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Arbitration

Arbitration is a method of resolving disputes without a courtroom proceeding. During arbitration, the two opposing sides present their evidence and testimony to a neutral third party. The arbitrator reviews the evidence and makes a decision that may be binding or non-binding. If it is binding, the arbitrator’s decision is final; if it is non-binding, the case may still proceed to trial. Though not always the final solution, arbitration has several advantages over litigation, among them that:

Arbitration resolves the case much more quickly since the arbitrator, unlike a judge, needn’t follow legal precedents, nor explain his or her reasoning. This is particularly important now that the court system is so overburdened. Arbitration is, in most cases, less expensive than a traditional lawsuit In cases involving technical or scientific issues, arbitrators with a particular area of expertise can be chosen. Arbitration is typically private, unlike a public hearing. In most cases, arbitration cannot be appealed, again saving time and money.

Because of its greater flexibility, arbitration is often chosen over litigation as a more efficient process.

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution, and is used to avoid a court proceeding for individuals involved in a dispute. In arbitration, the parties with a conflict select a neutral third party, called an arbitrator. The arbitrator will hold one or more hearings at which both sides can present evidence and testimony. After reviewing evidence and testimony of the parties, the arbitrator will render a decision. In most cases, the arbitrator’s decision is final, though arbitration can be either binding or non-binding. In non-binding arbitration, either side can reject the arbitrator’s award, and then the case would proceed to a trial. The arbitrator’s decision is typically not allowed to be mentioned at the trial.

In some cases, arbitration is required, primarily when contracts between the parties provide that any dispute will be resolved through arbitration. Arbitrators do not have to follow legal precedents, as judges do. They also are not required to explain the reasoning behind the decision. Arbitration can be performed by one arbitrator or by a panel of several arbitrators.

Arbitration can offer a number of advantages over a courtroom proceeding. First, arbitrations are usually faster than litigation, especially now when court dockets are overflowing in many areas of the country. Arbitration also tends to be less expensive than a traditional lawsuit. Furthermore, if the dispute is of a highly technical or scientific nature, arbitrators with expertise in that area can be chosen. Arbitration proceedings are usually private rather than public, such as a trial. Finally, the fact that decisions reached in an arbitration usually cannot be appealed offers the advantage of certainty for the prevailing party.

Arbitrators in many areas can award a variety of remedies. They include ordering one party to pay a sum of money, ordering a party to do or not to do something, making a declaration as to a matter determined in the arbitration, ordering performance of a contract, or ordering a contract to be set aside. Arbitrators may also be able to compel third parties to comply with discovery demands by disclosing records or other critical information.

If you feel arbitration may be an avenue worth considering for your legal dispute, contact our knowledgeable law firm today for a consultation.

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I highly recommend Ike Kaludi and his team for anyone needing legal assistance in personal injury cases. Ike's extensive experience was evident and very helpful throughout the process. He was always ready to explain each step, discuss all possible outcomes, and provide examples from previous cases, which greatly aided my understanding and decision-making.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much will my case cost me?

We operate on a Zero Fee Guarantee for personal injury and employment-related cases. This means that you don't pay any attorney's fees unless we recover compensation for you. In other words, if we don't win your case, you don't owe us anything. This is a common practice for plaintiff law firms and ensures that our clients can pursue justice without worrying about upfront costs.

Additionally, the cost of a consultation is free for personal injury and employment-related matters. You should feel confident contacting our firm to learn more about your case and how we can help you seek compensation for your injuries or employment issues.

Most of the attorney fees and litigation costs, when the case is successful, are typically covered by the money recovered from your case. However, it's important to note that if a client decides to terminate our services before a resolution is reached, they may be responsible for any attorney fees and litigation costs incurred up to that point. No recovery, no charge is our standard practice, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation without financial risk.

How do I choose the right attorney?

When selecting a legal professional to represent your case, it is important to find someone with high credentials, worthy memberships, and a proven record of obtaining success for clients. These are indicators of an attorney's dedication and skills. At California Trial Law Group, we hold membership on the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association, Consumer Attorneys of California, the Alameda County Bar Association, California Employment Lawyers Association, and various other organizations dedicated to representing injured individuals and employees. Our lawyers have received high marks by clients and peers on Superlawyers and AVVO.

How long do I have to file a claim or lawsuit?

Lawsuits are subject to California's statute of limitations; a set of laws that limits the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. Below are some common deadlines to watch for:

You must file a personal injury lawsuit within two years of the accident or the date you discovered the injury. If you are filing suit against a government entity for personal injury, you only have six months.

Aggrieved ex-employees who have been wrongfully terminated must file their claims within two years of termination. Even though California is an at-will state, employers cannot fire their employees for an illegal reason, such as their ethnicity, age, or gender.

Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) discrimination claims are a two-step process because claimants have one year to file administrative complaints under the FEHA, and then an additional year to file a lawsuit after they receive a right-to-sue letter.

California Family Rights Act (CFRA) Retaliation Claims: Similar to FEHA, a person loses the right to file a lawsuit one year after the CFRA agency sends a right-to-sue letter.

Most unpaid wage claims are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. Under the Unfair Competition Law (UCL), the time period is extended to four years for unpaid wage claims under the Unfair Competition Law, while wage statement claims must be brought within one year.

How do I know if I have a claim?

If you were injured in a preventable accident or in connection with your employment, then you likely have reasonable cause for a claim. By contacting our firm, we can help you make this determination.

When should I contact an attorney?

Speak with a lawyer immediately after you seek medical help for your injury. Get the medical attention that you need, then contact an attorney about your legal rights and options. Your health is the most important thing, but your future, finances, and rights are important too.

How much is my case worth?

The value of a personal injury claim or lawsuit depends on a multitude of factors: the extent of your injuries, your medical expenses, your emotional damages, and more. If you missed work because of an injury, you can seek additional compensation for lost wages. Schedule a consultation with our firm to learn more about your legal opportunities after an accident.

How long will my case last?

The duration of any case is subject the particular circumstances of that case. We will be better able to answer this question after reviewing your case and determining how to best move forward. You can call our firm today for a free consultation.

Our firm is dedicated to your case and will take the time necessary to ensure that you receive all that you deserve, even if it does take years. We will take care of as much of the process as possible, so you don't have to lose valuable time and can focus on your medical treatment and recovering.

How Do Insurance Companies Calculate Settlement Offers?

Many insurance companies have a base equation that they use to calculate settlement offers. Unfortunately, this initial amount is usually insufficient because insurance adjustors usually try to save the insurance companies money . Thus, victims should not seek to close their case too quickly, but consult a personal injury lawyer to receive a fair offer. California Trial Law Group ensure that the insurance companies treat our client's fairly, that they not undervalue your case, and that you will ultimately receive a favorable settlement.

What Types Of Compensation Am I Entitled To As A Result Of My Injury?

You may receive compensation for past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of earnings, property damage, and for other expenses you incurred. In the case of wrongful death, the family may receive an amount to cover the loss of future income as well as loss of companionship. As part of our service, we will discuss in detail an amount of compensation that you deserve and that we will fight for to obtain.

Do All Lawsuits Have To Go To Court?

No. Many cases are settled out of court. Our firm, however, is well prepared to take a defendant to court if they do not give our client the amount that we feel our client is entitled to.

What makes California Trial Law Group different from other firms?

We are a firm dedicated to serving the needs of our clients and your best interest come first and foremost. When you are looking for reliable, unyielding legal representation there is no better firm to turn to than California Trial Law Group.