The World eSports Association (WESA) has opened up an independent arbitration court to tackle legal issues and disputes unique to the world of eSports.
The court, although founded by WESA, will operate independently, and is open to everyone involved in the eSports industry, from players and teams to organizers and publishers.
WESA was formed earlier this year by leading eSports league, ESL, with the aim of regulating and standardizing the rapidly expanding professional gaming scene.
The fledgling organization promised to work on “player representation, standardized regulations, and revenue shares for teams,” in an attempt to further legitimize the sport.
It’s expected the court will be used to handle a wide range of issues, such as contract disputes, prize money pay out, distribution disagreements, financial misconduct, and player representation.
All issues presented to the court will be decided by an impartial panel of three arbitrators, although those involved in a case can also agree to utilize a sole arbitrator for certain disputes. All decisions made by the court will be final, and under no circumstances will appeals be allowed.
“The creation of an independent arbitration process is an important step to achieve one of WESA’s goals to professionalize eSports,” said Ken Hershman, executive chairman and commissioner of WESA.
“The impartial nature of the arbitration process ensures a variety of issues – from contract disputes to prize money distribution and many others – can be handled expeditiously in a fair, equitable and cost effective manner.”
Anyone interested in taking their dispute to the arbitration court will need to start the process with a written case submission. If necessary, an oral hearing will then take place.
For more information, including how to contact the court, check out the WESA website.