The answer is that a typical statute of limitations probably does not apply to an arbitration. I say "probably" because there is a split of authority.In California, contractual arbitral awards can be enforced under the. California Arbitration Act (CAA) (Cal. Civ. Proc. For a written contract, you generally must file your lawsuit within 4 years of when the agreement is broken. This article provides a step-by-step approach to getting needed discovery for California arbitrations. The Federal Arbitration Act has no such exception. California's Courts of Appeal recently issued guidance on both points. My issue issue is primarily a breach of contract dispute that touches on the issue of film copyrights. Submit to arbitration and begin the process to have an evidentiary hearing before a retired Judge or Attorney.