Employee arbitration agreements are increasingly common in the workplace, and the 10th justice recently weighed in on the matter. In Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis, the Supreme Court ruled that employers can use arbitration agreements to prevent employees from banding together in class action lawsuits.

But what exactly are employee arbitration agreements and how do they work? Here are 10 things you need to know:

1. An employee arbitration agreement is a contract between an employer and employee that requires any disputes to be resolved through arbitration rather than in court.

2. In arbitration, a neutral third party (the arbitrator) hears both sides of the dispute and makes a decision. The decision is binding and cannot be appealed.

3. The use of employee arbitration agreements has increased over the years as a way for employers to avoid costly and time-consuming litigation.

4. Critics of employee arbitration agreements argue that they favor employers because they often contain provisions that limit the employee’s rights and prevent them from pursuing their legal claims in court.

5. Supporters of employee arbitration agreements argue that they are a fair alternative to court, as arbitrators must be neutral and impartial.

6. The Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis decision has been controversial because it allows employers to use arbitration agreements to prevent employees from banding together in class action lawsuits.

7. This means that employees who have signed arbitration agreements must pursue their legal claims individually, which can be costly and difficult.

8. The decision has been criticized by employee rights advocates who argue that it makes it more difficult for employees to hold employers accountable for workplace violations.

9. However, it has been praised by business groups who argue that it will reduce the number of class action lawsuits, which can be expensive and damaging to businesses.

10. It is important for both employees and employers to understand the implications of employee arbitration agreements and to carefully consider the terms of any agreement before signing. It is also important to stay informed about any legal developments in this area.

In conclusion, while employee arbitration agreements can provide a fair and efficient way to resolve disputes in the workplace, the recent Supreme Court decision has raised important questions about their use and implications. It is important for both employees and employers to carefully consider the terms of these agreements and to stay informed about any legal developments in this area.