Arbitration is a great way to acheive finality to a personal injury case in Massachusetts. Here are 10 reasons that make arbitration so appealing:
1) it is relatively inexpensive;
2) it is quick;
3) it is relaxed;
4) the rules of evidence are relaxed;
5) the parties can mutually agree on an arbitrator;
6) it gives both parties a 'mini trial' without having to go through the stresses that a public trial in front of a judge and jury brings;
7) it provides for greater predictability since an arbitrator – who is always an attorney – understands the law and the value of case, unlike a jury of non-attorneys;
8) it allows the parties to have a 'high/low' agreement which insures that the injury victim will not walk with nothing;
9) it eliminates for the insurance company the possibility of a 'run-away' jury verdict;
10) it allows for the injury victim an opportunity for a full cup of justice without having to go to court.