The more relaxed nature of the arbitration proceeding makes it easier and more inviting for a party to proceed without an attorney. However, there are several reasons that a party—particularly an individual or small business owner—might want to consider hiring an attorney to represent him or her in arbitration:
A party who is unfamiliar with the legal process may overlook important evidence, inadvertently weakening his case. Although the arbitrator will gather and consider all evidence, the clarity and organization with which it is presented will impact his or her perception of the case. If the other party is represented by an attorney or is a corporate representative accustomed to arbitration, the individual may find himself at a disadvantage in the proceeding. Arbitration involving employment contracts tends to be very complex and requires compliance with strict rules. Failure to adhere to the rules can result in a waiver of rights.