An arbitration hearing is an informal legal proceeding held before a neutral court official called an arbitrator. Arbitration hearings are limited by rule to one hour and take place in the courthouse. The hearings are conducted in a serious but relaxed atmosphere, with the rules of evidence serving as a guide.
Arbitration agreements have become a common feature in employment contracts across the United States, including California. These agreements require employees to waive their right to sue their employers in court and instead resolve disputes through arbitration.
Arbitration is a fairer, faster, and less expensive way to resolve disputes than time-consuming and expensive litigation.
Never say anything to an arbitrator unless you are 100% sure it is correct. If you don't know the answer to a question, simply say, “I don't know the answer but will get it for you promptly.” Arbitrators respect lawyers who can zealously advocate for their clients and work out procedural issues with opposing counsel.
If you are in a contract containing an arbitration clause naming the AAA Rules, you may still be able to bring your dispute in small claims court instead of arbitration, as long as the claim falls within the jurisdiction requirements of the small claims court.
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.
A claimant will typically start arbitration by sending a document known as a “request for arbitration” or a “notice to arbitrate” to its opponent.
Notably, ing to Section 21 of the Arbitration Act, the arbitration proceedings commence when a notice invoking arbitration is sent by the Claimant to the other party within a maximum period of 3 years from the date of occurrence of cause of action.
Either Party to a contract in which there is an Arbitration clause can either himself or through an authorised agent may invoke Arbitration so as to refer the dispute to arbitration, as per provisions of the arbitration clause.
§ 1-569.26. Jurisdiction. (a) A court of this State having jurisdiction over the controversy and the parties to an agreement to arbitrate may enforce the agreement to arbitrate.