In general, mediation is less costly and faster than arbitration or litigation. Arbitration is another alternative to lawsuits. There are binding arbitration procedures where the arbitration decision is final and not appealable. By contrast, non-binding arbitration can be appealed. In other words, a dissatisfied party can reject the arbitration award and initiate or continue with litigation in the courts.
Some courts mandate arbitration in certain cases.
Such mandated arbitration is usually non-binding unless the parties themselves agree to be bound by the result in advance. Although FindLaw tries to provide accurate and current information, the ideas, information, and conclusions provided here may differ depending on local, state and federal laws and regulations and court cases. Given the different possible applications and interpretations of the law, you are urged to consult professional legal counsel regarding the applicability of legal issues discussed here to any specific legal problem you may have. You should not use this web site as a substitute for competent legal advice.