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Resolve your legal matters online at a fraction of the cost in around 60 days

Online Arbitration Centre

What is Online Arbitration?

Online arbitration, while similar in concept to traditional arbitration, is conducted entirely or partially online using digital platforms. This method leverages technology to simplify the dispute resolution process by cutting out the need for physical appearances, extended hearings, and even witness testimonies. Online arbitration is typically more affordable, quicker, and significantly more accessible, with the same binding authority as traditional methods.

Why Choose Online Arbitration?

Online arbitration takes the benefits of arbitration a step further by offering a modern, efficient, and cost-effective approach to dispute resolution. With the ability to handle cases entirely online, businesses gain additional advantages that traditional arbitration cannot provide. Read More

Fast

Online Arbitration proceedings are streamlined and efficient. Disputes can be resolved in as little as 60 days.

Cost-Effective

Online Arbitration is much more affordable. Unlike traditional litigation, fees are capped - meaning that you know exactly how much the process will cost from day one.

User-Friendly

You can complete the entire online arbitration process independently, without needing extensive legal knowledge or assistance.

Confidential

Online arbitration keeps disputes private, so your sensitive information remains confidential, helping maintain professional relationships and trust.

The Process of Online Arbitration

1

Agree to Arbitration

Include an Online Arbitration clause in contracts for all parties to agree to online arbitration in case of breach.

2

Classify the Claim

The Online Arbitration rules apply to any claim, based on an outstanding invoice.

3

Arbitrator Issues Ruling

The required information is simple, and the form can be completed in minutes. This document serves as your claim. Download the form here.

4

File Defence

Upon receiving the Request for Online Arbitration form, the respondent (other party) must submit their reason for non-payment to the Centre.

5

Complete Request for Arbitration Form

All disputes reported to the Centre will be resolved by one arbitrator with at least 10 years’ experience in their field.

6

Award Made an Order of Court

The Online Arbitration award is final and can be made an order of court.

  • How does Online Arbitration compare to other options?
    Online arbitration is faster, more affordable, and entirely digital compared to traditional litigation or arbitration. With online arbitration, there are no in-person appearances, no extended hearings, and no drawn-out appeals, allowing disputes to be resolved in as little as 60 days. Unlike litigation, online arbitration is private and confidential, protecting your business reputation and preserving relationships.
  • Do I have a choice of Arbitrator?
    Yes, we understand that each case is unique. Online Arbitration Centre ensures arbitrators are matched based on expertise relevant to your case, providing you with a fair and informed ruling. You may request a different arbitrator if one is available and suitable for your case type.
  • How long does Online Arbitration take?
    Online arbitration typically takes 60 to 90 days from start to finish, depending on the complexity of the case and the responsiveness of both parties. This is significantly shorter than traditional litigation or arbitration, which can take several months to years.
  • Do I need a lawyer for Online Arbitration?
    No, you don’t need a lawyer to participate in online arbitration. The process is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, allowing businesses to handle cases independently. You may consult your legal advisor for assistance with drafting all documentation and preparing your affidavit.
  • What does Online Arbitration cost?
    Online arbitration offers capped, predictable fees, so you know the cost from the outset. Unlike traditional litigation or arbitration, which can incur high, unpredictable fees, our fee structure is affordable, allowing businesses to resolve disputes without financial strain. 2.5.1 Registration Fee is payable by the Applicant on date of registration: R5, 000.00 for claims of R1.00 to R75,000.00; R7,000.00 for claims of R75,000.01 to R200,000.00; R10,000.00 for claims of R200,000.01 to R400,000.00; R20,000.00 for claims of R400,000.01 to R1,000,000.00; R30,000.00 for claims of R1,000,000.01 and above. PLUS an Arbitration Fee of R 5,000.00 or 10% of the capital claimed, up to a maximum fee of R150,000.00, whichever is the greater. The Arbitration Fee will be payable within 14 days of registration of the claim. The Arbitration Fee is payble by the Applicant. (all amounts exclude VAT) 2.5.2 If there is a counterclaim instituted by the Respondent, the Respondent shall be responsible to also pay a Registration Fee as set out above to register his/her counterclaim plus an Arbitration Fee of R5,000.00 or 10% of the counterclaim amount, up to a maximum amount of R150,000.00, whichever is greater. The Registration Fee together with the Arbitration Fee is due and payable by the Respondent on the date of filing the counterclaim. (all amounts exclude VAT) 2.5.3 If the Dispute registered by the Applicant is unopposed by the Respondent, the Arbitration Costs only consists of the Registration Fee PLUS an Arbitration Fee of 5% of the capital claimed by the Applicant, with a minimum Arbitration Fee of R 5,000.00 and a maximum Arbitration Fee of R75,000.00. (all amounts exclude VAT)
  • Can Online Arbitration benefit the future of my business?
    Yes, online arbitration provides long-term benefits for businesses by offering a fast, affordable, and confidential way to resolve disputes. This streamlined process minimizes disruptions and preserves business relationships, ultimately supporting healthy cash flow and protecting your reputation.
  • Is Online Arbitration legally binding?
    Yes, the decisions made through online arbitration are legally binding and enforceable, just like traditional arbitration or court rulings. This ensures that both parties must comply with the outcome, providing certainty and closure.
  • What types of disputes can be resolved through Online Arbitration?
    Online arbitration is ideal for financial, contractual, and commercial disputes, especially those that benefit from faster resolutions. This includes issues like overdue payments, contract breaches, and service disagreements.
  • Is Online Arbitration confidential?
    Absolutely. Online arbitration proceedings are conducted privately, and the details are kept confidential if both parties agree. This level of privacy protects sensitive business information and preserves professional relationships.
  • How do I begin the Online Arbitration process?
    Getting started is simple. Both parties must agree to resolve the dispute through online arbitration, and then you can submit the necessary documents. Our team is here to guide you through each step.

About Online Arbitration Centre

Businesses everywhere are faced with the prospect of costly and time-consuming legal proceedings when pursuing outstanding debt. Recognising these challenges, our founders, legal practitioners Hendre and Daleen Vorster, set out to offer business owners a better solution: Online Arbitration.

 

In 2016, the Online Arbitration Centre was established to help business owners recover the compensation they rightfully deserve for the work and services they rendered. The process is led by a team of impartial senior legal professionals who assess and review applications to ensure a fair and just outcome.

 

This initiative exemplifies innovation at its finest, demonstrating how the legal environment adapts to meet the needs of those it serves.

Illustration of the founder explaining what Online Arbitration Centre advantages is.
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