Opinion ID: 1903703
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Intertwining-Claims Theory

Text: We recognize a second exception to the general rule that nonsignatories cannot be bound to arbitrate their claims: If a nonsignatory's claims are intertwined with and related to the contract, arbitration can be enforced. See, e.g., Ex parte Napier, 723 So.2d 49 (Ala.1998); Sunkist Soft Drinks, Inc. v. Sunkist Growers, Inc., 10 F.3d 753 (11th Cir.1993); Dunn Constr. Co. v. Sugar Beach Condo. Ass'n, Inc., 760 F.Supp. 1479 (S.D.Ala. 1991). However, Allen's complaint makes substantial allegations of negligence on the part of Cook's and Knollwood that are independent of any contractual obligations. Our cases recognizing intertwining claims as a basis for compelling arbitration have typically involved arbitration clauses broad enough to embrace intertwined claims (see the discussion in Subpart C., below) and allegations of a conspiracy between the nonsignatory and the signatory to the arbitration agreement. See Ex parte Isbell, 708 So.2d 571 (Ala. 1997). However, this is not such a case. Consequently, the claims are not subject to arbitration under the doctrine of intertwining.