Arbitration & Mediation

Arbitration and mediation are time-tested, cost-effective alternatives to litigation. Arbitration is the submission of a dispute to one or more impartial persons for a final and binding decision, known as an "award." Awards are made in writing and are generally final and binding on the parties in the case. Mediation, on the other hand, is a process in which an impartial third party facilitates communication and negotiation and promotes voluntary decision making by the parties to the dispute. This process can be effective for resolving disputes prior to arbitration or litigation.

The AAA's arbitration and mediation services include access to its superior case management services, well-screened expert neutrals who undergo continuous training, and the AAA's Rules and Procedures that govern the various ADR processes.

AAA neutrals--mediators and arbitrators--possess years of industry-specific knowledge and experience. The AAA's National Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators includes more than 7,000 neutrals located throughout the world. Their conduct is guided by the Association's Code of Ethics, and information about AAA neutrals is available to parties who have already filed a case.

The AAA's Rules and Procedures cover arbitrations and mediations across a wide variety of industries and case types. These rules and procedures detail the steps in the resolution process and ensure that all parties to a case are treated fairly and equitably. The commercial, consumer, employment and labor rules, as well as the rules for state programs can be found in this section of the website.