Arbitral Tribunal: Key Insights into Its Definition and Function

Q: Can I choose my arbitrator?

Yes, parties typically have the right to appoint their arbitrators, depending on the arbitration agreement.

Q: Is arbitration binding?

Yes, arbitration awards are generally binding and enforceable, similar to court judgments.

Definition & Meaning

An arbitral tribunal is a body established to resolve disputes through arbitration, which is an alternative to litigation in court. It can consist of a single arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators. When multiple arbitrators are appointed, one of them typically serves as the chairman to facilitate decision-making. The parties involved in a dispute have the flexibility to determine the number of arbitrators and the structure of the tribunal based on their agreement.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Arbitral tribunals are commonly used in various legal contexts, including civil, commercial, and international disputes. They provide a private and often faster resolution process compared to traditional court systems. Users may find it beneficial to utilize legal forms and templates from resources like US Legal Forms to draft arbitration agreements or clauses that specify the formation and operation of an arbitral tribunal.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: Two businesses enter into a contract that includes an arbitration clause stating that any disputes will be resolved by a three-member arbitral tribunal. Each party appoints one arbitrator, and they jointly select a chairman.

Example 2: A construction dispute arises, and the parties agree to resolve it through ad hoc arbitration, forming a tribunal with one arbitrator to expedite the process. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 1297.21 (b), an arbitral tribunal is defined as either a sole arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators. This statute provides a legal framework for the establishment and operation of arbitral tribunals in California.

State-by-state differences

State	Definition of Arbitral Tribunal
California	Defined as a sole arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators under Cal Code Civ Proc § 1297.21 (b).
New York	Similar to California, allowing for both sole and multiple arbitrators.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Description
Arbitration	A method of resolving disputes outside of court, which may involve an arbitral tribunal.
Mediation	A process where a neutral third party helps disputing parties reach a voluntary agreement, not involving a tribunal.
Litigation	The process of taking legal action in court, as opposed to arbitration.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation that may require the establishment of an arbitral tribunal, consider the following steps:

Review your contract for any arbitration clauses that specify the use of an arbitral tribunal.
Consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and obligations.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you draft arbitration agreements or clauses.
If the matter is complex, seeking professional legal assistance is advisable.

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Quick facts

Typical fees: Varies based on arbitrators and complexity of the case.
Jurisdiction: Depends on the arbitration agreement and applicable laws.
Possible penalties: None directly associated, but parties may face costs if they do not comply with arbitration agreements.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between arbitration and litigation?

Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process, while litigation involves resolving disputes in a public court.