Arbitration is a very flexible and powerful tool for resolving many different kinds of disagreements but it does not apply to every type of legal dispute. Generally, arbitration agreements apply to civil disputes that can normally be resolved through a settlement agreement. However, this means that criminal cases and family law disputes cannot normally be arbitrated. Arbitration awards for these types of cases can be set aside by a court and invalidated. Mediation that results in a mutual agreement is a more appropriate method for amicably settling criminal and family law disputes.
If you have any questions about whether a dispute you are involved in can be arbitrated or mediated, please contact our office for a legal consultation.