Domain Name Arbitration

Domain name arbitration is an efficient and cost effective method to resolve disputes over Internet addresses. Owning a domain name is extremely vital for establishing a strong web presence. Because of the increased rate of domain registration, disputes arising from abusive registration of domain names have become common.

Internet domain name disputes can occur in many ways. An individual may knowingly go after a domain name almost the same as another person's organization's trade mark, name, or brand. Sometimes individuals may unknowingly choose a domain name that already exists.

Domain name disputes are mostly settled either by agreement, court action or arbitration. Until recently, the court had acted as ultimate adjudicators to decide on issues involving domain names. In order to settle domain name disputes in a relatively fast, reliable, and inexpensive way, the ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) accepted and approved the use of arbitration method. As the litigation method is time consuming and expensive, many people opt for the arbitration method to resolve dispute over domain name ownership.

ICANN adopted the Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy, otherwise termed UDRP, with the intention of making the domain name dispute resolution procedures more efficient. In most cases, the arbitration proceedings are carried out by an approved dispute-resolution service provider. Nowadays, arbitration panels are proving to be beneficial to resolve the incidences of domain name theft and domain name piracy.

By availing yourself of domain name arbitration services, you can reap many advantages over litigation. Some of the advantages that can be obtained include low cost, flexibility, no limitations on jurisdiction and evidence, and more. Moreover, it takes only a few weeks to complete the arbitration proceedings. Eventhough there are many benefits, it has some drawbacks such as lack of appeal, panel decisions are discretionary, limitation of remedies, etc.

On searching the Internet, you will come across a number of companies providing domain name arbitration services. They work with you to provide favorable solutions for negotiating purchases and sales, overseeing transfers, domain escrow and to prepare agreements, along with domain name arbitration proceedings.