Frequently Asked Questions

CORD (Centre for Online Resolution of Disputes) is a neutral and independent institution that helps individuals and businesses resolve disputes entirely online. We provide a secure platform, dedicated case managers, and certified neutrals to deliver fair, time-bound outcomes through legally recognized processes like arbitration and mediation.

ODR stands for Online Dispute Resolution, which means resolving legal disputes digitally through video conferencing, secure document exchange, and electronic communication. No travel, no courtrooms, and no delays. It is accessible from anywhere in the world, at any time.

Yes. ODR is valid under Indian law. Arbitration and conciliation conducted online are governed by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. An arbitral award from CORD carries the same legal force as a court decree and is enforceable if the other party does not comply.

Yes. CORD is open to everyone, including individual consumers, employees, residents, and businesses of all sizes.

No. The process happens online through virtual hearings and digital submissions. You can participate from your office, home, or anywhere in the world.

Mediation and conciliation can conclude in days to weeks. Arbitration is also significantly quicker than conventional legal proceedings, helping businesses move forward faster.

CORD's panel includes trained, certified mediators, arbitrators, and conciliators with diverse domain expertise. Neutrals are empanelled to handle disputes with impartiality, skill, and efficiency.

Compared with traditional litigation, ODR is typically faster, more affordable, more confidential, and less disruptive to business operations and relationships.

Add a CORD dispute resolution clause to your contracts, vendor agreements, employment letters, or terms of service. This creates a reliable, pre-agreed pathway to resolve disputes through CORD.

Fees depend on the nature and value of the dispute and are generally a fraction of litigation costs. CORD provides a transparent fee schedule tailored to your requirements.

No. CORD's fee structure is transparent and disclosed upfront before the process begins.

Yes. For existing contracts, parties can sign a separate submission agreement agreeing to use CORD for future disputes.

Yes. Legal representation is not mandatory, but parties are fully entitled to have counsel throughout the process.

If your contract includes a CORD clause, refusal may amount to breach of contract and can entitle you to pursue further legal remedies.

No. CORD processes are confidential. Dispute details, proceedings, and outcomes remain private.

Yes. A CORD arbitral award is legally binding and enforceable under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.

Yes. Parties can approach courts for interim measures under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, while arbitration proceedings are underway.

You can negotiate and propose CORD by highlighting key benefits: speed, confidentiality, and lower cost compared to litigation.

Yes. CORD handles disputes across a broad spectrum, from small claims to high-value commercial matters, with process and neutral selection calibrated to dispute complexity and value.