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.
If your case involves factors like privacy concerns, the need for a quicker resolution, or the desire to avoid a public jury trial, arbitration might be an ideal solution. However, if you're worried about the finality of the arbitrator's decision or the potential for bias, you might prefer the traditional court route.
An arbitration hearing is an informal legal proceeding held before a neutral court official called an arbitrator. Arbitration hearings are limited by rule to one hour and take place in the courthouse. The hearings are conducted in a serious but relaxed atmosphere, with the rules of evidence serving as a guide.
Limited Appeal Options: One of the most significant downsides of arbitration is that it offers very limited options for appeal. Once the arbitrator makes a decision, it's usually final unless there was a substantial legal oversight.
Settlement by agreement is the cheapest option and gives you the most control. Both mediation and arbitration are expensive, and arbitration is usually binding, so the ultimate decision is out of your control.
A party asks a court to compel or stay arbitration in North Carolina state court by filing a motion, whether or not there is a lawsuit already pending between the parties. If the application starts the action, the party files an initial motion. (N.C.G.S. § 1-569.5.)
Arbitration is often used to resolve disputes in labor and employment matters. For example, an employee might file a grievance with his or her employer, alleging that the employer has violated the terms of the employment agreement.
Cases that are $50,000 or less must go into arbitration. Examples include a personal injury case from an automobile accident, a disagreement about a contract, or some other type of case that doesn't involve criminal charges.
Parties will need to provide material evidence during the arbitration process. Some arbitrators may require that some types of evidence (such as invoices, pictures, and party correspondence) be presented in a specific format, such as in a binder and labeled in a certain order.