Philadelphia Mediation & Arbitration
There are alternatives to litigating your claim in court. Arbitration and Mediation are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes that are used with increasing frequency, particularly in the area of employment law.
Litigation is expensive, draining both parties of their financial resources and valuable time. ADR offers a less costly method of settling a dispute in a flexible, informal atmosphere. Additionally, the parties involved enjoy a more involved role than they would in a court proceeding. Sometimes, there is even the option of non-binding arbitration, which preserves the parties’ rights to continue to litigation subsequent to arbitration if they are dissatisfied with their resulting agreement.
If you have an employment issue that you are interested in resolving through ADR, contact Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. for a free consultation.
Negotiating Directly with Employers
It can be intimidating and damaging for an employee to engage in unrepresented negotiations with his or her employer. Typically, the employer enjoys the advantage of greater bargaining power and the ability to consult with attorneys throughout the process. Although the purpose of negotiation is usually to reach an agreement with which both parties are satisfied, there is no neutral mediator present to make sure each party’s interests are adequately represented.
If you need to engage in negotiations with your employer, obtaining representation early on can help you achieve swift resolution and protect you from limiting your rights. Call Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C., for a free consultation regarding your pending negotiations with your employer.
Non-Binding Mediation
Non-binding mediation is a process through which parties resolve their own issues, maintaining total control through the process and over the outcome of the mediation. A neutral mediator is present to help guide the parties and facilitate discussion of their goals and interests. While the mediator does not have the authority to make any kind of decision, he or she can assist the parties in drafting a written contract that may be enforceable in a court of law.
Having an attorney present during your non-binding mediation protects your interests and may save you from unintentionally taking action to your detriment. Additionally, if your matter is not resolved at the end of the mediation, your attorney can offer guidance as to what to do next. If you are considering engaging in a non-binding mediation, call Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C., today for a free consultation regarding your issue and possible representation.
Arbitration
Arbitration is a form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) that closely resembles an actual trial. The parties, usually through their attorneys, present their arguments and evidence to an arbitrator. The arbitrator, which may be a single person or a panel, act as judge and jury to determine the dispute’s resolution.
Arbitration can be binding or non-binding. In a binding arbitration, there are very few exceptions where a court will review the arbitrator’s decision. In a non-binding arbitration, the arbitrator’s decision need not be followed by the parties unless they both accept it.
If you are scheduled for a pending arbitration or considering arbitration as a option for resolving your dispute, contact Sidney L. Gold & Associates for a free consultation.
