Arbitration is similar to going to court, but faster, cheaper and less complex than litigation. If the case settles, an arbitration will last around one year. If the case goes to hearing, an arbitration typically takes 16 months.
The hearing is conducted like a trial where the parties may be represented by an attorney, or they may represent themselves. The arbitrator or the arbitration panel will act in place of a judge and reach a decision, called an award, at the conclusion of the hearing.
The arbitration process provides more room for flexibility, including the timing of hearings and even the rules that govern the proceedings. Litigation is much less accommodating, with strict court schedules and little room for parties to tailor the process.
Disadvantages Questionable Fairness. Mandatory arbitration. Finality: No appeals. While this may be a positive if you find the arbitration decision favorable, you should be aware that if arbitration is binding, both sides give up their right to an appeal. Can be more expensive. Unpredictability: Unconventional outcomes.
An arbitration clause precludes your disgruntled client from filing suit against you or your company. Instead, the unhappy client must commence an arbitration action with the arbitrator specified in the agreement, often the American Arbitration Association (AAA).
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.
What does it mean to invoke arbitration? Either Party to a contract in which there is an Arbitration clause can either himself or through an authorised agent may invoke Arbitration so as to refer the dispute to arbitration, as per provisions of the arbitration clause.
Arbitration is a mandatory but non-binding informal hearing where a neutral arbitrator, or panel of arbitrators, is selected to hear the evidence in your case. Arbitrators are knowledgeable, impartial practicing attorneys or retired judges.
Claim arising from the contract to be resolved by binding arbitration. The Bain court started by noting that Illinois public policy favors arbitration and that binding arbitration provisions are generally valid.