What Happens in Arbitration?

• When you agree to arbitration, an arbitrator will settle the dispute. The arbitrator listens to the grievances of both parties and makes a ruling based on the presented grievances. The ruling is final. Arbitrators hear cases in person, by phone, or by written correspondence.
  
  

Arbitration Is Binding

• One of the major differences between court cases and arbitration is your ability to appeal an unfavorable decision. In most cases, arbitrations are final and, as such, they are rarely overturned. Arbitrations are generally overturned in cases of extreme bias or fraud. The arbitration ruling is usually sealed, and it is only made public by agreement between the arbitrating parties. Fees for arbitration are often expensive, and your contract with the company that issued your credit card will determine the party responsible for paying these fees.
  
  

Courts

• In court cases involving credit card disputes, both parties typically have an opportunity to be fully heard. A judge is present who must follow the rules of law applicable to the specific case. You can generally appeal the decision of a judge to a higher court, in the event the decision involved an error of law.
  
  

Tips on Arbitration

• In arbitration, you have the option of having an attorney represent you. In most cases, involving a credit card dispute, attorney representation is a good idea. Request an in-person arbitration hearing. This will give you a better chance of arguing your case in front of the arbitrator. Keep all documentation that was sent to you since the initiation of the arbitration. Request all copies of documents from the company that issued the credit card which are relevant to your case. Carefully consider the merits of your case before proceeding to arbitration. If you don't think you can win the case, don't waste your money and time fighting it.