Originally from Dispute Resolution Journal

Dispute resolution by binding arbitration in the context of this study envisions a pre-dispute agreement to arbitrate in a contract between parties. The origins of such contractually mandated arbitration can be traced as far back as 14th century England and, possibly, had its roots in Greek and Roman law. Modern evolution of the process is a fascinating progression from judicial hostility to court acceptance and, eventually, encouragement as a ground swell of litigation provided a framework for the expansion of alternative dispute resolution.