How long does arbitration take in Canada?

Asked by: Mrs. Carlee West  |  Last update: December 11, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (27 votes)

The process takes less than 90 days from the appointment of the arbitrator to the issuance of the written award, and there's a maximum of one hearing day.

How long does an arbitrator take to make a decision?

The arbitrator makes the decision

The arbitrator makes a decision within 30 days of the hearing. The decision is final and binding. Both the applicant and the respondent are mailed a written copy of the decision.

How long does the average 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 long do you wait for an arbitration date?

The time period of twenty one (21) days runs from the date the notification is sent by the Commission unless sent by registered mail in which case an additional seven (7) days must be allowed.

How long does binding arbitration take in Canada?

Binding arbitration is a hearing before an arbitrator acceptable to both parties in the dispute. The process is available to both private and public sectors. The hearing can take a few days.

How long does an arbitration take?

20 related questions found

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?

How much does arbitration cost in Canada?

Arbitrators' fees range from $250 to $800 per hour, plus applicable taxes depending on the arbitrator and the location of the arbitration. Many arbitrators have also set half and full-day rates. Please contact us to obtain rates, availability and conditions for a specific arbitrator.

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.

How much can you win in arbitration?

Consumers won some relief in 53.3% of the cases they filed and recovered an average of $19,255; business claimants won some relief in 83.6% of their cases and recovered an average of $20,648. The upfront cost of arbitration for consumer claimants in cases administered by the AAA appears to be quite low.

What is the timescale for arbitration?

You can usually expect to hear the arbitrator's decision within 45 days of the arbitrator closing the proceedings. However, this timescale is usually set by agreement between you, the other party and the arbitrator.

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 are the odds of winning in arbitration?

Odds of winning in employment arbitration

For example, an employee complained that she's been biased and unfair. For example, research by Colvin reveals employees win 36.4 percent of discrimination cases in federal court and 43.8 percent in state court, but only 21.4 percent in arbitration.

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 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 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.

Who pays arbitration fees?

Party arbitrator fees and expenses required by a pre-dispute arbitration agreement are to be paid entirely by the party selecting and retaining the party arbitrator.

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.

Does arbitration lead to settlement?

Arbitration is another route to settlement, but unlike the two options discussed above, where resolution is voluntary, it is typically binding. Arbitration is a private court. Like mediation, the parties must voluntarily agree to enter into arbitration; you cannot be forced into arbitration.

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 time for 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 a major disadvantage of arbitration?

Arbitration hearings are generally held in private which may be a positive to many. However, it is possible that this lack of transparency makes the process more likely to be biased, which may be problematic because arbitration decisions are also infrequently reviewed by the courts.

What happens if you refuse arbitration?

Section 4 of the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA) says "a party aggrieved by the alleged failure, neglect or refusal of another to arbitrate under a written agreement for arbitration may petition any U.S. district court ... for an order directing that such arbitration proceed in the manner provided for in such agreement."

Is it better to go to court or arbitration?

While arbitration offers advantages such as cost-efficiency, speed, and privacy, litigation provides opportunities to set legal precedents and compel uncooperative parties. To make the right choice, consider the unique circumstances of each case and the preferences of your clients.

How does arbitration work in Canada?

Unless both sides have chosen to present their arguments in writing only, at the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator will ask the parties to lay out their case, will listen to both sides and may ask either side questions. They will then consider all evidence and testimony and make a legally binding decision.

Is it worth going to arbitration?

These advantages may be defined by two primary benefits: Faster resolution and reduced costs. Arbitration results are much more quickly obtained than courtroom litigation, since discovery rights are tightly constricted, trials are much shorter, and there is no often no right to an appeal.