Arbitration is a private case settlement technique ideal for resolving family and matrimonial law-related matters. Unlike litigation, arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that settles a legal dispute without resorting to a judicial trial. It is frequently used in family law matters, including divorce, child custody, alimony/spousal support, child support, distribution of marital property and special relief issues. Although arbitration is similar to a trial — with the two disputing parties presenting evidence, testimony, and experts with lawyers present — it is generally a much faster and often less expensive approach to obtaining a divorce.

The experienced family law attorneys at Williams Family Law, P.C., understand the needs of individuals and families. When family law disputes arise, our firm strives to help both individuals and families resolve divorce, support and custody related issues in an efficient and amicable manner.

Our Value: Decades of Experience as Family Law Attorneys in Bucks County

At Williams Family Law, we advise clients about the benefits of arbitration and provide them with experienced legal representation throughout the arbitration process. Our attorneys understand the sensitive nature of life-changing circumstances that arise when individuals are faced with family and matrimonial legal issues and we want to help our clients to resolve their issues as quickly and smoothly as possible. We pride ourselves on our reputation as leaders in the legal profession and we offer legal representation that is personalized, responsive, and knowledgeable to meet each client’s needs throughout the arbitration process. As a result of our extensive experience with handling family law matters, we are confident in our ability to offer experienced arbitration assistance.

Overview of the Family Law Arbitration Process

Before family law arbitration begins, the attorneys and the parties and their representative attorneys consult with the arbitrator — a neutral third-party that hears and considers the facts and arguments presented by the disputing parties — to review the details of the arbitration, including anticipated duration, attendees, witnesses and exhibits. At the arbitration hearing, the cases are presented similar to a court proceeding. At the conclusion of the arbitration process, the arbitrator presents the final binding decision based upon the facts presented and the laws in Pennsylvania.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Family Law Arbitration

Compared to litigation, an arbitration proceeding generally offers expeditious and less expensive approach that ensures closure for the divorcing parties. In certain divorce cases, where closure may be the main goal of the parties, the primary advantage of using a neutral third-party as an arbitrator is the ability to arrive at a resolution in an expedient manner. It is often less adversarial, which can help to protect the relationship of the soon-to-be ex-spouses and their families.

It is important for a divorcing couple to realize that arbitration is a binding process. It does not allow parties to control the outcome. In comparison to family law mediation, arbitration often does generally not provide the same cost and time savings nor does it allow the disputing parties to benefit from the problem-solving, relation-building processes of mediation.

Contact Us for Experienced Arbitration Service in Bucks County

If you are seeking to resolve your divorce in a more efficient and less confrontational manner, the experienced family law attorneys at Williams Family Law are here to help. To discuss alternative dispute resolution options with an experienced family law attorney, please contact our office.