Arbitration is simply a less formal form of court litigation. It has its advantages and disadvantages. Some complain that since it is final and essentially “non-appealable,” the process prevents parties from appealing the matter to a “higher court” – as if climbing up rungs in the litigation ladder is an efficient tool for dispute resolution. 

The reality is that due to the high cost of litigation and the delays caused by crowded court dockets, only a very small percentage of disputes ever actually reach the courtroom. The vast majority of lawsuits end up being settled, but not before there has been a significant expenditure of time and money – all of which might have been better used in settling the case.

I am acutely aware of this process, having arbitrated and litigated many real estate cases. I no long go to court, but continue to handle arbitrations, which is where many real estate disputes end up today. If your case won’t settle, despite your best efforts, and the other side is determined to take the matter to arbitration, I may be able to help give you the winning edge. As with mediation, I can act as your legal counsel or simply associate with your attorney to strategize and brainstorm. My evaluation will be honest and to the point. In short, I will help you decide whether to “hold ‘em or fold ‘em.