Arbitration is less formal than going to court, and you may represent yourself. However, you should keep in mind that arbitration is a legal proceeding that results in an award that is generally final and binding. Because your legal rights are involved, you may choose to consult with and be represented by an attorney.
In simple terms, arbitration is the out-of-court resolution of a disagreement between two commercial parties decided by an impartial third party, the arbitrator.
Arbitration is an ADR process where the parties present arguments and evidence to an independent third party, the arbitrator, who makes a determination. Arbitration is particularly useful where the subject matter is highly technical, or where the parties seek greater confidentiality than in an open court.
Arguments should flow easily from the relevant facts and applicable law. Avoid exaggerating the strengths of your case as well as disparaging the opposing side. Remember that professionalism and credibility are critical to persuasiveness.
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.
The arbitrator listens to both sides, looks at the evidence you've sent in and decides what the outcome should be. In some cases, the arbitrator may choose to have several meetings with you both. When the arbitrator makes a decision, this is called an award and it's legally binding.
A claimant will typically start arbitration by sending a document known as a “request for arbitration” or a “notice to arbitrate” to its opponent.
After the opening statement, the claimants present evidence, that is, the details of their case. For example, they present witnesses and introduce any relevant documents. If the arbitrators did not swear a witness in at the beginning of a hearing, they will administer the oath before that person testifies.
An orderly presentation of one's own witnesses, with an outline of the case at hand to make certain that every point is made in the right order, and perhaps a summary of the case presented to the arbitrator in typewritten form to make doubly certain that nothing is forgotten when the time comes to write the decision, ...
But first, let's get some context. What is arbitration? ... #1: Understand the arbitration agreement deeply. #2: Understand the applicable rules. #3: Conduct preliminary research and gather information. #4: Know your arbitrator. #5: Prepare your client. #6: Draft the opening statement. #7: Manage the hearing day.