How long can a case be in arbitration?

Asked by: Prof. Estella Hudson  |  Last update: January 23, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (31 votes)

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.

What is the average length of arbitration?

Median Duration of International Arbitration

The median durations above range from 11.7 months to 22 months. The average of the median durations is about 15 months. Note the figures above do not account for small differences in calculation methodologies.

What is the maximum time for arbitration?

The Rules. The time limit within which the arbitrator must render his award is fixed at six months.

What is the timescale for arbitration?

Simplified Arbitration cases—which are also known as “paper” cases—involve disputes of $50,000 or less. On average, parties who file Simplified cases get a decision within eight months from the date they file their case.

How long do arbitration hearings usually last?

Most arbitrations take about three hours. If you think your case will take more than five hours, let the arbitrator know before the arbitration starts.

How long does arbitration take?

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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 is the timeline of arbitration?

12 months - from the date the tribunal enters upon reference. Extendable by 6 months, i.e. to 18 months by mutual consent of the parties. After the expiry of this 12 or 18 month period, as the case may be, parties have to approach the Court for extension of time. Time limit for the arbitral tribunal to pass an award.

What is the time frame for arbitration?

Section 29A of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 (“Act”), inserted vide theAmending Act of 2015 (w.e.f. 23.10. 2015), was meant to introduce time limit for completion of arbitration proceedings. It prescribed a statutory period of 12 (twelve) months from the date the arbitral tribunal enters upon reference.

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.

How long does it take to get a settlement after arbitration?

After the briefing is complete, the arbitrator issues a written decision, usually 30-90 days after receipt of the last brief. In all, it may take up to six months from the conclusion of the hearing until the issuance of a decision. unDer What CirCumstanCes Will the Case be settleD?

Can you still sue after arbitration?

In some instances, you may be able to sue if you signed a valid arbitration agreement. While courts generally favor arbitration agreements, they will allow you to file a lawsuit if either you didn't understand your rights or your claims fall outside the arbitration provision's scope.

Why is arbitration taking so long?

If there are disagreements about how information is exchanged, this process may take longer. The complexity of the case and the timelines the arbitrator sets will often impact the time needed in this phase.

What is the limitation period for arbitration?

It provides for a period of limitation of three years from the date when the right to apply accrues. Therefore, the Supreme Court has held that the period of limitation for application for appointment of an arbitrator under Section 11 shall be three years from the date when the right to apply accrues.

Is it better to settle or go to arbitration?

In most cases, arbitration tends to be more cost-effective. While arbitrator's fees can be significant, the overall expenses are generally lower because of limited discovery and quicker resolution.

What is the success rate of arbitration?

Across the entire country, just 80 employees won a monetary award through forced arbitration in 2022, making for a win rate of just 1.9%.

Does arbitration hold up in court?

Recently, the Supreme Court has held arbitration agreements to be valid in many consumer contracts. The Court opined that the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) establishes liberal federal policy favoring arbitration agreements, and such agreements may only be overridden when there is a contrary Congressional command.

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 if one party refuses arbitration?

Some potential consequences may include: Breach of Contract: If arbitration is a contractual requirement and one party refuses to participate, they may be in breach of the contract. The non-complying party may be held liable for damages resulting from the breach.

What if you can't afford arbitration?

After a party is compelled into arbitration by court order and is unable to pay the arbitrator fees, upon return to court, cases have held the matter can proceed in trial and/or the other party can pay the arbitrator fees.

How many days does arbitration take?

The arbitrator will decide the case within 10 days of the hearing. The arbitrator will send a copy of the award to the parties and the original to the Arbitration Administrator with a proof of service attached. If the case is very complicated, the Court may give the arbitrator 20 days more to decide your case.

Is arbitration quicker than court?

Arbitration is widely seen as faster (74%), simpler (63%), and cheaper (51%) than going to court. somewhat likely to use arbitration again. Most participants are very satisfied with the arbitrators' performance, the confidentiality of the process and its length.

How to stop arbitration proceedings?

(1) The arbitral proceedings shall be terminated by the final arbitral award or by an order of the arbitral tribunal under sub-section (2). (c) the arbitral tribunal finds that the continuation of the proceedings has for any other reason become unnecessary or impossible.

What comes after arbitration?

The Circuit Clerk will mail the Award of Arbitrators and a Notice of Award to all parties. The Notice of Award will provide the next court date for the case. On that status date, if no rejection is filed, a party must move for entry of judgment on the award or enter a dismissal order.

How long is the arbitration process?

However, when a conciliation matter remains unresolved the party can refer the matter to arbitration. This is a 90-day process.

Is arbitration the last step?

While parties are not required to have an attorney to participate in arbitration, arbitration is a final, legally-binding process that may impact a party's rights. As such, parties may want to consider consulting an attorney at any time before, during, or after the arbitration.