Discovery is the stage where each side shares information before a decision is made. In a lawsuit it can take months and involve depositions, long document requests and many disputes over what must be produced. Arbitration is designed to be faster, so discovery is usually narrower. Here is what to expect.
What is discovery?
Discovery is the exchange of documents and facts that bear on the dispute. The goal is to prevent surprises and let the decision maker see the important evidence. Without it, one side could hold back records that matter.
How arbitration discovery differs from court
- Scope: It is limited to what is relevant and needed to decide the claim.
- Speed: Deadlines are shorter, which keeps the case moving.
- Control: The arbitrator, working under the applicable rules, decides what must be exchanged.
- Cost: Fewer procedures usually means lower cost.
What information is usually exchanged
Parties typically share the documents they plan to rely on, such as contracts, invoices, emails, messages and photos. In many online cases the evidence is uploaded with the claim and the response, so each side can see the other side submissions. The arbitrator can ask for additional records if something important is missing.
What is usually not needed
Lengthy depositions and broad requests for every document are uncommon. If a request is not tied to the issues in the case, the arbitrator can decline it.
How to prepare your evidence
- Collect the contract and any amendments.
- Organize records by date.
- Keep screenshots and original files, not only summaries.
- Write a short note explaining what each exhibit shows.
Where the rules are set
The rules that govern the process come from the arbitration agreement and the administering provider. At Rapid Ruling, the arbitrator reviews the submissions under the Rapid Ruling Rules. Read the rules and forms before you file, and start your claim in the eFile portal when you are ready. For a bigger picture, see our overview of online arbitration.
