Patricia Atalese v. U.S. Legal Services Group, L.P. (072314)

Arbitration provisions are now commonplace in consumer contracts. Consumers can choose to pursue arbitration and waive their right to sue in court, but should know that they are making that choice. An arbitration clause, like any contractual clause providing for the waiver of a constitutional or statutory right, must state its purpose clearly and unambiguously. In choosing arbitration, consumers must have a basic understanding that they are giving up their right to seek relief in a judicial forum.

Here, plaintiff, Patricia Atalese, contracted with defendant, U.S. Legal Services Group, L.P.…