skagit arbitration lawyer
As a Skagit arbitration lawyer, Neli Espe focuses on the prompt and effective resolution of her clients's disputes. She has worked in the area for over 15 years and teaches arbitration at the college level.
Whether you have a business, trust, probate, lease or contract dispute, give us a call to see if we can assist you in your arbitration proceeding. We offer flexible payment options and rates.
arbitration basics
Two key laws govern arbitration in Washington: the Federal Arbitration Act, and the Washington Revised Uniform Arbitration Act. If you are required to or choose to submit your business dispute to alternative dispute resolution by arbitration, you need a Washington lawyer who knows both sets of laws and how they interact with each other.
Arbitrations more closely resemble court proceedings than mediations, without subjecting disputants to the full costs of court proceedings. Arbitration is strictly a matter of contract between the parties. Once referred to arbitration, the parties to the dispute select an arbitrator or arbitrators following the procedures established in their contract, frequently relying on rules promulgated by the American Arbitration Association or JAMS.
Generally, arbitration allows for more limited discovery than traditional state and federal discovery rules, without being bound by standard rules of evidence. This allows for a cheaper discovery process. Parties may appeal the award of the arbitrator only under very limited circumstances.
Under Washington law, parties may modify or waive applicability of most, but not all, provisions of the law as best suits their contractual needs. Whether to have an arbitration clause in a contract should be discussed on a business-by-business. The parties may waive rights in arbitration (e.g. punitive damages and/or jury trial) and arbitration has fees that a normal litigation case does not have (e.g. the case administration and arbitrator fees).
contact a skagit arbitration lawyer today
If you need assistance with an arbitration matter, please give us a call at 360.630.3635.