Arbitration

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that is rather common in Washington state. The process involves having a neutral third-party arbitrator hear and decide a case, rather than going through the traditional court system.

There are several benefits to arbitration. For one, it is often quicker and less expensive than going to court. This is because the arbitration process is typically more streamlined and less formal than a court case. Additionally, arbitration can offer more privacy to litigants than the court room, as the proceedings are not open to the public.

Another benefit of arbitration is that it allows for the parties to have their case decided by someone with specialized expertise in a certain field. For example, if a case involves a dispute over a construction project, an arbitrator with experience in construction law can be appointed to hear the case. This can lead to a more fair and accurate decision, as the arbitrator has a deeper understanding of the relevant laws and industry practices.

There are also some drawbacks to arbitration. One concern is that the arbitration process may not be as fair to the individual as the court system. Arbitrators are typically neutral, but at times their backgrounds and legal experience can influence their decisions. Additionally, arbitration awards can be difficult to appeal, and the discovery process (the process of obtaining evidence) may be more limited in arbitration than in court.

Despite these concerns, arbitration is a prevalent form of dispute resolution in Washington state. It is important to note that if you are considering using arbitration to resolve a dispute, it is important to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of the process, and to have a clear understanding of the rules and procedures involved. As always, it's recommended to seek legal advice before entering into any arbitration agreement.