Arbitration =========== What is arbitration? -------------------- Arbitration is a private dispute resolution procedure which provides an alternative to court proceedings. In arbitration, parties jointly appoint an arbitrator (a specially trained, independent third party) to resolve the dispute. This decision will be final and binding between the parties. **If you're considering or going through a divorce and would like to explore methods of alternative dispute resolution to come to an agreement with your spouse, we can help. Click below for a free initial consultation with one of our expert divorce solicitors.** [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK FREE CONSULTATION") What are the benefits of arbitration? ------------------------------------- Arbitration is becoming an increasingly popular alternative for couples to resolve disputes and agree a financial settlement, particularly in high-net-worth divorces. With the backlog and delays in the family court, arbitration has become more attractive thanks to a number of benefits: - **Speed** - arbitration often provides a faster resolution for parties, as the timetable is subject only to the parties' agreements and the availability of their arbitrator, rather than the delays common in the family court. - **Cost** - arbitration can be a more cost-effective way for parties to come to an agreement. They will have to pay their legal fees, the fees of any arbitrator, and the cost of any venue hired, but parties generally have greater control of how far costs can go. - **Confidentiality** - the arbitration process is protected by strict confidentiality rules which are not present in normal court proceedings. As such, arbitration is a favourable option for high-profile individuals seeking to minimise any media scrutiny. - **Flexibility** - parties can tailor the arbitration process to suit them, such as by deciding whether it should be conducted in person, remotely, or on paper. They can also determine the specific issues they wish the arbitrator to settle. - **Autonomy and control** - parties must agree on an arbitrator but this is a choice which is not afforded in family court. Having the ability to select an arbitraor, who will oversee the process from beginning to end, and even meet them beforehand can provide additional reassurance. - **Certainty** - by agreeing to arbitrate, parties agree that the arbitrator's award will be final and binding. - **Reduced stress** - many parties find arbitration a less stressful and adversarial process compared to financial remedy proceedings in the family court. Choosing an arbitrator ---------------------- Both parties must agree on who is appointed as an arbitrator. Arbitrators are generally specialist family solicitors, barristers or retired judges. Can you appeal an arbitration award? ------------------------------------ It is possible to an appeal an arbitration award, but only on very limited grounds. Parties cannot appeal simply because they disagree or dislike the arbitrator's decision. An appeal can only be made if there were significant procedural errors. What is the difference between mediation and arbitration? ---------------------------------------------------------- Mediation and arbitration are both types of alternative dispute resolution, but they differ in their methods. In mediation, a neutral mediator assists the parties in negotiating and reaching their own agreement; the mediator facilitates the process but does not decide the outcome. Conversely, in arbitration, the arbitrator listens to both sides of the dispute and then makes a legally binding decision. *Vardags' team of top divorce lawyers delivers a bespoke legal service to HNW and UHNW individuals, their families, and businesses.* About Us -------- Ayesha VardagFounder & President "A DIVORCE LAWYER WIDELY REGARDED AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST" The Metro Vardags offer a unique approach to the law, specially tailored to the needs of HNW individuals. We offer City-quality representation for your divorce and family law needs. Our lawyers come from the very best universities and receive the very best training - they are determined, diligent, and dedicated to getting the best outcome... [read more](https://vardags.com/about-us) [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) Related Guides -------------- [Collaborative Divorce](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/collaborative-divorce "Collaborative Divorce") [Mediation](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/mediation "Mediation") [Private Financial Dispute Resolutions (private FDRs)](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/guide-to-private-financial-dispute-resolutions "Private Financial Dispute Resolutions (private FDRs)") [Round Table Meetings: Resolving Disputes Out of Court](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/round-table-meetings "Round Table Meetings: Resolving Disputes Out of Court") [Solicitor-led negotiation](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/solicitor-led-negotiation "Solicitor-led negotiation") [What is Arbitration?](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/what-is-arbitration "What is Arbitration?") Glossary Reference ------------------ ### Arbitration (in divorce and finance proceedings) A form of dispute resolution, where a neutral third party makes binding decisions in place of a judge. The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you. What our clients say -------------------- I always felt I was in the best hands, I highly recommend them! Alessandra Arrigoni Thanks to Emma and the team for the outstanding handling of my case. Throughout the months of my ongoing case I was kept informed and updated at all times never left wondering what was happening or where I stood. From meeting... Emma I felt instantly that my case was in good (understatement) hands, she has a friendly personal approach as well as so much expertise in the handling of family law cases. I feel so grateful to have had Emma and her team handle my case and for the outcome! Thank you! Emily Calvin Very comprehensive service with excellent in house expertise. They helped me achieve an outcome that was beyond my expectations. Paul Stringer Nicola and the team are the best support you could ask for at the most difficult of times. As well as being knowledgeable, forward thinking, organised and hard-working, she has empathy and goes above and beyond for her clients. C I hope you don't need it, but if you do, I would highly recommend Vardags. Xiao Ma I found myself in a position that I quite simply never dreamt I would be in in a million years. I went to Vardags, initially for advice. All my options were laid out in a very professional yet personal way. We decided to go down... a particular route and as my situation changed , so did the route that Vardags recommended. I had never felt so vulnerable in all my life and so it was very comforting to feel supported at all times. 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