How long does an arbitration meeting last?

Asked by: Prof. Stacey Medhurst  |  Last update: October 14, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (72 votes)

How long should the arbitration session take? Justice Court arbitrations and mediations are typically scheduled to last an hour and a half. That amount of time is usually sufficient to allow each side to present their case or defense, identify and question witnesses, and offer closing statements.

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.

What is the average time for arbitration?

But still, the simple difference in time to resolution is almost startling. Trials in court average over two years. Arbitrations average under a year. Anyone who has done litigation for a while knows that the longer a case lasts, the more you spend.

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.

What is the time period for arbitration?

Section 29A(4) of the Arbitration Act provides that if the award is not issued within the specified period of 12 months or a further extended period of six months, then the mandate of the arbitrator(s) would be terminated subject to further extension by the Civil Court or the relevant High Court (“HC”).

How Long Does Arbitration Take? - CountyOffice.org

19 related questions found

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 for arbitration?

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 long do arbitration proceedings take?

After everyone has presented their case, the tribunal will consider the case and make an award. The arbitrator may make this decision in a day, or it could take considerably longer depending on the complexity of the issues involved. Ideally, the arbitrator should deliver the award within six months.

What to expect in an arbitration hearing?

An arbitration hearing is conducted by a panel of 3 arbitrators and is similar to a bench trial. At the arbitration hearing, the panel will listen to the facts, evidence, and law and at the end of the hearing will deliberate on an award.

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.

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.

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.

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 is the time frame for arbitration?

However, when a conciliation matter remains unresolved the party can refer the matter to arbitration. This is a 90-day process. It is important to note that the conciliation and arbitration processes need to be heard within 120 days.

How do you win an arbitration hearing?

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.

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).

How should I dress for an arbitration hearing?

For men, opt for a suit and tie or a button-down shirt; anything that falls under business attire is a good option. Women can choose a business-appropriate dress, skirt, or pantsuit. Avoid flashy colors or overly casual attire.

Who goes first in arbitration?

In most cases, the party that started the arbitration initially by filing a claim will present their case first and the opposing party will then have an opportunity to present their defense, but the arbitrator will ultimately decide the order.

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 are two disadvantages of arbitration?

If one party feels the decision is erroneous, there is very limited opportunity to correct it. There are many cases in which arbitration can become more expensive than court proceedings. Quality arbitrators can demand substantial fees that would not apply in court.

Can you sue after losing arbitration?

During binding arbitration, the panel's decision is the last word. If your case is handled through regular arbitration, you have the right to appeal your case and take your case to court.

How long do arbitration hearings last?

The average arbitration hearing discovery process lasts about two months. Then, the arbitration hearing phase will only take one or two weeks, on average. So, the duration of the entire arbitration process is about three months. But sometimes mandatory arbitration clause arbitral proceedings do not take that long.

How much does arbitration cost?

Your Arbitrator

This person serves as a neutral third party who will ultimately make a binding or non-binding decision in your case. Private arbitrators in California can charge anywhere from $200 to $1,000 per hour.

Can you settle before arbitration?

Can I settle my dispute prior to the arbitration hearing? Yes, you may. You may settle your dispute at any time before the arbitrator issues the award. If you have settled, or believe you are close to settling your dispute, notify your Case Administrator.