Arbitration Agreement

What is Arbitration?

Arbitration is a procedure where parties, in this case you and your employer, settle disputes by going to a neutral 3rd party, usually a retired judge instead of suing them in court. Employers love arbitration because they get to tip scales in their favor. First, arbitrations are usually private, which means no matter how egregious the violation you are complaining about, they don’t have to worry about bad publicity. Second, most arbitration procedures allow only limited “discovery,” or the right to collect evidence from the other side, so you may not be able to prove your side of the story. Finally, they often require you to deal with only your individual grievances, and do not typically allow you to combine claims or apply penalties for others.

By utilizing a paperless database at our firm, we have faster, more efficient access to the information our clients need. With us on your side, you will have a clear understanding of the details of your case and what it will take to help you reach your legal goals.

“A shield for employers, a hurdle for justice. Privacy masks injustices, while limited discovery dims truth's light. In isolation, collective power fades."

Can my employer fire me or choose not to hire me if I don’t sign the arbitration agreement?

BUT, you have to know your rights. The same law also says that such an agreement is valid and enforceable if you sign it, even if they unlawfully made it a requirement. Once you sign it, it may be too late to get out of it, even if you did not know it was illegal to require you to sign it. Some exceptions and nuances to this exist. If you have questions about arbitration agreements, or think you may have signed one and are concerned what your rights may be, then contact us.

Can my employer fire me or choose not to hire me if I don’t sign the arbitration agreement?

BUT, you have to know your rights. The same law also says that such an agreement is valid and enforceable if you sign it, even if they unlawfully made it a requirement. Once you sign it, it may be too late to get out of it, even if you did not know it was illegal to require you to sign it. Some exceptions and nuances to this exist. If you have questions about arbitration agreements, or think you may have signed one and are concerned what your rights may be, then contact us.