Understanding Arbitration in Family Law

 

Family disputes can be emotionally and financially draining, especially when they go to court. Fortunately, there's an alternative way of resolving family law matters outside of court, and that's through arbitration. Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process where both parties present their cases before an arbitrator or an arbitration panel instead of going to trial. This way, families can save time, money, and energy in resolving their legal matters. In this blog, you'll learn everything you need to know about arbitration in family law.

 

The arbitration process in family law is similar to court litigation, but the parties involved have control over the arbitration proceedings. Before an arbitration hearing starts, both parties must agree on an arbitrator or an arbitration panel. The arbitrator or panel then sets the rules and procedures for the hearing. During the hearing, both parties present evidence and testimony before the arbitrator, who then makes a binding decision. The decision is enforceable in court, just like a court judgment.

One of the main advantages of arbitration is that it provides a more private environment compared to court litigation. The parties involved can agree to keep the proceedings confidential, which can be especially vital in family law matters. Confidentiality can help protect sensitive issues, especially those involving children.

Another advantage of arbitration in family law is that it's faster and less costly than going to court. The parties involved can agree on how quickly the process will take, which can save them significant time and money. Plus, they'll avoid additional costs such as court filing fees, deposition fees, and other expenses related to court litigation.

Arbitration allows the parties involved to have more control over the proceedings and the outcome. They can choose specific arbitrators who have expertise in family law cases, which increases the chances of a favorable outcome. They can also agree on the amount of discovery, which can limit the evidence presented in the hearing.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, arbitration is a useful option for resolving family law matters, including child custody, divorce, property division, and other disputes. Unlike court litigation, arbitration provides a more private, faster, and less costly option that allows the parties involved to have more control over the proceedings and outcome. If you're looking for a family law practice in Altamonte Springs, FL that can help you with arbitration, contact Frank Family Law Practice today. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the process and help you achieve a favorable outcome.