Arbitration

At Touchstone Family Law, we understand that family law matters are deeply personal and often emotionally challenging. We also recognize that the lack of efficiency and cost of traditional litigation is often frustrating, which can make arbitration a good alternative. Touchstone Family Law has experienced, skilled family law attorneys available to assist you during arbitration, or to serve as a neutral arbitrator.

What is Family Law Arbitration?

Family law arbitration is a private dispute resolution process where parties agree to have a neutral arbitrator – rather than a judge – make binding decisions on family law matters. Under North Carolina’s Family Law Arbitration Act, couples can arbitrate virtually any matter that arises out of a marriage or partnership, including issues surrounding: 

• Property division – Equitable distribution of marital assets and debts
• Alimony and spousal support – Post-separation support and alimony determinations
• Child custody – Legal and physical custody arrangements
• Child support – Financial support obligations
• Attorney’s fees – Cost allocation between parties

Why Choose Arbitration Over Traditional Litigation?

Privacy and Confidentiality

Unlike public court proceedings, arbitration hearings are private, which prevents your family’s personal details from becoming public record.

Speed and Efficiency

Court dockets are crowded, often resulting in delays of months or even years. Arbitration allows you to:

• schedule hearings at your convenience
• avoid lengthy court backlogs
• reach resolution faster than traditional litigation

Cost-Effective Resolution

While arbitration involves arbitrator fees, and attorney fees if you are represented, it often proves more cost-effective than protracted court battles by:

• reducing attorney time through streamlined procedures
• minimizing court appearances
• accelerating the resolution timeline

What If I Don’t Like the Result of My Family Law Arbitration? 

Usually, the court accepts an arbitration award the same way it would a court decision, though there are limited situations in which the award can be changed or set aside. Court oversight is always available for: 

• emergency relief and protective orders
• interim measures before the arbitration
• enforcement of arbitration awards
• review of arbitration awards that affect children
• appeals on procedural grounds

How Much Does Family Law Arbitration Cost?

Costs vary based on the complexity of the matter and the arbitrator’s fees, which are generally billed at an hourly rate. The hourly rate for a neutral arbitrator varies, and is based on the arbitrator’s experience with North Carolina family law issues. Every family’s issues are unique, and big factors of the cost are the time expended, the difficulty of the problems, and how succinctly the parties present their case. 

If you’re facing a family law matter and want to explore a more private, efficient alternative to traditional litigation, contact Touchstone Family Law today. Our experienced attorneys will listen, evaluate your situation and help to determine if family law arbitration is the right path forward for your family.