Skilled California Attorneys Offer Cost-Effective Options Through Alternative Dispute Resolution
Proven lawyers save time, stress and expense for clients in the Chico area
Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) refers to a number of methods used to settle controversies outside the civil court system. These include nonbinding arbitration, binding arbitration and mediation. When you choose the ADR route, it’s important to remember you are still involved in an adversarial process. Moreover, if you agree to binding arbitration, you are giving up any and all rights to appeal the decision. At Power Law P.C., we represent people in the Chico area and throughout California in ADR proceedings to help them reach consensus. We draw on substantial experience to guide clients toward favorable results that save them time, money and stress.
Responsive advocates explain the difference between arbitration and mediation
Mediation can be seen as the first step in a two-step process. During mediation, parties may argue over the interpretation of a clause in a contract or a fair award for damaged property. The mediator, an impartial third party, will work with them to forge an agreement. He or she will not impose a result, but rather help them achieve it. If the parties can’t agree, the dispute might move to arbitration, where a neutral arbitrator will listen to the facts of a case and render a decision. In nonbinding arbitration, the parties can reject the decision and then move on to binding arbitration or trial. In binding arbitration, parties agree to abide by whatever the arbitrator decides and there is no appeal.
Each stage of this process requires preparation, execution and high-level decision-making, weighing costs and benefits and anticipating consequences. Our experienced attorneys with Power Law P.C. approach arbitration as they would a trial: meticulously preparing your case, researching relevant law and weaving material facts into a compelling narrative asserting your cause.
Knowledgeable attorneys advise on the benefits of arbitration for a civil dispute
Arbitration is designed to reach a fair outcome without the expense and time of a trial. When it is voluntary, arbitration helps many people who might otherwise be shut out of the justice system by high costs. However, arbitration is still an adversarial process, with each side presenting their case and rebutting their opponent’s. This is especially true if your opponent is a corporation with a mandatory arbitration clause in its contract. Since that company has a staff of lawyers focused on winning arbitration cases, you need an equally skilled, professional legal team on your side.
If the arbitrator is neutral, why do I need a lawyer?
A trial judge would also be neutral, but you probably would not venture to represent yourself in court. Our seasoned attorneys know how to approach arbitration proceedings to display your case in the best light, and their knowledge is power for you to assure an outcome based upon the merits of your case.
Contact an established California ADR law firm
There are many benefits to alternative dispute resolution for various types of civil and commercial disputes. For capable ADR assistance, you can trust the experienced attorneys at Power Law P.C.. To schedule a free consultation at our Chico office, call 530-576-5740 or contact us online today.
