To give you an idea of the process that arbitration typically involves, the American Arbitration Association describes artibtration as having five main steps: Filing and initiation. Arbitrator selection. Preliminary hearing. Information exchange and preparation. Hearings. Post hearing submissions. Award.
As a general rule you should opt out of arbitration when you sign any agreement with a company.
Always get straight to the merits without berating the other side or whining about how badly it has treated you. Another threat to your credibility is the “kitchen sink” arbitration demand or a response that includes numerous claims or defenses that have little chance of succeeding.
Witnesses are usually asked to swear or affirm to the truthfulness of their testimony. After a witness has given direct testimony, the other side has the opportunity to cross examine the witness. After all those witnesses have testified, then the union puts on their case. You are expected to be a witness.
Much like the opening statement in a trial, your arbitration statement should lay out what the “evidence” – the written material – will show regarding the proper credit on the project. The Arbitration Statement is not established fact, just your assessment of the material.
A form of ADR, arbitration involves both parties presenting their case to a neutral third party (an arbitrator) who considers the issues and gives their decision (called an award). An arbitrator has the power to make a range of awards depending on the circumstances of the case. Awards may include: Monetary compensation.
How to prepare and present a labor arbitration case Conduct a comprehensive investigation. Collect relevant documents. Study the contract to find clauses that directly or indirectly affect the dispute. Talk to anyone who might be able to help provide a full picture of the case, providing a strong factual foundation.
Parties will need to provide material evidence during the arbitration process. Some arbitrators may require that some types of evidence (such as invoices, pictures, and party correspondence) be presented in a specific format, such as in a binder and labeled in a certain order.
(1) An agreement contained in a record to submit to arbitration any existing or subsequent controversy arising between the parties to the agreement is valid, enforceable, and irrevocable except on a ground that exists at law or in equity for the revocation of a contract.
Arbitration is the most commonly used method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and you'll find an arbitration clause in the fine print of all kinds of contracts these days.