Serving New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Maple Ridge and Mission

Arbitration is a proceeding in which a dispute is resolved by an impartial adjudicator whose decision the parties to the dispute have agreed, or legislation had decreed, will be final and binding.

What is an Arbitration?

An arbitration is like a “mini” trial, where the spouses are usually, but not always, represented by lawyers, but an arbitrator will ultimately decide the dispute.  Both sides prepare their cases, layout their arguments and present evidence to support their claims.

It is unlike a trial in that in an arbitration, you are usually in a boardroom, not in a courtroom; and although evidence is taken under oath like a trial it is usually streamlined because the rules of evidence are relaxed and typical court procedures are less formally observed.

And, unlike a court case, arbitration records are private, which can save you from the embarrassment of having your private life made public.  Greater privacy and speed can prevent children from having to deal with the emotional stress and turmoil of a protracted court battle. 

The dispute will be decided by the arbitrator, which renders an arbitration award. An arbitration award is legally binding on both sides and enforceable in the courts.  There are limited rights of review and appeal of arbitration awards

Compared to going to Court:

• it saves time

• it saves stress

• and, it saves the client money

Looking to get in touch?

W. Laurence Scott. Q.C. is a qualified Family Law Mediator and a qualified Family Law Arbitrator.  He is also a qualified Parenting Coordinator.  Mr. Scott is certified by the Law Society of British Columbia in these areas to assist clients in family law disputes.

 It would be Mr. Scott’s pleasure to help you.