Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Alabama

Arbitration
My deck contractor has presented me with a form to sign agreeing to have any dispute between us settled by arbitration.

I do not want to sign this form up front as I do not know what the dispute will be. If, for instance, the deck were unsafe after installation and someone got hurt as a result, am I correct in thinking that if I have signed this form I would not be able to sue the company for negligence?

Asked on 11/15/06, 10:34 pm

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Re: Arbitration

Any dispute you had in the future would be determined by an arbitration judge as opposed to a jury. You are not giving up your right to ever bring your dispute but you are giving up the right to a jury trial in your County Court.

For the instillation of a deck you could sign the arbitration agreement; however, I would take extra steps to make sure the contractor is bonded. Ask if you can get a copy of his insurance certification before you sign.

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Answered on 11/16/06, 10:34 am

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