Securities Arbitration ? Often times, the word arbitration or arbitrator is thrown around during discussions pertaining to every or any legal issues. But what does an arbitrator do? And what is securities arbitration?

In very simple terms, arbitration is a simple way to describe a legal resolution process—which acts as an alternative to lawsuits in court. Rather than having issues or problems decided by a judge and jury—both separate parties agree to an arbitration expert to resolve their problems in an impartial and knowledgeable way.

Arbitration is a concept that has existed for a long time in the legal history of the court—however there is some basic knowledge that any parties seeking an arbitrator should be aware of: that an arbitration award is final and binding, subject to court review in only limited cases…so when it comes to a dispute resolution, say securities arbitration, both parties are essentially giving up their right to a trial court—and the said courts process.

Securities arbitration is essentially the business persons way of dispute resolution. There are various laws in different states for the securities arbitration process; however this article will attempt to describe the basic process of securities arbitration Essentially during the process many disputes can and will likely arise; however it is up to the arbitrator taking care of the securities arbitration that will ultimately make the informed decision.

First the arbitration process must begin, before anything is to happen. Essentially a claim must be filed that details the dispute, along with a submission agreement, and a fee—which will vary per state. Depending on the complexity and circumstance of the securities arbitration –the fee could be greater or less.

The submission agreement referred to earlier—is a crucial key to the securities arbitration process. This is often referred to as the Uniform Submission Agreement—which lists the grievances of each party, and also acts as an agreement to leave the issue and decision up to an arbitrator.

After that has been done—a hearing will need to be scheduled by the parties and the arbitration expert themselves. The hearing will allow for the cross examination of witnesses and various claims that hold stake in the particular securities arbitration case. Ultimately after the hearing proceedings take place—it will be up to the arbitrator to make a decision based on the evidence that both parties presents.

Ultimately after the whole process is finished—a party or parties will be awarded. The arbitration award—does not by law have to be in a specific form; however many states require the award to be presented in writing and signed by the arbitrator. Arbitrators however don’t have to provide a reason for the decision or even a statement to explain the figure behind the securities arbitration. Ultimately the award will likely contain a brief factual statement of the dispute—along with a decision that is typically very brief.

Securities arbitration is a complex process, but can offer a cost effective solution to complex legal disputes—although the process is different, the result is the same—a streamlined solution to your legal disputes.


Michael Harrison Arbitration provides only the best securities arbitration los angeles and mediation services in all of Los Angeles and Ventura County. For an arbitration expert that has over 20 years of experience, be sure to give the office a call at 818-224-5600. As a member of the American Arbitration Association, Michael Harrison has various experience in dealing with securities arbitration los ang