What is arbitration?

Traditional litigation is often time consuming, costly, and public. Independent, neutral arbitration is an alternative legal route to resolving issues between consumers and companies outside the court system. It involves a third party decision-maker chosen by the parties to resolve their dispute.

When agreements are hard to reach and heading to court creates more problems than it solves, arbitration becomes an option. Similar to litigation, it is a legally binding process used to resolve disputes between two or more parties. The key difference being that arbitrators have more room within the law to make decisions that appease both (or all) sides.

Unique advantages over court actions

In addition to being more cost-effective, the arbitration process has a number of advantages over traditional court action. The following are a sample of these benefits:

• Privacy – Due to the confidential nature of arbitration hearings, these meetings are held privately. Members of the public, the media, and individuals not directly involved are not permitted to attend. Also, decisions made will not be directly accessible or published to those outside the process.
• Convenience – The parties control the times and places of the hearings to best suit their own schedules, the arbitrators, and witnesses.
• Choice of Arbitrator – Parties can select their own decision maker.
• Flexibility – The entire process can be segmented, streamlined, or simplified in response to the unique situation and circumstances.
• Efficiency – In general, arbitration can be heard before a traditional court proceeding. The arbitration process is also often shorter in length, preparation, and overall less demanding.
• Finality – Although the court has limited powers in arbitration, there is no right of appeal.

Is arbitration always appropriate?

Although this method is an appropriate choice for many situations, it may not be right right choice if parties:

• Want the ability to lodge appeals
• Do not want to follow a formal procedure to resolve their dispute
• Want the decision/outcome released publicly

Arbitration is less confrontational than going to court.

Sacramento arbitration lawyer

At the Fraser Law Firm, P.C. we recognize the high costs of litigation and the value of early resolution through arbitration. Because of this, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best and most effective representation. We have the knowledge, experience, and skills to successfully advocate on behalf of clients in the Sacramento area, commercial or consumer.

Every client matters. Whether your case is large or small, you will receive expert advice, guidance, and attention from an experienced attorney who will ensure that your rights are protected and that your case is handled professionally.