do courts usually uphold a arbitration clause written in a contract?
Arbitration is a fast way to get a decision when you are in a dispute. Arbitration is more flexible and less formal than court. Usually, an arbitration can be scheduled faster than a trial. Sometimes, if the parties want, arbitrators can decide things that judges are not allowed to decide. Mandatory: Arbitration is required by law for some court cases. 2  State law requires that some cases filed in state courts go to mandatory arbitration. 3  Voluntary: Parties may agree to arbitration before or after filing a court case, or may have a contract that requires them to arbitrate disputes.