Question

In an arbitration proceeding, the arbitrator need not be a judge or even a lawyer. How, then, can the arbitrator's decision have the force of law and be binding on the parties involved

Answer 1

Arbitration is the method of alternative dispute resolution that is used by litigants.

Arbitration can be binding or non-binding .binding arbitration means that participant to the arbitration must follow arbitrator decision and court can enforce the decision.this mean the decision is final and can be appealed on very narrow grounds.Arbitration agreements involves following principle -

It must be valid,irrevocable and enforceable.

An arbitration agreement empowers the arbitrator to issue an award the agreement does not grant the arbitrator the power to enforce the award.more often than not the losing party having agreed to arbitrate will pay the arbitrator award and move forward.if that does not happen the arbitration award is enforceable in court.