Arbitration involves an impartial person makes a decision on a dispute.  It has long been used in the commercial world, and is a fairly common way of dealing with employment disputes.  You can also go to arbitration for consumer and family issues, (although not to decide parenting or care of children).

As with other forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), the process is voluntary, but in most cases the decision of the arbitrator is legally binding.  This means you will not be able to take court action, other than to enforce an award.

Arbitration is usually much faster and less expensive than going to court and the parties involved can choose their arbitrator, so you can pick someone with special skills and expertise.

Unlike court, arbitration decisions are confidential, not public, and will be made based on written evidence, which your solicitor can help you present. Arbitrators can ask questions, but there is no cross examination by barristers as there is in court.  In many cases you may not even meet the arbitrator.

Our experts will be able to advise you as to whether your case is suitable for arbitration and how to go about it.