Opting out of the arbitration agreement isn't damaging to you. You can always do arbitration if you would prefer that, although if you'd like to join class actions or sue the judge will throw out your case if you are still in this agreement.
All parties must agree to arbitration and complete and sign DWC Form-044, Election to Engage in Arbitration. There is a deadline. The completed form must be filed with DWC by the 20th day after the benefit review conference.
Arbitration might be the right choice for some cases. Limited discovery rights and costs might be useful when less is at stake. Arbitration might feel less adversarial, which could be an advantage where ongoing relationships are hoped to be preserved. Arbitration lends some confidentiality.
The arbitration process can only be followed if the parties agree to such process. An unwilling party cannot be forced to participate in the arbitration process, unless the law provides for such arbitration, for example, labour disputes.
The arbitrator's decision can give parties a realistic idea of the outcome of their case. If neither party appeals the decision, it will be binding, like an order by a judge. However, a party unhappy with the arbitrator's decision can request a new trial before a judge.
Validity of Arbitration Agreements Under Section 171.001 of the TAA, written agreements to arbitrate are generally valid and enforceable in Texas. This section ensures that, barring any specific legal exceptions, parties bound by a written agreement to arbitrate must settle their disputes outside of court.
This depends on the facts of your job, how the “agreement” is presented, and the court jurisdiction that controls your situation. If you do sign it, you will probably be stuck with arbitration as the only method of legal redress for any job-related problems.
Arbitration agreements are a way that employers try to avoid being sued by employees for employment law violations, such as wage and hour violations or sexual harassment.
If you already have claims against your employer when you are asked to sign the agreement, you should absolutely talk to a lawyer before signing. After all, an arbitration agreement gives up your right to sue in court, and that right is much more valuable when you have an actual claim to make against your employer.
Under Section 171.001 of the TAA, written agreements to arbitrate are generally valid and enforceable in Texas.