Arbitration

A procedure in which a neutral third party (the arbitrator) reviews arguments from two sides of a conflict and makes a decision. Both sides have the opportunity to make presentations to the arbitrator which could include testimony from witnesses and the review of documents related to the case. Arbitration can be binding or non-binding. In non-binding arbitration, if a party is not satisfied with the arbitrator’s decision they have the option to seek another resolution to the matter such as going to trial. If the arbitration is binding, the decision of the arbitrator is final and usually cannot be challenged. Arbitration is one of many “alternative dispute resolution” procedures, i.e. alternatives to filing a lawsuit, or if a suit has already been filed, they are alternatives to trial.