Arbitration: What It Is and How It Works

Arbitration is a formal dispute-resolution process for conflicts involving FINRA‑registered brokers and their clients or disputes between brokers. It provides a final, binding decision by an arbitration panel and is distinct from mediation (which is voluntary and nonbinding unless both sides agree) and from filing an investor complaint (which reports alleged wrongdoing but is not itself a damages claim).

How Arbitration Works

Who administers it: The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) administers arbitration for disputes involving FINRA‑registered firms and brokers.
Filing a claim: An investor or broker files a claim stating the alleged misconduct and the damages sought. FINRA then processes the claim and assigns the case to an arbitration forum.
Panel composition: FINRA generally appoints arbitrators from its roster. For larger claims, panels commonly include industry and non‑industry arbitrators; unless a party requests otherwise, arbitrators are typically not current securities‑industry employees. Parties may request replacement if they suspect a bias.
Decision: Arbitration awards are final and binding on the parties and are subject to only very limited judicial review. Arbitrators are not required to provide detailed written explanations for their rulings.

Hearing Formats by Claim Size

Under $50,000: No in‑person hearing is required; parties typically submit written materials to a single arbitrator.
$50,000–$100,000: In‑person hearings with a single arbitrator are common.
Over $100,000: In‑person hearings with a three‑arbitrator panel are standard. A majority (two of three) controls the outcome.

Representation, Costs, and Procedure

Representation: Parties may represent themselves or hire counsel. Arbitration proceedings are generally less formal than court litigation, which can make self‑representation feasible for some investors.
Costs: Filing fees and other arbitration costs apply. Parties should weigh arbitration fees, attorney fees (if applicable), and travel/time expenses against potential recovery.
Evidence and rules: Arbitration procedures follow evidentiary and procedural rules set by the forum; they are typically more streamlined than courtroom procedures.

Special Considerations

Awards may be partial: Even if a claimant prevails, the panel may award less than the amount sought.
Binding nature: Arbitration awards are final and enforceable; appeals are limited and difficult.
Mediation vs arbitration: FINRA also offers mediation, which is nonbinding unless both parties agree to a settlement.
Criticisms and oversight: Consumer advocates have raised concerns about panel diversity, potential conflicts of interest, and safeguards against bias. FINRA has defended its procedures and selection methods.
Mandatory arbitration clauses: Many brokerage agreements require investors to resolve disputes through mandatory arbitration rather than court litigation. Because FINRA administers most securities arbitration, it is the primary forum for these disputes.

Key Takeaways

Arbitration is a binding, FINRA‑administered process for resolving disputes with FINRA‑registered brokers.
It is often faster and less costly than a lawsuit but involves filing and administrative fees.
Hearing format depends on the amount in dispute: written single‑arbitrator decisions for smaller claims and in‑person panels for larger claims.
Awards can be less than requested, and appeals are limited.
Many brokerage contracts require mandatory arbitration, making FINRA arbitration the common avenue for investor claims.