Mediation, Arbitration, and Appeals: Frequently Asked Questions

January 21, 2026

Arthur N. Chagaris, Member at Beattie Padovano, LLC

Have you been ripped off by a business partner, competitor, or customer?

Or faced a frivolous lawsuit?

Maybe there is a situation where someone close to you has died and those left behind cannot agree as to how to distribute the estate.

What can an attorney do to help me navigate this process?

The talented attorneys on the litigation team at Beattie Padovano, LLC bring extensive trial experience and expertise to the table and are ready to tackle the hurdles with you. We specialize in tailoring our approach to meet your unique circumstances, ensuring that each case is handled with care. Our goal is to align your situation with the most effective legal strategies to achieve the best outcomes possible. We’re dedicated to fiercely protecting your rights, believing that a proactive approach often paves the way for success. Also, with our deep understanding of the litigation process, we’re here to shrewdly guide you toward a positive resolution. We also embrace the mediation and arbitration process with confidence.

Can you provide more information on mediation and arbitration?

Both mediation and arbitration afford the parties better control over the timing and scheduling process which is not followed by the court system. Our team at Beattie Padovano has worked with many practicing mediators and arbitrators, most of whom are retired judges; they can help steer the dispute to a just conclusion. However, it is essential to understand that acting promptly is key. Many times, there are statutes of limitations, creating a time-sensitive situation. By consulting with Beattie Padovano during this journey, you’ll be well-equipped to meet any deadlines and safeguard your case effectively.

When is mediation the best option?

Mediation is most effective when both parties see the value in reaching a resolution without the aggravation and costs associated with the courtroom experience.

In what situations is arbitration the preferred path?

Arbitration thrives when parties are flexible, are both seeking quick resolution, and share a desire for confidentiality as they pursue a satisfactory conclusion with a Judge of their choosing.

What do I need to know about appeals?

In relation to the appeal process, Beattie Padovano has managed numerous such proceedings, which can often be lengthy and complex. The appeals process is frequently utilized to ensure that the initial proceedings, whether conducted in a court trial or through arbitration, remain within the permissible limits of the law. Ultimately the appeal process assures that the court has properly applied the law to the case before it.

What are the benefits of working with Beattie Padovano specifically?

Regarding the composition of the litigation team, many of the attorneys have served as clerks for judges prior to their tenure at Beattie Padovano. Our team is led by a litigator who is certified as a civil trial attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, a certification which is held by only 3% of the lawyers in the State of New Jersey. Nearly all members of the department have engaged in the Inns of Court program, a mentoring initiative conducted in the courthouse under the supervision of sitting judges. Such exposure to sitting judges within the legal system is invaluable in aiding the team in achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.


As Chair of the Firm’s Commercial Litigation & Appeals group, Arthur N. Chagaris is involved in all areas of litigation. Since 1991, he has been Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Civil Trial Attorney continuously.

Throughout the course of his distinguished career, Arthur has conducted dozens of jury trials from jury selection to verdict, including, among others, commercial disputes, intellectual property cases, contractual disputes, wrongful death cases, medical malpractice cases, personal injury matters, construction contract, and landlord-tenant disputes. He has also conducted many non-jury trials in both the State and Federal Courts of New Jersey and in other jurisdictions, involving oppressed shareholder suits, contract litigation, probate matters, Lanham Act violations, trademark infringement, trademark counterfeiting and foreclosure proceedings. In addition, from 2005 to 2015, he served as the Planning Board Attorney for the Borough of Closter, New Jersey.

To learn more about Arthur N. Chagaris, Member at Beattie Padovano, LLC, visit Arthur N. Chagaris – Beattie Padovano, LLC.


No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the New Jersey Supreme Court. This publication is for informational purposes. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. The content is current as of date and time of its publication. It may not reflect developments or changes in the law that have occurred since its publication. Beattie Padovano, LLC, and the attorneys that authored this content disclaim any and all liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this publication. For further information, please contact the attorneys who authored this publication.