Parties meet with a mediator and work toward agreement. If parties agree, both parties sign a stipulation and the Commission issues an order approving their agreement. If the parties do not agree, the matter is scheduled for Formal Hearing.
Under binding arbitration, the parties agree to accept the arbitrator's decision as final, limiting their right to seek resolution of the dispute by a court.
What is arbitration? Arbitration is probably the best-known form of alternative dispute resolution, and is a formal, binding process where the dispute is resolved by the decision of a nominated third party, the arbitrator.
There are typically six stages of the mediation process: A Party Shows Interest or Initiates a Straight-in Mediation. Parties Agree to Mediate. Parties Select the Mediator and Schedule the Mediation Date. Parties Submit Pre-Mediation Submissions. Parties, Counsel and Mediator Attend Mediation Session.
These papers can be served by: Mailing them to the last known address provided. Handing them to the person. Emailing them to the most recent email address provided.
The primary disadvantage of mediation is that it cannot always ensure an outcome that is favorable to both parties. Because the mediator is not an impartial decision-maker, it can be difficult to enforce the terms of an agreement in the event that one or both parties do not comply with the terms they have agreed to.
The process can be slow and lengthy, with most progress after lunch near the end of the day. The mediator will not pick a side, so expect to compromise, as most cases settle, from 80-92 percent by some estimates.
Most mediation sessions typically run 3-4 hours but may be more or less depending on the issues involved. The fees are usually split among the parties unless ordered or arranged otherwise.
Before the arbitration hearing each side should: organize their arguments; identify and organize documentary evidence and testimony that supports the arguments; and make sure they have complied with CRC 3.820 prohibiting ex parte communication with the arbitrator.
Much like the opening statement in a trial, your arbitration statement should lay out what the “evidence” – the written material – will show regarding the proper credit on the project. The Arbitration Statement is not established fact, just your assessment of the material.