Robert W. Chester: Dispute Resolution Service

I've recently been asked to explain what it is that I do when I conduct an arbitration. First and foremost, I must be fair and permit both parties to be heard. Labor and employment disputes are a natural characteristic of our employment system. Disputes occur in the workplace. Arbitration is a procedure that is voluntarily chosen by the parties who want a dispute determined by an impartial tribunal of their own mutual selection. It isn't a new procedure, having been in use for many centuries. Arbitration is quicker, cheaper and much less complex than more formal litigation. Arbitration has the advantage of the subject matter expertise of the Arbitrator and the saving of time, expense and trouble. The U.S. Supreme Court has acknowledge that arbitration, rather than court litigation is the superior method of resolving employment issues.