Under most arbitration rules, an Answer or Response to a Request for Arbitration must include the respondent's name and contact details, the name and contact details of its representative, its preliminary comments on the dispute, its response to the relief sought by the claimant, its observations and proposals ...
Arbitration is a fairer, faster, and less expensive way to resolve disputes than time-consuming and expensive litigation.
If you value the ability to sue and have your case heard in court, opting out may be the right choice. However, if you prefer a potentially quicker and less costly resolution process, staying in the arbitration program might be more beneficial.
The final decision on whether or not to initial an arbitration provision depends upon your view of the advantages and disadvantages of arbitration. There is no “right” answer. You need to consider what will be important to you if a dispute arises.
You have a difficult decision to make, although it may not matter whether you sign the “agreement” or not. If you continue to work after you are informed that a forced arbitration agreement governs your employment, you may be bound by it, even if you refuse to sign it.
The Risks of Refusing to Sign Usually, an employer can rescind an employment offer if a prospective employee refuses to sign the arbitration agreement. And an employer can fire an at-will employee who refuses to sign one. Therefore, declining to sign the agreement could jeopardize your job.
You can always agree to arbitration later if your lawyer advises you it's a good choice in the particular situation you find yourself in. There's no benefit to you in doing so months or years ahead of time.
There are typically seven stages of the arbitration process: Claimant Files a Claim. Respondent Submits Answer. Parties Select Arbitrators. Parties Attend Initial Prehearing Conference. Parties Exchange Discovery. Parties Attend Hearings. Arbitrators Deliberate and Render Award.
Always get straight to the merits without berating the other side or whining about how badly it has treated you. Another threat to your credibility is the “kitchen sink” arbitration demand or a response that includes numerous claims or defenses that have little chance of succeeding.
Arguments should flow easily from the relevant facts and applicable law. Avoid exaggerating the strengths of your case as well as disparaging the opposing side. Remember that professionalism and credibility are critical to persuasiveness.