Opinion ID: 865114
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Complex Legalistic Language

Text: ¶35. The trial court concluded that the arbitration agreement was unconscionable due, in part, to “complex legalistic language.”6 However, Horton cites no authority which suggests that 6 Horton’s counsel urged us at oral argument to adopt a new pro-consumer rule which would require all consumer contracts to be easily understood by the parties. Even were it possible to pen such 15 contractual provisions are unenforceable simply because they are difficult for a lay person to understand. That said, we note that the arbitration language in Horton’s agreement clearly states that the parties agreed to arbitrate any and all disputes arising out of, or in any way related to, the loan transaction at issue, including any and all claims premised upon any insurance policies purchased in connection therewith. The agreement further states that “arbitration will take the place of any court proceedings, including a trial with a judge or a judge and a jury.” Horton’s agreement provides that she understood she was “waiving any right to a trial by a judge or a judge and jury.” We see nothing difficult or misleading about this language. The arbitration agreement is not unconscionable because of complex or legalistic language. 5. Disparity in Sophistication or Bargaining Power ¶36. Horton’s claim that there was a lack of sophistication or bargaining power is not supported by any evidence, sworn testimony, or affidavits. Rather, she merely states that she was “certainly less sophisticated in business matters.” Even if this contention is correct, it is certainly not enough, standing alone. This Court could hardly employ a rule which required the parties to every contract to be of exactly equal sophistication. One party or the other will always be more or less sophisticated in business matters than the other. Here, however, there a rule, the resulting ambiguity and imprecise terms would potentially present far worse problems than are caused by carefully drafted language. Additionally, such decisions are constitutionally reserved to the Legislature. 16 is no evidence in the record that Horton attempted to negotiate the terms of the arbitration agreement or have it removed. Nor does the record reflect Horton’s alleged lack of sophistication in financial matters. Nothing in the record indicates Horton could not have obtained a loan with another financial institution, had she so desired. Thus, Horton has failed to demonstrate lack of sophistication sufficient to render the arbitration agreement unenforceable. 6. Lack of Opportunity to Study and Inquire About Contract Terms ¶37. The record provides no specific facts supporting Horton’s alleged lack of opportunity to study and inquire about the contract terms. There is no indication she was rushed or hurried into completing the loan transaction by a set time; nor can we find she was prevented from studying and inquiring as to the terms. Accordingly, this Court does not find any lack of opportunity to study and inquire about the contract terms. Substantive Unconscionability ¶38. Horton vaguely averred to the lower court that the arbitration agreement was substantively unconscionable because it denied her remedies to which she was entitled under the law. However, the arbitration agreement between Horton and Defendants contains no limitation of damages, no limitation on bringing claims, and no waiver of liability. The agreement merely submits the question of liability to a forum other than the courts. See Taylor, 826 So.2d at 716. Thus, Horton has failed to establish that the arbitration agreement is substantively unconscionable. 17