Baker & Daniels litigators represent clients in the full range of arbitrations and mediations. Our lawyers have amassed broad experience with arbitrations as they have continued to become more common in larger business disputes. Likewise, as more and more courts require mediation as a predicate to trial, Baker & Daniels litigators have broad knowledge of both mediation strategy and the panels from which mediators are appointed.
Advantages of arbitration and mediation include:
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Accelerated resolution of the case;
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Reduced cost because of limited discovery and motion practice;
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Selection of neutrals with expertise in handling the specific type of case;
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Unavailability of a jury trial;
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Virtual inability to appeal the case;
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Confidentiality associated with the alternative dispute resolution process; and
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Less adversarial nature of alternative dispute resolution.
Baker & Daniels' first task is to explain the differences between arbitrations, mediations and traditional litigation, particularly if the client is faced with a choice of which method of dispute resolution to utilize. We share our expertise and experience with clients on the frequently-cited advantages and disadvantages of the forms of dispute resolution and do our best to dispel myths that have developed about the various methods. Then, we evaluate the particular controversy in question to determine how the unique characteristics of each dispute resolution method can produce optimal results for the client.
We prepare for and present each aspect of an arbitration case in a fashion that takes advantage of the benefits of arbitration based upon our collective knowledge and experience. We help choose the right arbitrators and minimize costs through techniques that are unique to arbitration.
We have arbitrated a wide variety of complex cases including:
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An Indianapolis 500 driver's claim that a car owner improperly terminated his driver's agreement and deprived him of winnings earned in subsequent races.
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Breach of contract claims by interstate contract carriers and contested accounting upon termination.
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Claims growing out of the project "Rehabilitation of Bridges and Pavement on Interstate 94" in northwest Indiana.
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Construction and cost overrun claims in multiple additional cases throughout the U.S.
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Claims for damages sustained by a distributor of products when terminated by the manufacturer.