Arbitration

For parties that seek a clear ruling and award based on an impartial hearing of both their claims.

Arbitration is a way to resolve disputes outside of the court system, while still being legally binding and, if required, enforceable by the courts. A hearing is conducted, parties and their lawyers are present, and evidence may be presented. With arbitration, the adjudicator, or panel of adjudicators, is chosen by the parties.

Depending on the jurisdiction, parties may voluntarily enter arbitration, it may be non-voluntarily mandated by a contract (commercial, consumer or employment), or a statute or legislation may force arbitration.

Advantages

  • Parties agree on the arbitrator(s).
  • Binding.
  • Confidential. (Disputes determined by courts become available for public review.)
  • Usually vastly quicker to schedule than a court date.
  • Often take less time than court proceedings.
  • Generally far less expensive than courts.
  • Less formal than court.
  • Flexible scheduling.