What is an arbitration clause?
Plain-English explanation. General information only — not legal advice.
The short version
An arbitration clause says that if there's a disagreement about the agreement, it will be decided by a private arbitrator instead of a judge or jury in court.
Where you'll usually see it
Near the end of the document, often under a heading like “Dispute Resolution,” “Arbitration,” or “Governing Law.” It's common in leases, employment agreements, and terms of service.
Details that change how it works
Who selects the arbitrator, who pays the arbitration fees, where arbitration takes place, whether it is binding, and whether it blocks class actions. Two arbitration clauses can read the same and work very differently.
What ShieldMyDoc does with it
ShieldMyDoc flags the clause, quotes the relevant text when it can locate it, explains it in plain English, and suggests questions. It does not tell you whether the clause is enforceable or whether you should sign.
Questions you may want to ask
- Who chooses the arbitrator, and who pays the costs?
- Is arbitration binding, and can I still go to small-claims court?
- Where would arbitration take place?
- Does this clause waive class actions?
Is this clause in your document?
Upload your PDF and see what it says in plain English.