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 is held in a private conference room rather than a public courtroom. The arbitrator begins by presenting the ground rules; then each party makes an opening statement, or their lawyers do. Next, each party presents its evidence and, if necessary, brings in witnesses to support its claims.
If one party feels the decision is erroneous, there is very limited opportunity to correct it. There are many cases in which arbitration can become more expensive than court proceedings. Quality arbitrators can demand substantial fees that would not apply in court.
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.
File online using the New York Insurance ADR Center online version of the Arbitration Request form (AAA Form AR1). Upload documents stored on your desktop. In addition, the successful submission of a case in ADR Center immediately generates a case number that will assist the filer with tracking the status of the 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.
There are some benefits to arbitration if something goes wrong for you alone because it can be easier and faster to navigate than going to court. That being said, if you would prefer to have access to class action lawsuits, then opting out might be the better option for you.
Courts vary in requiring “mutuality” of agreement to submit claims to arbitration. That is, some courts require, as a condition of enforcement, that the employer agree to submit any clams it has against the employee to arbitration as well as requiring the employee to do so with claims against the employer.
In forced arbitration, a company requires a consumer or employee to submit any dispute that may arise to binding arbitration as a condition of employment or buying a product or service. The employee or consumer is required to waive their right to sue, to participate in a class action lawsuit, or to appeal.
Every arbitrator must be and remain impartial and independent of the parties involved in the arbitration. Before appointment or confirmation, a prospective arbitrator shall sign a statement of acceptance, availability, impartiality and independence.