How do you present a case in arbitration?

Asked by: Alex Volkman  |  Last update: October 10, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (69 votes)

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, ...

How do you present evidence in arbitration?

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.

What not to say during arbitration?

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.

What are the 5 steps of arbitration?

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.

What is an example of an arbitration case?

By signing a contract with an arbitration clause, parties agree to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator. For example, Company A contracts to purchase inventory parts from Company B, and the contract includes an arbitration clause. The parts are later found to be faulty, causing Company A to lose revenue.

Presenting your Case in Arbitration

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How do you write an arbitration statement?

Your letter of arbitration should be concise, professional, and factual. Follow the standard business letter format, including your name and contact information at the top. Ensure that your writing is clear, and avoid using jargon or technical terms that may not be familiar to the reader.

What happens in an arbitration case?

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.

Who usually wins in arbitration?

An empirical study conducted by economic firm ndp | analytics and released by ILR shows that employees and consumers win more money, more often, and more quickly in arbitration than in a lawsuit. Employees were more likely to win in arbitration (almost 38 percent) than in a lawsuit (almost 11 percent).

What are two disadvantages of arbitration?

Cons:
  • Limited Appeal Options: One of the most significant downsides of arbitration is that it offers very limited options for appeal. ...
  • Potentially Less Oversight: The informal nature of the arbitration process could lead to less regulatory oversight, making it crucial to choose a reputable arbitrator.

How do you initiate arbitration?

A claimant will typically start arbitration by sending a document known as a “request for arbitration” or a “notice to arbitrate” to its opponent.

How to prepare for an arbitration case?

But first, let's get some context.
  1. What is arbitration? ...
  2. #1: Understand the arbitration agreement deeply. ...
  3. #2: Understand the applicable rules. ...
  4. #3: Conduct preliminary research and gather information. ...
  5. #4: Know your arbitrator. ...
  6. #5: Prepare your client. ...
  7. #6: Draft the opening statement. ...
  8. #7: Manage the hearing day.

What happens if you lose in arbitration?

What Happens If You Lose in Arbitration? Losing in arbitration means the arbitrator's decision goes against you and the arbitrator may issue an award. This could involve paying money damages, returning property, paying the other party's arbitration or legal fees, or taking some other action.

What is the biggest problem of arbitration?

Disadvantages
  • Questionable Fairness. Mandatory arbitration. ...
  • Finality: No appeals. While this may be a positive if you find the arbitration decision favorable, you should be aware that if arbitration is binding, both sides give up their right to an appeal. ...
  • Can be more expensive. ...
  • Unpredictability: Unconventional outcomes.

How to win an arbitration case?

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.

Who pays for arbitration?

The parties each pay their own costs to conduct their case. Parties will likely not encounter all of the above costs on every case, and the amount of these costs, and which party must pay them, is different depending on the case and the rules that apply.

Who has the burden of proof in arbitration?

24(1) of the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules is an exception and provides: “Each party shall have the burden of proving the facts relied on to support his claim or defense.” This burden is thus of critical importance. The arbitrator should apply it unless he is functioning as an amiable compositeur.

Is it better to settle or go to arbitration?

An arbitration hearing is far more private. It only involves you, the other party, and a few neutral third parties. Arbitration is the better choice if your case has anything to do with intellectual property, trade secrets, or other confidential information.

What matters are not allowed in arbitration?

1 of Act 49 of 1996.] A reference to arbitration shall not be permissible in respect of- (a) any matrimonial cause or any matter incidental to any such cause; or (b) any matter relating to status.

How long does arbitration take?

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. If the case goes to hearing, an arbitration typically takes 16 months.

How to present an arbitration case?

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, ...

What is better, mediation or arbitration?

More than 80 percent of mediations result in a settlement, and in most cases the process is significantly faster and less costly than arbitration.

How to defend yourself in arbitration?

In arbitration, you don't have to have a lawyer represent you (unless state law requires it), but it's important to know that arbitration is a final and binding process that can affect your rights. So, if you are considering representing yourself, it's a good idea to talk to a lawyer.

Are both parties present during arbitration?

Parties must attend the arbitration hearing, and may be represented by an attorney. The arbitration hearing may proceed and an award issued in the absence of a party who, after due notice, fails to be present or to obtain a continuance.

What damages are awarded in arbitration?

In determining damages, arbitration tribunals should be able to ascertain an appropriate level of damages based on such evidence as the parties' negotiations, their prior course of dealing and the course of performance under the contract, as well as the extent to which the respondent knew and understood the ...

What voids an arbitration?

As a general rule, only strong evidence of duress or fraud are sufficient to invalidate an arbitration clause. It is worth noting that many state courts will to set aside arbitration agreements where the parties have vastly disparate bargaining power (such as between employers and employees).