How do I resolve a major dispute with my hirer?
The importance of having a written contract is not just to ensure a binding agreement on fees paid to you or the scope of work to be delivered, but just as importantly, the method of resolving any misunderstanding that may arise between you and your hirer
on any of the agreed terms inside the contract.
It is recommended that you and your hirer first use negotiation or mediation with an aim to achieve an amicable resolution to the dispute, should it happen. Amicable resolution aims to preserve relationships. Unnecessary time and large expenses may be incurred in the formal dispute resolution processes when the dispute can be resolved via negotiation and mediation.
If you and your hirer are unable to resolve this over a cup of coffee, then turn to the Dispute Resolution/Recourse clause* in your contract.
Primarily, there are three types of dispute resolution – Mediation, Arbitration and Litigation. Always resolve any dispute through negotiation or mediation first, with litigation as your last resort as it is costly and time-consuming.
Here is a short explanation of what the three dispute resolutions look like:
Mediation
This is a voluntary process which engages the assistance of a neutral third party called a mediator. The mediator will facilitate negotiations between you and your hirer with the sole intention of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. Primarily, he
or she will guide the unhappy communication towards an understanding of both parties’ needs and interests. Mediation focuses on the interests of both parties, and both of you have control over the outcome, unlike in a lawsuit where you will
face a judge deciding on your case. Mediation can also preserve your working relationship with your hirer, especially when the contract is for a long term. For more details on Mediation, click here.
Arbitration
This is a procedure in which the dispute is submitted, by agreement of both you and your hirer, to one or more arbitrators who will make a binding decision on the dispute. The lure of arbitration is that it is a much simpler version of a trial involving
less complicated rules. The role of an arbitrator is similar to that of a judge, although the procedures are less formal e.g. the hearing can take place in a private, neutral venue. An arbitrator is usually an expert in his or her field of practice.
However, do note that the final decision made by the arbitrator(s) is binding and there is limited scope for appeal after the decision is given. For more information on Arbitration, click here.
Litigation
This refers to the enforcing of one’s rights through the courts. Legal proceedings start with your lawyer sending a letter of demand to your hirer requesting a certain action by a given period of time. If your hirer does not respond, then you may
commence court proceedings. The process of litigation is time-consuming and tedious, involving significant paperwork. It should be highlighted that since lawyers typically charge by the hour, a lengthy legal process will result in correspondingly
hefty legal fees for you. For more information on Litigation, click here.
*extracted from the "ADVOCATES FOR THE ARTS - A LEGAL HANDBOOK FOR THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES", developed by the Law Society Pro Bono Services