By signing a contract with a mandatory binding arbitration provision, the dealer or lender can seek to resolve any disputes about the contract with an arbitrator, who is usually chosen by the dealer or lender. The arbitrator decides the dispute instead of a court.
Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution. It allows both sides to present their case in an expedited fashion to a panel of three attorneys who render a decision that same day.
Arbitration is a process whereby the dispute between the vehicle manufacturer and the consumer is resolved by a neutral third party, an arbitrator. In California, many manufacturers offer a California state-certified arbitration program.
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.
A claimant will typically start arbitration by sending a document known as a “request for arbitration” or a “notice to arbitrate” to its opponent.
If the dealer breached the contract or misrepresented the condition of the vehicle, then you can take legal action. If you signed a binding arbitration agreement, then you must first try to resolve this with the arbitration.
Arbitration is actually pretty useful. It can make complaints that would take years happen rather quickly (comparatively). It is really up to you but arbitration is not a bad thing. The downside is you won't get a jury trial or something like that in the case of something really bad happening.
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.
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.
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.