If one party feels the decision is erroneous, there is very limited opportunity to correct it. There are many cases in which arbitration can become more expensive than court proceedings. Quality arbitrators can demand substantial fees that would not apply in court.
If neither party appeals the decision, it will be binding, like an order by a judge. However, a party unhappy with the arbitrator's decision can request a new trial before a judge.
The Request must: be written in English, French or Spanish (the official languages of the Centre) include the name and contact details of all parties (including e-mail, street address and telephone number) be signed and dated by the requesting party or its representative.
Arbitration might be the right choice for some cases. Limited discovery rights and costs might be useful when less is at stake. Arbitration might feel less adversarial, which could be an advantage where ongoing relationships are hoped to be preserved. Arbitration lends some confidentiality.
Under California law, you cannot be fired solely for refusing to sign an arbitration agreement. The California Labor Code provides strong protections for employees, ensuring that refusal to sign an arbitration agreement cannot be used as grounds for termination.
Arbitration agreements are a way that employers try to avoid being sued by employees for employment law violations, such as wage and hour violations or sexual harassment.
Arbitration might be the right choice for some cases. Limited discovery rights and costs might be useful when less is at stake. Arbitration might feel less adversarial, which could be an advantage where ongoing relationships are hoped to be preserved. Arbitration lends some confidentiality.
There are some benefits to arbitration if something goes wrong for you alone because it can be easier and faster to navigate than going to court. That being said, if you would prefer to have access to class action lawsuits, then opting out might be the better option for you.
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.