Frequently Asked Questions

CORD — Centre for Online Resolution of Disputes — is a neutral, independent Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) institution incorporated under Indian law and operated by Nomology Technology Private Limited. We administer arbitration, mediation, and conciliation proceedings entirely online, and are empanelled by SEBI under the SmartODR framework for securities market disputes at NSE and NCDEX. CORD combines rigorous legal processes, certified neutrals, and purpose-built technology to deliver fair, time-bound, and enforceable outcomes.

ODR — Online Dispute Resolution — is the use of digital technology to resolve disputes without physical hearings or court appearances. Proceedings are conducted through secure video conferencing, digital document exchange, and electronic communication. ODR encompasses arbitration, mediation, conciliation, and negotiation — all conducted online. It is accessible from anywhere in India or internationally, removing barriers of geography, cost, and time that make traditional litigation inaccessible to many.

Arbitration is a binding process where an independent arbitrator hears both sides and issues a final, enforceable award — similar to a court judgment. Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral mediator facilitates dialogue to help parties reach a mutually acceptable settlement. Conciliation is similar to mediation but the conciliator may actively propose settlement terms. Negotiation is the most direct process — parties exchange proposals and reach agreement entirely on their own terms, supported by a CORD case manager and platform but without any third-party decision-maker. CORD administers all four processes; the right choice depends on the nature of your dispute, your relationship with the other party, and what your contract provides for.

Online arbitration is arbitration conducted entirely through digital means — filing, pleadings, hearings, evidence, and award delivery all take place through a secure online platform. It carries the same legal force as traditional arbitration conducted in person. Under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, an arbitral award passed through CORD is binding on the parties and enforceable as a decree of court.

Online mediation is a voluntary, structured negotiation process facilitated by a trained, neutral mediator — conducted through video conferencing and digital communication. The mediator does not decide the outcome; instead, they help the parties identify common ground and reach a settlement they both agree to. A settlement agreement reached through CORD mediation is binding on the parties as a contract and can be made into an order of court under applicable law.

Online negotiation at CORD is a structured, party-driven process where disputing parties — individuals, businesses, or a combination — exchange proposals and work toward a mutually agreed resolution, entirely online. Unlike arbitration or mediation, there is no arbitrator or mediator making or imposing a decision; the parties retain full control of the outcome. What makes CORD negotiation distinctive is the combination of a dedicated case manager and a secure digital platform. The case manager facilitates the process — scheduling sessions, coordinating the exchange of proposals and documents, and keeping both sides engaged — while the platform provides a structured, confidential environment for all communications. A settlement reached through CORD negotiation is recorded in a written agreement that is legally enforceable as a contract between the parties.

Unassisted negotiation often stalls — not because parties lack willingness, but because they lack structure. When negotiation is facilitated by an independent, reputable institution like CORD, both parties enter the process with greater confidence. The neutral platform, clear rules, and case manager oversight reduce posturing, keep communications productive, and significantly increase the likelihood of reaching a settlement. CORD negotiation works for individuals negotiating with individuals, businesses negotiating with businesses, and businesses negotiating with individuals — providing institutional balance regardless of the power dynamic between parties.

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, mediation, and negotiation.

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 fully valid under Indian law. Arbitration and conciliation conducted online are governed by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. An arbitral award passed through CORD has the same legal force as a court decree and is enforceable through execution proceedings if the other party does not comply. Mediation settlements can be recorded as consent orders of court. SEBI has additionally recognised ODR for securities market disputes through the SmartODR framework.

Yes. Every arbitral award passed by CORD is final and binding on the parties under Section 35 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996. If the losing party fails to honour the award, the winning party can file an execution petition before the appropriate court to enforce it as a court decree. CORD has a 100% track record — no CORD award has ever been set aside by a court.

SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) launched the SmartODR portal to enable investors to resolve disputes with SEBI-registered entities — including listed companies, brokers, depository participants, and mutual funds — online. CORD is an empanelled ODR institution under SmartODR and administers conciliation and arbitration proceedings for disputes at NSE and NCDEX. Investors can initiate proceedings at smartodr.in.

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.