By Jeana Goosmann, Founder, CEO, and Practicing Attorney, Goosmann Law Firm
No Public Courtroom. Keep your grievances private.
In today’s fast-paced business world where drama goes viral, the courtroom isn’t always the best place to resolve a dispute. More and more companies—small businesses and global corporations alike—are turning to private arbitration to resolve legal issues in less time and quietly. Whether you’re negotiating vendor agreements, employment contracts, shareholder documents, or customer terms, arbitration may be the strategic edge your business needs. As an arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association (AAA)—a role akin to serving as a private judge—I’ve seen firsthand how arbitration can empower businesses to take control of conflict and reduce the risks, delays, and exposure that come with litigation. At Goosmann Law Firm, our attorneys understand both sides of the arbitration process: we draft solid provisions, evaluate their fit in your contracts, and advocate fiercely when it’s time to put those provisions into action.
What Is Arbitration—and Why Should You Care?
Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process where the parties agree to have their legal disagreements decided by a neutral third party (an arbitrator), outside of court. The arbitrator’s decision—called an award—is legally binding and enforceable, just like a court judgment.
Why more businesses are choosing arbitration:
- Faster Resolutions: Avoid clogged court dockets and endless delays.
- Lower Costs: Especially for commercial and employment matters.
- Privacy & Confidentiality: Keep sensitive information out of the public eye.
- Control Over the Process: Choose your arbitrator, customize procedures.
- Finality: Fewer appeals means fewer surprises.
However, arbitration may not be suitable in situations where a party anticipates the need for appellate review, extensive discovery, or seeks to establish legal precedent—objectives more aligned with traditional litigation processes.
Arbitration Is Everywhere—And Often Hidden in Plain Sight
Arbitration provisions are quietly shaping how business disputes get resolved. You’ll find them in operating agreements, commercial leases, vendor contracts, customer terms, and employee handbooks. Many businesses include them—without fully understanding their impact.We often meet clients only after a dispute arises, surprised to learn that:
- Their contract requires arbitration.
- The rules limit discovery.
- They waived the right to a jury trial.
That’s why now is the time to review your agreements—before a conflict arises.
Our Team Knows Arbitration—Inside and Out
At Goosmann Law Firm, we bring a unique advantage: I serve on the exclusive AAA Commercial, General and Consumer Arbitration Panels. That means I’ve been vetted and selected among a national group of respected professionals to serve as an arbitrator—an honor held by a small fraction of attorneys. By sitting in the seat of the Arbitrator, I see first hand how cases are effectively handled. This experience allows us to:
- Draft enforceable, strategic arbitration provisions tailored to your business goals.
- Evaluate whether arbitration is right for you—it’s not always the best fit.
- Navigate the rules, timelines, and strategy of arbitration proceedings.
- Advocate for you effectively—whether you’re the claimant or respondent.
In short, we’re not just playing the game. We know how the field is built.
Make Arbitration Work for You—Not to You
Whether you’re entering a new business relationship or reassessing your risk strategy, arbitration deserves a seat at the table. A well-drafted clause can protect your bottom line. A poorly written one can backfire. Our lawyers know the difference—and how to position you for success.
Let’s Talk.
Want to know if arbitration belongs in your contracts—or how to enforce one already in place? Contact your Goosmann Law Firm attorney today. We’re here to help you win disputes before they ever begin.