Willowbend ADR Group offers an all-inclusive arbitration experience in a private courtroom environment without the exposure or inconvenience associated with using a public court location or limited conference room.
Arbitration is the out-of-court resolution of a dispute between contracting parties by a neutral third party (the arbitrator). Arbitration has spread more widely as an alternative dispute resolution method over the past ten years, whether as a result of contractual or statutory prerequisites or with the consent of the parties to the dispute: Willowbend ADR Group provides experienced arbitrators and a private courtroom setting as part of its commitment to improving the resolution experience.
In Texas, arbitration may be binding or non-binding. Binding arbitration means that, with certain exceptions, the arbitrator’s decision is final. The arbitrator basically acts as a judge and jury, and the parties must abide by the decision. In non-binding arbitration, the parties may abide by the arbitrator’s decision. However, the arbitrator’s decision is not legally binding, so any party who is unsatisfied with it may seek other relief by filing or moving forward with a lawsuit.
Whether arbitration is binding or non-binding, the process is the same. The parties will decide how the arbitrator or panel will be chosen, and they will also decide on the rules and procedures that will govern the arbitration process. The arbitration hearing is like a trial in that the arbitrator or panel listens to statements from the parties, reviews evidence, hears witness testimony, considers reports or testimony from experts, and renders a decision based on that evidence. However, it often takes place in a conference room or public facilities rented for the process.
Willowbend ADR Group boasts a full courtroom in the interior of its facility so that parties may arbitrate their disputes in a private setting rather than fully litigate in the court system or arbitrate in the uncomfortable surroundings of a limited conference room or public space. The Willowbend Courtroom includes a three-panel bench, witness stand, counsel tables, and guest seating and is equipped with appropriate technology for audio/visual presentations and even virtual witness attendance if necessary. The Willowbend Courtroom is connected to two private conference rooms for party use during the arbitration proceedings, as well as a separate lounge functioning as arbitrator chambers.
Willowbend ADR Group offers experienced attorneys and credentialed arbitrators for binding adjudication or as a more fully developed alternative resolution process in a non-binding form. Should the arbitrating parties select a Willowbend arbitrator to conduct the proceedings, the Willowbend Courtroom is available at a reduced facility operation charge. The courtroom is also available for rent to parties seeking a private setting with the conveniences of a courtroom environment.
