Whether you realize it or not, you’ve probably signed a contract that included an arbitration clause. These provisions are in seemingly every agreement – from credit card terms, to cell phone plans, to loan agreements, to rental car contracts and more.
Arbitration clauses, which are often a few short sentences tucked into a multi-page contract, typically dictate that the parties to the agreement give up their right to bring a lawsuit and agree to settle any disputes out of court via binding arbitration. Usually, this means that a lawyer, not a judge or jury, rules on disputes. On top of that, these clauses also usually require that the parties split the arbitration costs.
Once used primarily in business agreements, arbitration clauses are now widespread in contracts for health care at long-term care facilities, nursing homes, assisted living, and similar establishments. However, as TheNew York Times reports, one advocacy group has a recommendation for those faced a contract that has an arbitration clause: Cross it out.
Contact attorney Danny Biederman if you or a loved one have been harmed by inadequate or improper care at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or other health care setting.