Contract Arbitration - ADR Systems

ADR Systems

Contract Arbitration

Contract disputes can be complex, costly and prolonged, often involving claims of breach of contract, non-performance, delays, payment issues and more. Court backlogs and trial delays in state and federal court, as well as extensive discovery and motion practice can significantly increase the lifespan and cost of these stressful disputes. ADR Systems’ arbitration services provide a structured, efficient and binding alternative to litigation, where a neutral arbitrator of the parties’ choice renders a final, merits-based decision on the case in accordance with substantive law and the rules chosen by the parties.

If you are representing clients involved in a contract dispute and want to pursue arbitration as an alternative to litigation, explore our Find A Neutral page to review the biographies of neutrals with experience arbitrating contract disputes. If you would like to include an ADR clause in your contract, use our Model Clause Language.

Neutral Availability

How to Initiate Contract Arbitration

Contract Clause
If the clause language does not provide for arbitration under ADR Systems’ Commercial Arbitration Rules, or there is no arbitration clause in the contract, the parties can agree to arbitrate with ADR Systems using our Stipulation Form.

Submit a Demand
If the parties have not stipulated to arbitration or if there is clause language providing for arbitration by ADR Systems, the parties must complete and sign a Demand for Arbitration.

Select an Arbitrator
Parties co-select neutrals or request appointment under the rules. Inquire about specific neutral availability through our Neutral Availability Form or Contact Form.

Administrative Conference
Case managers at ADR Systems coordinate an administrative conference call to set hearing dates, discovery scope, witness schedules and briefing timelines.

Hearing & Award
Parties proceed with the hearing in the agreed upon format. The arbitrator issues a written, enforceable award.

What Is Contract Arbitration?

Contract arbitration is defined as a formal, adjudicatory process that replaces court litigation. Here’s how it works at ADR Systems:

  • Binding Decision-Making: Parties select a single arbitrator or a tri-panel who hear evidence and arguments before rendering a binding award — final and enforceable in court, with limited grounds for appeal under the Federal Arbitration Act.
  • Flexible yet Formal Procedures: Arbitration follows streamlined rules such as ADR Systems’ Commercial Arbitration Rules or other jointly selected rules.
  • Neutral Selection: Parties nominate an arbitrator — or if they cannot agree, ADR Systems appoints one consistent with agreed-upon rules.
  • Efficient & Private: Compared to unpredictable court timelines, arbitration is a quicker process and private – protecting sensitive business information.
  • Cost Savings: The streamlined process of arbitration reduces discovery, motion practice and overhead costs.

Advantages of Arbitrating Contract Disputes with ADR Systems

Experienced Neutrals
Our panel includes former judges and seasoned attorneys with deep experience adjudicating contract cases — everything from breach of contract and termination to payment issues and non-performance.

Tailored Arbitration Rules
Choose from ADR Systems’ comprehensive, user-friendly arbitration rules, or opt for customized rules that match your needs — whether for expedited resolution, or resolution of a single claim.

Efficient Case Management
Our trained case managers support you every step of the way — by coordinating logistics, managing deadlines and streamlining communications between the parties and arbitration panel.

Multiple Hearing Formats
Choose in-person, remote or hybrid hearings — our neutrals and support staff provide secure, professional services regardless of how parties wish to participate.

Common Contract Arbitration Matters

Our arbitrators handle a wide array of contract-related disputes, including but not limited to:

  • Breach of contract
  • Payment disputes
  • Quality of goods/services
  • Contract renewal or termination
  • Breach of non‑compete agreements
  • Non-performance
  • Fraud

"Judge Axelrood worked magic for both sides and was able to achieve a settlement in our matter. I can’t say enough about his skills, demeanor and persistence in bringing the parties together."

Robert L. Fogel, Esq.Fogel Law Offices
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