Binding vs. Non-binding:

·        Binding arbitration: The arbitrator's decision is final and enforceable in court. 

·        Non-binding arbitration: The arbitrator's decision is an opinion, and the       

         parties are free to accept or reject it and proceed to court if they disagree. 

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How it works:

·        Agreement: Parties must agree to arbitrate their dispute, either in a contract or

         separately. 

·        Arbitrator: A neutral third party is chosen to hear the case. 

·        Hearing: The arbitrator conducts a hearing where both sides present their

         case and evidence. 

·        Decision: The arbitrator renders a decision, which is then binding or non-binding, depending on the agreement. 

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Advantages:

·        Faster and less expensive than litigation. 

·        More informal than court proceedings. 

·        Confidential: Arbitration proceedings are typically private. 

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Disadvantages:

·        Limited appeal: Arbitration decisions are difficult to overturn. 

·        No discovery: Parties may not have access to all evidence. 

·        Enforcement issues: It can be difficult to enforce arbitration awards. 

 

Florida Arbitration Code:

The Florida Arbitration Code (Chapter 682 of the Florida Statutes) governs arbitration in Florida. 

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Appellate Review:

The Florida Arbitration Code was revised in 2013 to include the option of appellate review, but only if the parties choose to make provision for it in their arbitration clause.