Service Area IV

Consumer Dispute Arbitrator

A neutral, experienced decision-maker who resolves consumer disputes efficiently and fairly — outside of court, with the finality of binding arbitration.

Role of the Arbitrator

Neutral Decision-MakingOutside of Court

An arbitrator in consumer matters serves as a neutral decision-maker who resolves disputes between consumers and businesses outside of court — typically through binding arbitration. Unlike a mediator, the arbitrator hears evidence and arguments from both sides and renders a decision that is legally binding and enforceable.

Mr. McCathren's deep expertise in consumer automotive law, finance, insurance, and regulatory compliance makes him uniquely qualified to arbitrate the complex factual and legal issues that arise in consumer disputes. His decisions are grounded in decades of direct industry knowledge — not just legal theory.

Advantages of Arbitration

  • Faster resolution than court litigation
  • Significantly lower cost than trial
  • Private and confidential proceedings
  • Flexible scheduling and procedures
  • Decision-maker with direct industry expertise
  • Binding award enforceable in court
  • Limited grounds for appeal — finality
  • Informal but structured process

Disputes Handled

Consumer Dispute Categories

Auto Purchase, Leasing & Financing

  • Dealer misrepresentation in vehicle sales
  • Lease agreement disputes and excess charges
  • Finance company billing and collection practices
  • Vehicle defect and lemon law claims
  • Repossession disputes and wrongful repossession

Credit Card & Lending Issues

  • Billing disputes and unauthorized charges
  • Interest rate and fee disputes
  • Credit reporting and FCRA violations
  • Debt collection practices (FDCPA)
  • Loan modification and forbearance disputes

Warranty & Service Contracts

  • Extended warranty claim denials
  • Service contract coverage disputes
  • Manufacturer warranty interpretation
  • Implied warranty of merchantability claims
  • Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act claims

Insurance-Related Claims

  • Auto insurance claim disputes
  • GAP insurance coverage denials
  • Total loss valuation disputes
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
  • Bad faith insurance practices

Consumer Protection Claims

  • Unfair and deceptive trade practices
  • State consumer protection statute violations
  • Truth in Lending Act (TILA) violations
  • Consumer Leasing Act violations
  • Regulation Z and Regulation M compliance

Retail & Service Disputes

  • Repair shop billing and quality disputes
  • Parts and labor warranty claims
  • Dealer service department disputes
  • Retail purchase return and refund disputes
  • Subscription and service contract cancellations

The Arbitration Process

How Arbitration Works

01

Initiation

Either party submits a demand for arbitration. Mr. McCathren is appointed as arbitrator by agreement or through an arbitration organization.

02

Pre-Hearing

Parties exchange relevant documents and information. Scheduling and procedural rules are established. Preliminary motions may be heard.

03

Hearing

Both parties present evidence, documents, and witness testimony. Mr. McCathren asks clarifying questions and ensures a fair process.

04

Award

Mr. McCathren issues a written decision — typically within 30 days of the hearing. The award is binding and enforceable in court.

Appoint a Qualified Arbitrator

Contact Mr. McCathren to discuss your consumer dispute and whether arbitration is the appropriate resolution mechanism.