Arbitration is a popular alternative dispute resolution method that businesses and individuals use to resolve disputes outside of the court system. One of the advantages of arbitration is that it can be faster than traditional litigation. However, how long it takes to get an arbitration award depends on several factors. In this article, we will examine these factors and provide you with some guidance on what to expect.
The Complexity of the Case
The complexity of the case is one of the primary factors that determine how long it takes to get an arbitration award. More complex cases generally take longer to resolve than simpler ones. Some of the factors that contribute to the complexity of a case include:
- The number of parties involved
- The amount of money at stake
- The complexity of the legal issues involved
- The amount of evidence that needs to be gathered and reviewed
If your case is relatively simple, it may only take a few months to get an arbitration award. However, if your case is more complex, it could take a year or more.
The Arbitrator’s Schedule
The arbitrator’s schedule is another factor that can affect how long it takes to get an arbitration award. If the arbitrator has a busy schedule, it may take longer for them to hear your case and issue a decision. Conversely, if the arbitrator has a lighter schedule, your case may be resolved more quickly.
Some of the ways in which an arbitrator’s schedule can impact your case include:
- The length of time between hearings
- The amount of time it takes to review evidence and make a decision
- The availability of dates for the hearing
In general, the more flexible you are with scheduling, the more likely it is that your case will be resolved quickly.
The Rules of the Arbitration Forum
The rules of the arbitration forum can also have an impact on how long it takes to get an arbitration award. Different forums have different rules regarding the length of time between hearings, the amount of evidence that can be submitted, and the deadlines for issuing an award.
Some of the ways in which the rules of the arbitration forum can impact your case include:
- The amount of time you have to submit evidence
- The length of time between hearings
- The amount of time the arbitrator has to issue a decision
If you choose an arbitration forum with more flexible rules, your case may be resolved more quickly.
The Conduct of the Parties
The conduct of the parties involved in the case can also affect how long it takes to get an arbitration award. If one or both parties engage in delaying tactics, such as requesting extensions or failing to comply with discovery requests, it can significantly prolong the arbitration process.
Some of the ways in which the conduct of the parties can impact your case include:
- The amount of time it takes to gather and review evidence
- The length of time between hearings
- The amount of time it takes to schedule the hearing
If both parties are cooperative and efficient, the arbitration process is likely to be much faster.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, there is no set timeline for getting an arbitration award. The length of time it takes depends on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the case, the arbitrator’s schedule, the rules of the arbitration forum, and the conduct of the parties. If you are considering using arbitration to resolve a dispute, it is important to understand these factors and to be realistic about how long the process may take.