Arbitration

Our Arbitration Services

It is no secret that litigation can be expensive. In addition, it can take months or even more than a year for your case to make it to trial. The outcome of your case is then dependent upon a jury who may not fully understand the evidence or the legal issues involved. After months of waiting and considerable expense, you still may not obtain the result you were hoping for. Litigation can be a high-stakes game for people who need results sooner rather than later. If you are dreading the thought of going to trial for these reasons, contact Middle Georgia Mediation to discuss whether arbitration is an option for you.

What is Arbitration?

Arbitration is a quasi-judicial form of alternative dispute resolution that allows the parties to potentially avoid litigation. Your dispute is submitted to either a single arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators who will hear your case. The process is more formal than mediation and somewhat similar to a court hearing. Both parties will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements, introduce evidence, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and be represented by counsel. If there is an arbitration panel, each party may get to choose one or more of the arbitrators.

Similar to mediation, arbitration allows the parties to resolve their dispute more quickly and less expensively than litigation. Unlike mediation, however, the arbitrator or arbitration panel will rule on the case and issue a decision. Arbitrators are typically lawyers or retired judges, which means that they have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle complex cases. As a result, the outcome of your case is likely to be very similar to what may be achieved through litigation.

Voluntary vs. Mandatory and Binding vs. Non-Binding Arbitration

Arbitration clauses are becoming increasingly common in contracts and other agreements. These clauses may require you to go to arbitration prior to or in lieu of litigation.

Mandatory arbitration is when you are required to go to arbitration. It can either be binding or non-binding. If it is binding, you are legally obligated to comply with the outcome of the arbitration. In other words, you cannot file a lawsuit if you are unhappy with the outcome of your arbitration. On the other hand, you do not lose your right to go to court if the arbitration is non-binding. If your dispute is arising under a contract that requires arbitration, you need to understand whether it is binding or non-binding from the outset.

Voluntary arbitration is when the parties both voluntarily agree to participate in the arbitration. The parties can subsequently agree that the arbitration is binding or non-binding.

You may be required to proceed to arbitration and you may be legally obligated to comply with the outcome. For these reasons, it is vital that you work with an arbitrator who has the necessary qualifications to handle your case.

Contact Middle Georgia Mediation to Discuss Your Arbitration Today

If you are considering arbitration, it is critical to find someone who can help you navigate the process to a successful resolution. At Middle Georgia Mediation, we have the knowledge and experience you need. Contact us today via phone or email to discuss your case and how we can help.