BBB Mediation & Arbitration
BBB offers alternative dispute resolution for ongoing disputes that are not resolved through our normal complaint processing. We offer both arbitration and mediation as means of resolving those disputes.
Mediation and Arbitration are both methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The BBB ADR program provides an opportunity to have a matter resolved outside the judicial system.
BBB Accredited Businesses are required to mediate/arbitrate disputes at the recommendation of the BBB. All BBB ADR services are voluntary and are cost effective alternatives for consumers.
Mediation & Arbitration Fees
• BBB Accredited Businesses are permitted one Mediation or Arbitration at no cost.
• Other Mediation or Arbitration service is $500 per service.*
*Cost to be shared by the parties involved.
Mediation-
An Informal Method of Dispute Resolution
Mediation is an informal method of dispute resolution. It is process of cooperation where all parties work together towards a resolution that meets each party’s interest. A trained Mediator will assist the parties in reaching a resolution of their problem within the Mediation Process.
Mediation is:
• Mediation allows the parties to reach an agreement that is a win-win, because its terms are determined by the parties involved.
• The Decision making of the Mediation Process will rest solely with the parties, who will be assisted in exploring settlement alternatives with the aid of the Mediator.
• The parties will develop a shared understanding of the conflict and have a willingness to build a practical resolution to their conflict.
The Mediation Process offer many flexible possibilities for resolving a dispute and the parties will have control of the resolution.
Mediation takes less time than court and less expense, because the parties do not have to seek the aid of legal counsel.
The agreement reached by the parties may be enforced in a court of law.
Arbitration-
An Informal Method of Dispute Resolution
Arbitration is an informal method of dispute Resolution. The decision of the dispute is rendered by a trained impartial Arbitrator, after having heard all verbal testimony, reviewed all written documentation and, in certain instances, having performed a physical inspection of the services or product in dispute.
Arbitration is:
• Arbitration will provide an opportunity to have closure of a dispute with the rendering of a binding decision in each case.
• The opportunity to have your case heard by an impartial arbitrator without fixed rules of evidence, like court.
• All parties agree to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator by signing an Agreement to Arbitrate that determines the guidelines of the arbitrator’s decision.
• The parties have an opportunity to be provided an arbitrator who is trained in the need area of expertise or to have the opportunity to have an expert provide evidence as requested.
All decisions rendered in arbitration may be enforceable in a court of law.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Working For The Community
Protects Ongoing Relationships
Impartial Process
Bridging Gaps in Communication
More Expedient & Less Expensive than Court
Restores Trust in the Marketplace
For more details please contact Connie Brown at 404-762-4405 or via email at autoline@atlanta.bbb.org. If you would like to fax your request please do so at 678-539-2759.