Always get straight to the merits without berating the other side or whining about how badly it has treated you. Another threat to your credibility is the “kitchen sink” arbitration demand or a response that includes numerous claims or defenses that have little chance of succeeding.
Settlement by agreement is the cheapest option and gives you the most control. Both mediation and arbitration are expensive, and arbitration is usually binding, so the ultimate decision is out of your control.
A clause that requires arbitration is known as a mandatory arbitration clause. Today's question is: Are such clauses enforceable in Illinois? The short answer is yes, and the long answer doesn't really change much.
At the arbitration hearing, the parties present their case to the arbitration panel and the arbitrators make a monetary award based on the evidence. The Illinois Code of Civil Procedure, Illinois Supreme Court Rules and the established rules of evidence all apply in arbitration hearings.
Arbitration is a mandatory but non-binding informal hearing where a neutral arbitrator, or panel of arbitrators, is selected to hear the evidence in your case. Arbitrators are knowledgeable, impartial practicing attorneys or retired judges.
Necessary Elements Details of the Parties. Details of the relationship between the parties. Demand for Arbitration. The mention of agreement/contract (if any). The mention of already existing arbitration agreement between the parties pursuant to which the concerned notice of arbitration has been sent (if any).
The Scope of the Clause. This section of the clause is critical; it sets the boundaries for which disputes the tribunal is authorised to determine. Choice of Rules. The Number of Arbitrators. Appointing Authority. Choice of Venue. The language of the proceedings. Finality. Exclusion of the right of appeal.
Arbitration is a dispute resolution mechanism agreed on by parties, which involves the appointment of one or more ar- bitrators to preside over and to make a final decision on a dispute between two or more parties – instead of approaching a court of law to resolve the dispute.
Drafting the “perfect” arbitration agreement Clear and precise language. Clarity and brevity are key to avoiding an unenforceable arbitration clause and the costs and delays that follow. Scope. Seat of arbitration. Governing law. Arbitral Rules. Language. Arbitrators. Other common issues.