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What if I have already been awarded an amount through Arbitration? The Contractor didnt even show up. How do I proceed

WashingtonLawsuit

What if I have already been awarded an amount through Arbitration?

1 reply

Oct 9, 2019
If a contractor failed to attend mandatory arbitration, and if an award was given against that contractor, then the party who received the award may be entitled to file suit to enforce or "confirm" the arbitration award. If that's done, a court will generally order that the arbitration award be followed. Unlike traditional lawsuits, an arbitration award is treated more like a judgment that's already been won - and the court can compel the contractor to abide by the arbitration award. Of course, this is all under the assumption that there was a valid arbitration clause in the contract or that the contractor otherwise agreed to enter arbitration. And, it's also worth noting that a contractor could challenge the arbitrator's award or even the validity of a purported arbitration agreement. If you have an arbitration award in hand and the contractor is refusing to pay, it would likely be worthwhile to consult a local attorney familiar with arbitration proceedings. They'll be able to review the arbitration agreement, the award, and any other relevant information, then advise on how best to proceed with collecting the award.
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