As a general rule, only strong evidence of duress or fraud are sufficient to invalidate an arbitration clause.
However, if a plaintiff unwittingly entered into an arbitration agreement due to coercion or deception, or if the terms of the arbitration agreement undermine the plaintiff's ability to vindicate their rights, courts can and sometimes do step in and invalidate the contract.
The brief should include identification of the parties, a concise description of the facts, and applicable case law and statutes. The briefs should be submitted to the arbitrator at least 2 days prior to the arbitration hearing.
How to Protect Yourself Against Forced Arbitration Look for arbitration language. Information regarding forced arbitration is usually buried in the company's terms of use or legal terms and conditions. Opt-out when you can. Submit official complaints. Negotiating using the legal leverage you have.
The arbitration agreement must be contained in either a written document signed (including every adequate form of electronic signature) by the parties or in an exchange of letters, faxes, e-mails, or other forms of communication exchanged between the parties that provides proof of the existence of the agreement.
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.)
Unconscionability requires a showing of both a procedural and substantive defect in the document for the agreement to be rendered unenforceable by the court. Procedural unconscionability results from oppression or unfair surprise to one party caused by unequal bargaining power.
If the arbitration agreement is claimed to be invalid based on reasons such as error, fraud, or threat, the validity of the arbitration agreement will be governed by the law chosen by the parties, and in the absence of a choice of law, the law of the place of arbitration applied.
In some instances, you may be able to sue if you signed a valid arbitration agreement. While courts generally favor arbitration agreements, they will allow you to file a lawsuit if either you didn't understand your rights or your claims fall outside the arbitration provision's scope.
An arbitration agreement can be voided if a party is deceived, intimidated or coerced during the execution of the agreement. Just don't sign it and let it do it automatically. If you really want to sue it won't be hard to claim any of the above.