Faced with a motion to compel arbitration? On August 18, 2021, an appellate opinion was rendered dealing with waiver of arbitration in Florida. If you are involved in a lawsuit, and arbitration is discussed, you want to read this case. To read more FREE FLORIDA LEGAL COMMENTARY about arbitration in Florida, CLICK HERE. What? Many contracts from corporations have a mandatory arbitration clause. Arbitration is a private court with a private judge. No cameras no public access. No jury trial. Those clauses in contracts generally state that any disputes have to go arbitration. NOT state or federal court. There are different ways to handle an arbitration. Your contract can spell out those rules, or rely on rules and procedures from organizations like AAA or JAMS. While many people like the “private” nature of arbitration, experienced trial lawyers may provide greater insight. Advantages? I think that a real trial attorney would tell you that there are not a lot of cost or fee savings with an arbitration vs. a trial in a Florida court. State or federal. In court, you don’t pay the judge. In arbitration, you pay the arbitrator, anywhere from about $500- $800 an hour. Some contracts require you to have a panel of 3 arbitrators! Big arbitration bill for the arbitrators. And in Florida state court, seniors can try to get an expedited trial. So, is arbitration really faster and less expensive? If a lawsuit is filed, the defendant may try to force you to arbitration. Deciding if […]