Disputes are part of doing business. What matters is how clients handle them. In Jordan, parties can choose between several paths to resolution, and picking the right one early can save time, cost, and reputation.
Negotiation and Mediation
The vast majority of commercial disputes are resolved through negotiation, often with lawyers acting behind the scenes. Where direct negotiation stalls, structured mediation, whether through a court-annexed program or an independent mediator, can unlock settlements that would otherwise elude the parties. Mediation is fast, confidential, and preserves commercial relationships.
Litigation Before the Jordanian Courts
The Jordanian court system is organized into Magistrate Courts, Courts of First Instance, Courts of Appeal, and the Court of Cassation as the final appellate court. There are also specialized tribunals for tax, customs, administrative, and Sharia matters. Civil and commercial claims proceed through a written and oral process governed by the Code of Civil Procedure. A first-instance judgment is typically issued within several months to a year, depending on complexity, and appeals can extend the timeline further.
Arbitration
Jordan is an arbitration-friendly jurisdiction. The Arbitration Law (No. 31 of 2001) is modeled on the UNCITRAL Model Law, and Jordan is a party to the New York Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards. Institutional arbitration (for example, under ICC, LCIA, or the JIAC in Amman) is widely used in construction, energy, and cross-border commercial contracts. A well-drafted arbitration clause is often the best insurance an international contract can carry.
Enforcement
Winning a judgment or award is only half the battle. Enforcement in Jordan is handled by the Enforcement Departments attached to the courts, and it can involve asset tracing, garnishment, and auction of property. Foreign judgments and awards are enforceable through specific procedures and treaties; our lawyers regularly handle such files for international clients.
Choosing the Right Forum
The best forum depends on the nature of the dispute, the value at stake, the quality of the contract, and the parties' commercial objectives. Abdullah & Partners advises clients through every stage of dispute resolution. To discuss a matter, visit our contact page, call +962 79 566 6696, or email info@abdullahfirm.com.
