Arbitration is similar to going to court, but faster, cheaper and less complex than litigation. If the case settles, an arbitration will last around one year.Arbitration is an alternative to court proceedings to resolve a dispute. In court, both sides have lawyers and present cases to a jury that decides the matter. Arbitration is a mechanism for resolving disputes between investors and brokers, or between brokers. On this page you will learn how to file an arbitration claim, how to request mediation, and what documents are required for each process.