How Arbitd Works
Arbitd uses a Med-Arb process: we first attempt mediation, and if that fails, we proceed immediately to binding arbitration. The entire process is conducted online, served by email, and usually completed within 60 days.
Claimant Files the Case
The party initiating the proceeding (Claimant) creates an account, describes the dispute, uploads any initial documents, agrees to the Arbitd Rules of Arbitration, and pays the filing fee. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.
- Provide dispute description and claim amount
- Upload contract, correspondence, or other supporting documents
- Identify respondent (name, email, address)
- Sign the arbitration agreement electronically
- Pay filing fee by credit card (starting at $150)
Respondent is Served by Email
Immediately upon case filing, Arbitd sends the Respondent a formal notice by email containing the case number, a summary of the claim, and a secure link to access the full claim and file a response. Email delivery is tracked and recorded in the case audit log.
- Formal service email sent automatically upon filing
- Delivery and open events tracked and logged
- Respondent receives 30 days to file a response
- Automatic reminders sent at 14, 7, and 1 day before deadline
- If email fails, arbitrator is notified to arrange alternative service
Respondent Files an Answer
The Respondent logs in using the secure link, reviews the claim, and files a formal answer. The answer may admit or deny the allegations and may include counterclaims. The Respondent also signs the arbitration submission agreement.
- No account required — secure one-time link for initial access
- Answer must address each allegation in the claim
- Counterclaims may be filed with the answer
- Upload supporting documents with the answer
- Electronically sign the Arbitd submission agreement
Mediation Phase
Before arbitration, the parties attempt to resolve the dispute through mediation facilitated by the arbitrator. Either party may submit a settlement proposal (with or without a monetary amount). The other party may accept, reject, or counter. The arbitrator may post facilitation messages.
- Either party may initiate with a settlement proposal
- Counter-proposals and threaded responses supported
- Arbitrator may issue non-binding guidance
- No mediation communications are used in the arbitration if mediation fails
- If both parties accept a proposal, the case is marked Settled
Arbitration — Evidence Submission
If mediation does not result in a settlement, the case proceeds to the arbitration phase. Both parties submit all evidence, exhibits, and written arguments to the secure case portal. The arbitrator sets submission deadlines.
- All documentary evidence uploaded to secure case portal
- Written argument/brief submitted by each party
- Witness statements may be submitted in writing
- Arbitrator may request clarification or additional submissions
- No in-person hearings — fully written proceedings
Deliberation — AI-Assisted Review
The arbitrator reviews all submitted materials. An AI assistant (Claude) summarizes documents, identifies key disputed issues, extracts key facts from each party's submissions, and assists in drafting the award. All AI output is reviewed and approved by the arbitrator before issuance.
- AI-generated summary of all submitted evidence
- Key facts and disputed issues identified
- AI-drafted award reviewed and edited by arbitrator
- All final decisions are made exclusively by the human arbitrator
- AI is a drafting and review tool only — never the decision-maker
Final Award
The arbitrator issues a written, reasoned Final Award. The award includes findings of fact, conclusions of law, and the relief granted. It is delivered simultaneously to both parties by email and through the secure portal.
- Written award with findings of fact and conclusions of law
- Delivered simultaneously to both parties by email + portal
- Award is final and binding — very limited grounds for challenge
- Enforceable in any federal or state court under the FAA
- Award delivery confirmed and logged in audit trail
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer?
No. Parties may represent themselves or be represented by counsel. The process is designed to be accessible to non-lawyers, with clear instructions at every step.
What if the respondent ignores the notice?
If the respondent fails to respond by the deadline, the arbitrator may issue a default award in favor of the claimant based on the evidence submitted.
Is the award really enforceable?
Yes. Arbitd awards are binding arbitration awards under the Federal Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. §§ 1–16). They can be confirmed as judgments in any federal district court and in most state courts.
Can the losing party appeal?
There are very limited grounds to challenge an arbitration award under the FAA — essentially only fraud, corruption, or an arbitrator exceeding authority. The award cannot be challenged for legal error, which is what makes arbitration fast and final.
What types of disputes can be arbitrated?
Arbitd handles commercial, consumer, contract, and business disputes. Employment disputes and certain consumer disputes may be subject to special rules. We do not handle family law, criminal, or immigration matters.