Arbitration

An arbitration is really a mini-trial, with the arbitrator serving in the role of judge. Unlike mediation, there is a final decision rendered after hearing the case presented by both sides to a dispute.

Customarily, arbitration hearings are held because a contract between the parties requires it in the event of a dispute. In other situations, the parties agree to submit the case in an arbitration hearing because the dispute can be resolved much more quickly and with much less cost involved than going to trial.

Mediation

A mediator (also known as a “neutral”) works to affect an agreement between the parties in a dispute outside of court. This can take place by agreement of the parties prior to or after a lawsuit has been filed or by order of the court while a lawsuit is pending. The mediator makes suggestions and objective analyses with the parties and their counsel, but does not decide the dispute.

Mediations frequently result in settlement, allowing the terms to be set by the parties, rather than the arbitrators or judges.

Special Master

Many times, complex cases involving multiple parties and in-depth discovery, require the appointment of a Special Master by the trial court. Our attorneys have been appointed in multiple cases to serve in this capacity, overseeing discovery and other administrative matters after the filing of suit and prior to trial.

Blitz, Bardgett & Deutsch’s experienced attorneys, including a retired judge, are particularly qualified to help resolve these disputes efficiently, potentially eliminating the need for a potentially costly trial.