Arbitration & Dispute Resolution

1. Scope

This Arbitration & Dispute Resolution Policy applies to any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to our Terms of Service, the Book Jersey Shore platform (the "Platform"), or any transaction facilitated through the Platform, whether between Users or between a User and BookJerseyShore LLC ("Company"). This Policy is incorporated into the Terms of Service.

2. Pre-Arbitration Dispute Resolution

Before initiating formal proceedings, the parties agree to attempt a brief informal resolution process in good faith:

1. Direct Communication: If the dispute is between Users, the complaining party should first try to contact the other party through the Platform or in writing if practical.
2. Written Notice: Before starting arbitration, the complaining party must send a written notice describing the dispute and the specific relief sought. The receiving party shall have at least thirty (30) days after receipt of the notice to attempt informal resolution.
3. Platform Role: The Company may preserve records or request supporting documentation relevant to Platform activity, but the Company is not required to investigate, mediate, or resolve disputes between Users.

If the required written notice has not been provided, arbitration may be stayed until this section has been satisfied.

3. Binding Individual Arbitration

If the dispute is not resolved through the pre-arbitration process, it shall be resolved exclusively through final and binding arbitration administered under the rules of the American Arbitration Association ("AAA") Consumer Arbitration Rules then in effect. The arbitration shall be conducted on an individual basis only. The arbitrator may not consolidate claims or preside over any form of class, representative, or collective proceeding.

The arbitration shall take place in the State of Wyoming, or at the Company's election, via telephone, video conference, or written submission. The arbitrator shall apply Wyoming law consistent with the Federal Arbitration Act and shall issue a reasoned written decision.

4. Fees and Cost Allocation

Each party shall bear its own filing fees and attorney's fees unless the arbitrator determines that a claim was frivolous or brought in bad faith, in which case the arbitrator may allocate fees and costs, including reasonable attorney's fees, to the non-prevailing party.

5. Disputes Involving the Company

Claims brought against the Company must follow the same pre-arbitration and arbitration process described above. For any claim that is not subject to arbitration (including requests for injunctive or other equitable relief), you consent to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in the State of Wyoming, and you waive any objection to venue or jurisdiction in those courts.

6. Equitable Relief

Nothing in this Policy shall prevent the Company from seeking injunctive or other equitable relief in any court of competent jurisdiction to protect its intellectual property, confidential information, or Platform integrity, without the requirement of posting bond.

7. Class Action and Jury Trial Waiver

YOU AND THE COMPANY EACH WAIVE THE RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION, CLASS ARBITRATION, OR REPRESENTATIVE PROCEEDING. YOU AND THE COMPANY EACH IRREVOCABLY WAIVE THE RIGHT TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THE TERMS OF SERVICE OR THE PLATFORM.

8. Survival

This Arbitration & Dispute Resolution Policy shall survive termination of your account and the Terms of Service.

9. Contact

For dispute questions, email support@bookjerseyshore.com.