Arbitration

Arbitration is an easier and lower-cost alternative to court (typically, but not in every case). Highly qualified lawyers and executives with specific industry knowledge act as arbitrators, similar to small claims court often using attorneys as part-time judges. When parties agree to arbitrate either prior to a dispute as a term of their contract or after a dispute arises by agreeing to submit to arbitration, the parties agree not to take the dispute to court, but rather participate in less formal arbitration proceedings. Awards issued by NAA arbitrators can be confirmed and enforced upon in a court of competent jurisdiction if one party to the dispute does not perform in accordance with the judgement.

NAA cases are often settled prior to the arbitrator’s decision—and nearly half of those cases incur no arbitrator compensation.

Mediation

Mediation is an informal negotiation assisted by an impartial third party (the NAA mediator). This process encourages disputing parties to craft their own solutions—enhancing the likelihood of continuing the business or familial relationship. Mediation is often a productive step prior to arbitration, as it serves to “lower the temperature” and facilitate constructive dialogue to reach mutually agreeable settlements. Terms of a successful mediation can be incorporated into a binding mediation agreement that can be enforced through later arbitration or a court order if one party defaults on their post-mediation responsibilities.

Virtual Managed Services

NAA technology integration and support services assist arbitrators, mediators and parties in offering productive online hearing experiences. With our help, parties, their representatives, arbitrators and mediators are able to focus on the dispute at hand, and not the technology on which the hearing is being conducted. Learn more about customized virtual environments with CASECONNECT.