What happens if an agreement is not reached at an arbitration hearing?

If an agreement is not reached at an arbitration hearing in Washington, either party has the option of taking the dispute to court. In arbitration, the parties typically select an impartial arbitrator who will hear both sides and make a decision, rather than having a judge or jury make a decision as in a court trial. If an agreement is not reached, the parties can file a civil lawsuit in a court, where each side will present evidence, witnesses, and arguments. The court would then make a ruling or verdict on the dispute. In some cases, the parties may agree to a process called mediation. In mediation, a neutral third party, who is a mediator, hears both sides and helps the parties come to an agreement without making a judgment. The mediator does not make any legal rulings or decisions but instead helps the parties to discuss their interests and come to a mutually satisfactory agreement. It is important to remember that the arbitration and mediation processes are alternatives to going to court. A court decision can be appealed, but if a party decides to pursue arbitration or mediation, the parties must abide by the agreement or decision reached by the arbitrator or mediator. Therefore, if the parties do not reach an agreement through arbitration or mediation, it may be necessary to take the dispute to court.

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What happens if an agreement is not reached at an arbitration hearing?

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