No arbitration clause in your contract? You’re one angry client away from a public legal nightmare.
What’s At Stake
Table of Contents
A venue recently spent $50,000 fighting a simple dispute in court. Their competitor down the road? Solved the same issue in mediation for $2,500. The difference? Four simple paragraphs in their contract.
Why You Need Forum Clauses
Court Battles Cost You
- Legal fees start at $15,000
- Cases drag for months
- Public records forever
- Business disruption
- Reputation damage
Mediation Saves You
- Faster resolution
- Lower costs
- Private process
- Better control
- Maintained relationships
Make It Work
Your forum clause should specify:
- Required mediation first
- Arbitration if mediation fails
- Cost-sharing arrangements
- Timeline requirements
- Process details
Common Pushback
“But clients won’t like it!”
- Most never notice
- Standard in contracts
- Protects both parties
- Shows professionalism
- Speeds resolution
The Privacy Factor
Court cases are public record. Forever. That means:
- Anyone can read details
- Media can report freely
- Competitors see everything
- Internet never forgets
- Reviews mention it
Bottom Line
Add that forum clause now. Not after you need it.
Need help crafting solid forum clauses? Let’s talk before that dispute hits court.
