Early Neutral Evaluation is a preliminary assessment of facts, evidence or legal merits by a neutral evaluator. It is not binding, but provides an unbiased evaluation of relative positions as well as guidance as to the likely outcome if the case were to be heard in court.
The parties appoint an independent person who expresses an opinion on the merits of issues specified by the parties. The process is designed to serve as a basis for further and fuller negotiations or, at least, to help parties avoid unnecessary stages in litigation.