JAMS Claim business
About
JAMS, formerly known as Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc.[1] is a United States–based for-profit organization of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, including mediation and arbitration.[2][3] H. Warren Knight, a former California Superior Court judge, founded JAMS in 1979 in Santa Ana, California.[4] A 1994 merger...... See More
JAMS, formerly known as Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services, Inc.[1] is a United States–based for-profit organization of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services, including mediation and arbitration.[2][3] H. Warren Knight, a former California Superior Court judge, founded JAMS in 1979 in Santa Ana, California.[4] A 1994 merger with Endispute of Washington, D.C. made JAMS into the largest private arbitration and mediation service in the country.[5] It is one of the major arbitration administration organizations in the United States.[nb 1] As of 2017, JAMS has 27 resolution centers, including its headquarters in Irvine, California and centers in Toronto and London.[7] JAMS specializes in mediating and arbitrating complex, multi-party, business/commercial cases. As of 2012, JAMS administers a few hundred consumer arbitration cases per year.[8]: 99 JAMS's Consumer Minimum Standards have been the subject of scholarly commentary.[9]: 1407–08 [3]: 305–06 A policy promulgated by JAMS in 2004 that would have allowed for class arbitrations, even if the arbitration agreement did not allow them, and the subsequent retraction of that policy, were also controversial.
Services Offered
- Mediators
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Reviews
A Quick Look at Customer Sentiment
The reviews reveal a predominantly negative experience with the arbitration process, marked by allegations of biased, unprepared arbitrators and costly, inefficient proceedings. Many reviewers expressed deep dissatisfaction with the quality and fairness of the judgments while lamenting the high fees and drawn-out timelines. On the other hand, a few noted that the facilities and support staff create a comfortable environment during the process. Overall, the feedback emphasizes significant areas for improvement in expertise, communication, and the reliability of case resolution.
Deep Dive: Detailed Analysis of Customer Reviews
We’ve gathered and analyzed reviews from real customers across the web to give you an in-depth look at their experiences with JAMS. Here’s what people are saying about their service quality, professionalism, and reliability:
Overall Experience & Satisfaction
Many reviewers expressed strong dissatisfaction with the arbitration process, describing it as unfair and poorly executed. Several accounts mentioned feeling that the entire process was set up to benefit corporations or the wealthier party, and that the outcomes often left the aggrieved party with unresolved grievances and wasted expense.
Service Quality & Expertise
Criticism was frequently directed at the arbitrators' inability to properly consider evidence and apply the law impartially. Specific examples include Judge Lucky, who was accused of dismissing key arguments, and Judge David Brickner, whose lack of understanding of real estate contingencies led to an unfavorable ruling. There were also accounts where arbitrators, such as Commissioner Watness, failed to address fraudulent activities in trust disputes.
Customer Service & Communication
Reviewers noted that communication during the arbitration was often lacking. Several mentioned that arbitrators appeared disinterested and unprepared, ignoring critical evidence or failing to make themselves available for clarifications. In contrast, a few positive comments appreciated the overall support of the professional staff, especially in the more welcoming facility environments.
Value for Money & Pricing Transparency
Many customers criticized the high cost of initiating and pursuing arbitration, with specific fee amounts provided by reviewers. The expenses associated with depositions, transcripts, and additional costs were seen as disproportionate to the outcomes received. Several reviewers argued that the process was financially draining, particularly for individuals with limited means.
Timeliness & Efficiency
Numerous reviews highlighted the inefficiency and prolonged nature of the arbitration process. Complaints included proceedings that dragged on for years, missing transcripts, and delays that eventually forced parties back into the court system. The slow pace of resolution compounded the frustrations with the overall experience.
Professionalism & Trustworthiness
Issues of professionalism were a common theme, with several reviewers accusing arbitrators of bias, incompetence, and even dishonesty. The perception that arbitrators had pre-decided outcomes or favored powerful interests undermined trust in the process and left many parties feeling misled and exploited.
Facility, Environment & Ambience
Some reviews provided a contrasting perspective by praising the physical environment of the facilities. The comfortable conference rooms, plentiful breakout areas, modern business centers, and even scenic views from high-rise offices were noted as positive aspects that helped mitigate the stressful nature of arbitration sessions.
Accessibility & Convenience
There were mixed comments regarding accessibility. While the supportive staff and well-equipped physical locations were appreciated by a few, other reviewers felt that the system lacked efficient channels for raising complaints or obtaining timely responses, adding to the overall frustration with the process.
Problem Resolution & Follow-up
Many reviewers complained that arbitration did little to truly resolve issues. Negative experiences included rulings that ignored key evidence, double standards in decision-making, and awards that were impossible to enforce without returning to the court system. The lack of effective follow-up and opportunities for appeal left many feeling that the resolution was ultimately incomplete.
Unique Strengths & Areas for Improvement
While the arbitration facilities and some aspects of the support services received occasional praise, the overwhelming sentiment was that the core arbitration process is deeply flawed. Reviewers suggested that significant improvements are needed in arbitrator selection, communication, fee transparency, and the overall fairness and enforceability of the decisions rendered. Many urged for a reconsideration of mandatory arbitration clauses and for enhanced consumer protections.
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Get Directions B Street, San Diego, California
Working Hours
- Mon 08AM - 05PM
- Tue 08AM - 05PM
- Wed 08AM - 05PM
- Thu 08AM - 05PM
- Fri 08AM - 05PM
- Sat - Closed
- Sun -
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