WHAT IS ARBITRATION?

Arbitration is another alternative to traditional litigation. In arbitration, a single arbitrator or a panel of multiple arbitrators (typically three) are selected and agreed upon by the parties. The arbitrator(s) then “hear” the case/dispute, determine the law and/or industry custom that applies, decides who wins, and makes an appropriate award.

WHY ARBITRATION?

  • Flexibility:  The arbitration proceeding, as well as the decision and issuance of an award, can be as formal or informal as the parties request. For example, the parties basically want to know the decision and award, which can take the form of a one-page letter or a “reasonable” award, which may be a 20 page discussion of the evidence, the issues, the controlling law or custom, the calculation and basis of the award, etc.
  • Confidentiality, No Publicity:  Frequently, one or more parties will have trade secrets, no publicity or confidentiality concerns.  Like meditation (and unlike traditional litigation), arbitration hearings, and the decisions of the arbitrators, can be conducted privately, with the decision issued confidentially.
  • Expediency, Cost Savings:  While it is not always true, many parties to arbitration find that the arbitration process is faster, with a quicker decision, less expensive, saving both time and money, than traditional litigation.
  • Arbitrator’s Unique Experience:  While arbitrators frequently are lawyers, there are occasions when experienced members of a specialized industry are needed or helpful. In such circumstances, those industry professionals (who used to be called “the industry man”) can lend their expertise to the dispute and allow for an expedited resolution. Examples include complex insurance coverage, oil and gas development issues, patent/trademark, high-tech industries, etc.

TAKE A LOOK AT HOW MY BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE HELPED IN ARBITRATION

Several years ago I served as an arbitrator in a tanker-dock allision and pollution case. I relied upon my maritime law background and experience to quickly understand the “safe berth” warranty provisions, the docking sequence and rudder commands, the damage to the ship and dock/breasting dolphins, the damage surveyors’ calculations of necessary repairs, financial assessment of loss of use claims, etc.  An arbitrator without that background, training and experience would have been lost in sorting out those issues.

AN EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY WITH EXCELLENT NEGOTIATING SKILLS

More than 95% of personal injury cases settle without a trial, Charles Herd excels in negotiating your case.  If you are struggling following a serious and life-changing injury, and you need help to get the justice and recovery you need and deserve, we can discuss how to fight for justice. Do not let someone’s negligence sideline what is important in your life. I can evaluate, represent and advise you while you take the time you need to recover from your injury. Let’s talk about it!

personal injury lawyer houston

AN EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY WITH EXCELLENT NEGOTIATING SKILLS

More than 95% of personal injury cases settle without a trial, Charles Herd excels in negotiating your case.  If you are struggling following a serious and life-changing injury, and you need help to get the justice and recovery you need and deserve, we can discuss how to fight for justice. Do not let someone’s negligence sideline what is important in your life. I can evaluate, represent and advise you while you take the time you need to recover from your injury. Let’s talk about it!