2 Ways to Settle a Florida Business Dispute Outside of Court

As a business owner, you have likely experienced your fair share of conflict in the workplace. Whether it is an undependable employee or frequent arguments between two employees or a business partner, running a successful business is a difficult task that requires patience, understanding, and a strong hand when necessary. Rising disputes in the workplace can lead to a toxic work environment for everyone, even those who are not involved in the conflict. While going to court to end the dispute is an option, you should consider the two following alternatives before spending the time and money in litigation.

Mediation

Mediation is typically the starting point for business owners who are noticing a dispute emerging. This form of alternative dispute resolution resolves misunderstandings with a neutral party present to manage the process. Mediation is not as structured as litigation and can allow the two disputing parties to discuss their grievances in a private, relaxed setting before getting a judge involved. The mediator is hired to manage the discussion, speaking privately with each party, or bringing the two parties together for further discussion. The mediator’s job is to help the two parties come to a voluntary agreement, not to take on an authoritative role and choose for them.

Mediation offers a number of benefits to businesses, the most important being the confidentiality that goes along with the process. Litigation is a very public solution, with both parties hashing out their grievances in front of a courtroom. Mediation provides a private, confidential environment for both parties to discuss their issues and come to a mutually agreeable solution. If successful, mediation can help both parties move forward with a more positive relationship, while litigation can leave the two individuals parting with ongoing anger or frustration.

Arbitration

Arbitration is a happy medium between mediation and litigation. In this form of dispute resolution, the dispute will be submitted to an impartial third-party—known as the arbitrator—for a final and binding decision. Similar to a trial, the arbitrator will make the final decision, with the disputing parties having no choice in the matter, but there are limited discovery and simplified rules of evidence. The arbitrator will be provided relevant documents for review and will submit an opinion after reviewing the case. Both parties will be able to present their case, but there are typically no witnesses or other court processes involved. If you are looking for a more formal, structured form of dispute resolution but would like to remain outside of the court, arbitration may be your best option. Similar to litigation, you are provided a binding decision, but it is a more confidential and flexible way to come to an agreement on the dispute.

Contact a Broward County Business Dispute Lawyer

Source:

https://www.thebalancesmb.com/resolve-business-disputes-with-arbitration-398748