What is a non-signatory to an arbitration agreement?

A non-signatory to an arbitration agreement in Virginia is someone who is not a party to the arbitration agreement. This could be someone who was not consulted when the agreement was drafted, someone who was not involved in any way, or someone who was actively excluded from the agreement. A non-signatory may be a business or individual, and they may not even be aware that the arbitration agreement exists. The purpose of arbitration is for parties to resolve disputes outside of court. An arbitration agreement typically specifies the conditions that must be met in order for the dispute to be resolved (e.g. who is a party to the arbitration agreement, what rules must be followed, etc.). Non-signatories are not bound by the agreement and are not required to participate in the process. In Virginia, a non-signatory may be brought into an arbitration process through a process known as “equitable estoppel.” If the non-signatory is deemed to have sufficient connection to the dispute, then the court may order them to participate in the arbitration process. This allows the other party to gain the benefit of the arbitration agreement even though the non-signatory was not originally a party to it. In summary, a non-signatory to an arbitration agreement in Virginia is someone who is not a party to the agreement and is not required to participate in the arbitration process. However, a court may order a non-signatory to participate in the arbitration process through a process known as “equitable estoppel.”

Related FAQs

What is the difference between direct and indirect arbitration?
Are there limits to the amount of attorney’s fees that can be awarded by an arbitrator?
How do I challenge forum-selection clauses in arbitration?
What is a motion to confirm an arbitration award?
What are the differences between arbitration and other forms of dispute resolution?
What is a mini-trial?
Is there a process for consolidating multiple arbitrations?
Are there any special considerations for international arbitration awards?
Are there any special considerations for commercial arbitration?
Are there any remedies for a breach of the duty of good faith and fair dealing?

Related Blog Posts

Unlocking the Basics of Arbitration Law: What You Need to Know - July 31, 2023
Top Tips for Navigating Arbitration Law Successfully - August 7, 2023
Comparing International and Domestic Arbitration: What Businesses Should Know - August 14, 2023
Effective Strategies for Drafting Arbitration Agreements - August 21, 2023
Common Misconceptions About Arbitration Law: What Everyone Needs to Know - August 28, 2023