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.
The average arbitration hearing discovery process lasts about two months. Then, the arbitration hearing phase will only take one or two weeks, on average. So, the duration of the entire arbitration process is about three months. But sometimes mandatory arbitration clause arbitral proceedings do not take that long.
Never say anything to an arbitrator unless you are 100% sure it is correct. If you don't know the answer to a question, simply say, “I don't know the answer but will get it for you promptly.” Arbitrators respect lawyers who can zealously advocate for their clients and work out procedural issues with opposing counsel.
Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution. It allows both sides to present their case in an expedited fashion to a panel of three attorneys who render a decision that same day. 2.
If you lose the case, it's very hard to challenge a decision the arbitrator has made. You can't appeal if you simply disagree with the decision. If you think the case wasn't handled properly, you should get advice about what to do next. You may be able to make an appeal to court on a point of law.
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.
After the opening statement, the claimants present evidence, that is, the details of their case. For example, they present witnesses and introduce any relevant documents. If the arbitrators did not swear a witness in at the beginning of a hearing, they will administer the oath before that person testifies.
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.
Outline a concise factual background and then move on to a discussion of the issues at the heart of the case. Your arguments should flow easily from the relevant facts and applicable law. And, by all means, avoid exaggeration of the strengths of your case as well as disparagement of the opposing side.