← All Guides
What to Collect Before Filing
The complete checklist — your identity, the company's details, the contract, account info, evidence, and damages proof.
Not legal advice — educational content only. For high-stakes or complex cases, consult an attorney.
Information to Collect Before Filing
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Identity | Your full legal name, address, phone, email |
| Counterparty | Company legal name, DBA, address for service, registered agent |
| Contract | Signed agreement, terms of service version + date accessed, arbitration clause text |
| Arbitration clause details | Named arbitrator (AAA, JAMS, NAM, etc.), governing law, venue, fee-shifting terms, class waiver |
| Account info | Account number, order number, customer ID, transaction IDs |
| Transaction record | Dates, amounts, payment method, proof of payment |
| The harm | What went wrong, when, dollar amount of loss, non-monetary harm |
| Communications | All emails, chat logs, call notes, letters, support tickets |
| Prior resolution attempts | Complaints filed, refund requests, CFPB/BBB/AG filings |
| Witnesses | Names, contact info, what they observed |
| Physical evidence | Photos, video, defective item, packaging, labels |
| Damages proof | Repair bills, replacement costs, medical bills, lost wages, bank statements |
Thinking about going to arbitration?
Open a case to track your dispute, organize evidence, and generate demand letters — step by step.
Open a CaseNeed to Request an NDA Release?
If you settled an arbitration and signed an NDA, you may be able to request a partial release so you can share your experience.
Learn About NDA Releases