What is the term for an individual or institution with the authority to adjudicate disputes?

The term for an individual or institution with the authority to adjudicate disputes is "Tribunal." A tribunal is a specialized venue established to resolve particular types of legal disputes, often providing a structured process that includes hearings, evidence presentation, and decision-making. This term encompasses various forms of adjudicative bodies, including courts and administrative agencies, which have the legal power to settle disagreements, issue rulings, and enforce legal rights.

While mediators and arbitrators also play roles in dispute resolution, they serve different functions. A mediator facilitates negotiation and helps parties find a mutually agreeable solution but does not have the authority to make binding decisions. An arbitrator does have the authority to make binding decisions, but the term "tribunal" is broader and can refer to the entire body or system designed for adjudication, whereas an arbitrator is typically just one individual within that system. A commissioner refers to a person who holds a specific office or commission, often with regulatory or enforcement responsibilities, but may not have the same broad adjudicative powers as a tribunal.