Can I require customers to sign contracts with binding arbitration clauses in Washington? What are the requirements?

Here is the response to your query:

Requirements for Binding Arbitration Clauses in Washington

Yes, you can require customers to sign contracts with binding arbitration clauses in Washington. However, there are certain requirements that must be met.

According to WAAC 44-10-030, a consumer must submit a request for arbitration form with copies of supporting documentation to the Attorney General’s Office, Lemon Law Administration in Seattle or in the Attorney General’s Office in Spokane, in order to apply for the new motor vehicle arbitration process. The request for arbitration form will be supplied, upon request, by the attorney general’s office.

Additionally, WARC 41.80.130 outlines the enforcement of collective bargaining agreements and the use of arbitrators. For the purposes of implementing final and binding arbitration under grievance procedures required by RCW 41.80.030, the parties to a collective bargaining agreement may agree on one or more permanent umpires to serve as arbitrator, or may agree on any impartial person to serve as arbitrator, or may agree to select arbitrators from any source available to them, including federal and private agencies, in addition to the staff and list of arbitrators maintained by the commission.

In summary, you can require customers to sign contracts with binding arbitration clauses in Washington, but the requirements vary depending on the type of agreement and the circumstances surrounding the dispute. It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional to ensure that your binding arbitration clause meets all necessary requirements.

^{[2.1] [6.1] [3.3]}

Source(s):

• [2.1] Arbitration requests.
• [6.1] Agreements—Authorized provisions.
• [3.3] Interest arbitration panel decision to be final—Superior court jurisdiction and review—Not binding on legislature.

Jurisdiction

Washington

• General