Understanding Enforcing Awards [Securities Dispute Resolution]: A Legal Overview

Definition & meaning

Enforcing awards in the context of securities dispute resolution refers to the legal process by which a party seeks to compel compliance with an arbitral award. While parties may voluntarily adhere to such awards, enforcement becomes necessary when one party fails to comply. In these cases, only a court has the authority to enforce the award, as arbitral panels do not possess enforcement powers.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A company receives an arbitral award for damages due to a breach of contract. When the opposing party refuses to pay, the company may file a lawsuit to enforce the award in court.

Example 2: An investor wins an arbitral award against a brokerage for mishandling transactions. If the brokerage does not comply, the investor can seek enforcement through the courts. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Enforcement Variations
California Generally follows the Federal Arbitration Act but has additional state-specific rules for enforcement.
New York Allows for expedited enforcement procedures in certain cases.
Texas Has specific statutes that may affect the enforcement of arbitral awards in commercial disputes.

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

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself needing to enforce an arbitral award, consider the following steps:

  • Review the arbitral award and ensure you understand its terms.
  • Consult with a legal professional if you are unsure about the enforcement process.
  • Explore legal templates available through US Legal Forms to prepare necessary documents for court.
  • Be mindful of the one-year time limit for enforcement actions.

Key takeaways

FAQs

The other party can file a lawsuit in court to enforce the award.