Nicol Sanchez Alvarez

Under the Civil Code, a valid contract generally requires consent of the parties, a definite object, and a lawful cause. While many agreements can be verbal, a written contract makes its terms easier to prove.

Yes, especially for significant commitments. An attorney can flag unfavorable terms, clarify obligations and deadlines, and add protections such as termination and dispute-resolution clauses.

Arbitration is a private dispute-resolution process in which neutral arbitrators hear the parties and issue a binding award. It is often used when contracts include an arbitration clause and can be faster and more confidential than court.

Yes. Awards are generally enforceable and can be confirmed by a court, after which they carry the force of a judgment. Courts set aside awards only in limited circumstances, such as fraud or serious procedural defects.

Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral mediator helps the parties reach their own agreement. Unlike arbitration, the mediator does not impose a decision; the parties stay in control of the outcome.

Mediation is ideal when parties want to preserve a relationship, save time and money, or keep matters private. It is common in family, contract, and community disputes, and courts sometimes refer cases to it.