Functions and attributions of CIAB
Our services
What is an alternative dispute resolution?
It is a faster, simpler, friendly and economical way of resolving conflicts.
Arbitration Centers are independent, impartial and specialized entities, that seek to help the consumers and companies in the resolution of consumers disputes. To this end, the Centers resort to mediation, conciliation and arbitration.
In what situations can I use the services of the Consumer Arbitration Court (CIAB)?
Consumers conflicts arising from the acquisition of goods and services up to 30.000 euros.
*CIAB´s intervention always depends on the verification of the competence rules contained in the Law and regulations.
What should I do to initiate an alternative dispute resolution process?
You must ensure that you have tried to resolve your complaint directly with the company.
If the conflict persists, you must gather all documentation and submit a complaint using our form or directly at our facilities.
1
A legal expert (jurist) reviews the complaint and the documentation submitted. Competence is verified, and the process begins with the notification to the company complained of.
2
In the mediation phase, the mediator/legal expert (jurist) will try to resolve the conflict in an amicable way between the consumer and the supplier. If an agreement is reached, the process ends. Otherwise, it will proceed to the conciliation phase. The mediation may be indirect or through a face-to-face meeting.
3
In the conciliation phase, the Arbitrator Judge will attempt to resolve the conflict trough conciliation of the parties. If this is not possible, the process proceeds to the arbitration phase.
4
The arbitration phase consists of a trial, where testimonial and documentary evidence are admitted. The parties may request expert opinions to be carried out by specialized Technicians. The arbitration verdict is equivalent to a first instance decision.
