Why You Should Use Online Arbitration Instead of Small Claims Court
August 1, 2024
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In today’s fast-paced world, resolving disputes efficiently is crucial. Whether it’s a matter of recovering unpaid debts, settling contract disputes, or addressing small-scale civil cases, many people find themselves torn between traditional small claims courts and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods like online arbitration. With the growing popularity of online dispute resolution (ODR), it’s important to understand why online arbitration can often be a better choice than going through the state courts or trial courts.
Getting what you deserve after someone has wronged you is an arduous process that requires you to go to court before a judge. However, with online arbitration, that process can be quicker, safer, and less expensive. After all, many researchers have called it the future of online justice.
At Rapid Ruling, we offer an online arbitration program that provides a quicker, safer, and more cost-effective alternative to small claims court. Below, we explore in detail why you should consider online arbitration over filing a small claims case in a traditional court system.
It’s Quicker
One of the most significant advantages of online arbitration is the speed of the process. Traditional small claims court cases can drag on for months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case and the backlog in the court system. After filing a claim, you may wait several months before your case is heard by a judge. This delay can be exacerbated by the need for multiple court appearances, subpoenas, and the possibility of appeals or motions.
You often have to wait for a lengthy deliberation with regular small claims court because other cases in that courtroom may overshadow you. After the COVID-19 pandemic, many courtrooms became backed up because of the shutdown and lack of in-person meetings.
In contrast, online arbitration through Rapid Ruling allows you to submit your evidence and plead your case, with the arbitrator’s decision typically delivered within weeks. This expedited process is made possible by the efficiency of online communication and the streamlined nature of ADR procedures. Additionally, our virtual hearings eliminate the need to coordinate schedules with opposing parties or navigate the court’s busy docket.
It’s Legally Binding
One of the common misconceptions about online arbitration is that it lacks the authority of a traditional court ruling. However, this is not the case. The decision rendered by an arbitrator in an online arbitration case is legally binding and enforceable, just like a court order issued by a judge. This means that once the arbitrator makes a decision, both parties are required to comply with the ruling, and failure to do so can result in legal consequences.
In many cases, arbitration clauses are included in contracts as a way to ensure that disputes are resolved quickly and efficiently without the need for litigation. By choosing online arbitration through Rapid Ruling, you can take advantage of this legally binding resolution process while avoiding the time and expense associated with a traditional court case.
It’s Virtual
The virtual nature of online arbitration offers numerous benefits, especially in a post-pandemic world. Small claims court cases often require physical attendance, which can be challenging and risky, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems or those who live far from the court’s jurisdiction. Virtual hearings allow you to participate from the comfort and safety of your home, reducing the risk of exposure to illnesses and eliminating the need for travel.
In addition, virtual arbitration minimizes the potential for physical or emotional harm. The ability to mute microphones and control video feeds during the hearing ensures that the proceedings remain civil and focused. This is especially important in contentious disputes where emotions can run high. The virtual setting also allows for a higher degree of control over the hearing environment, ensuring that all parties can present their case without unnecessary distractions.
Furthermore, our advanced technology ensures that virtual hearings are seamless and free of technical glitches. With high-quality audio and video, you can be confident that your voice is heard clearly and your evidence is reviewed thoroughly.
It’s Inexpensive
Price is a huge turn-off for people who want to take their case to a small claims court. Not only do you have to pay the filing fee, but you also have to spend money on a lawyer and travel. This sole reason makes it a big hit for small businesses.
Online arbitration offers a more affordable alternative. At Rapid Ruling, the cost of arbitration is shared between the parties, significantly reducing your financial burden. Unlike small claims courts, where you may need to invest in expert witnesses or legal representation, our trained arbitrators are equipped to handle a wide range of disputes without the need for additional expenses. This makes online arbitration an attractive option for small businesses and individuals alike.
Our trained arbitrators remove the need for lawyers because they allow you to present your evidence clearly and concisely and will give you a binding decision. You don’t need to pay an expert witness to prove your case because the arbitrator has all the expertise you need.
Additionally, both parties split the cost of appearing before the arbitrator, making it much cheaper for you. Add that to the minimal legal preparation you will do during this process, and you save tons of cash that the small claims court requires.
Having your hearings online eliminates any potential need to travel back and forth to a courtroom, saving you money. Eventually, the cost of settling your dispute in a small claims court will outweigh the potential reparations you would receive after a favorable decision.
It’s Supported by State and Federal Courts
Online arbitration is not only a practical alternative to small claims court, but it is also supported by state and federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Arbitration agreements and clauses are widely recognized and enforced, ensuring that the arbitrator’s decision holds the same weight as a court judgment.
In California and other states, arbitration is often encouraged as a means of reducing the burden on the court system and providing a more efficient resolution to disputes. By opting for online arbitration, you are choosing a resolution method that is respected and upheld by the highest courts in the country.
It’s Confidential
Confidentiality is another significant advantage of online arbitration. Unlike small claims court cases, which are typically part of the public record, arbitration proceedings are private. This means that the details of your dispute, the evidence presented, and the arbitrator’s decision remain confidential. For businesses and individuals who value privacy, this is a crucial benefit.
Confidentiality also helps preserve relationships between disputing parties. In cases where the parties have an ongoing relationship—such as a business partnership or client relationship—keeping the details of the dispute private can prevent further damage to the relationship and allow for a more amicable resolution.
Easy To Use Software
Our software is state-of-the-art and easy, simple, and fast. You can upload multiple pieces of evidence instantly, making the process painless and organized. Anything from witness statements to police reports will upload in minutes.
Compare this to the arduous process of submitting evidence to a small claims court and then taking weeks to months to review it before getting back to you with their decision. With Rapid Ruling, you remove all the guesswork and ensure that the right people see your evidence.
Our trained arbitrators will access the information and listen to you clearly during a call with fantastic audio and video programs. You won’t have to deal with voice drops, video cuts, or shaky audio.
With our innovative technology, we can give you a fair chance of settling your dispute with another party without delays or complications. Use our software to avoid large crowds, receive quick decisions, and stay within the comfort of your own home.
It’s the Future of Alternative Dispute Resolution
As technology continues to evolve, so too does the landscape of dispute resolution. Online dispute resolution (ODR) is increasingly being recognized as the future of legal proceedings, offering a modern and efficient alternative to traditional court cases. With the ability to resolve disputes quickly, affordably, and conveniently, online arbitration is set to become the preferred method for many individuals and businesses.
Rapid Ruling is at the forefront of this movement, providing cutting-edge technology and expert arbitration services that meet the needs of today’s fast-paced world. By choosing online arbitration, you are embracing the future of dispute resolution and taking advantage of the many benefits it offers.
Conclusion
Online arbitration through Rapid Ruling offers a superior alternative to traditional small claims courts. With its speed, affordability, convenience, and legal enforceability, it’s no wonder that more people are turning to online arbitration to resolve their disputes. Whether you’re dealing with a debt collection issue, a contract dispute, or any other civil action, online arbitration provides a streamlined, effective solution that meets the demands of modern life.
Don’t let the complexities of the court system stand in the way of getting the resolution you deserve. Choose Rapid Ruling’s online arbitration program and experience the future of dispute resolution today.
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