> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.gnodi.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.gnodi.io/documentation/the-constitution/article-xv-dispute-resolution.md).

# Article XV: Dispute Resolution

**Section 15.1 Informal Resolution**

Participants are encouraged to resolve disputes in good faith before invoking formal dispute resolution.

**Section 15.2 Mediation**

If informal resolution fails, the parties may submit the dispute to mediation under a process approved by governance. A mediator must be impartial and must disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest.

**Section 15.3 Arbitration or Governance Review**

If mediation fails, disputes may be submitted to arbitration, governance review, or another approved dispute resolution process. The process must provide reasonable procedural fairness, impartiality, and a written record of outcome. Where binding arbitration is elected, such arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”). The seat of arbitration shall be determined by the governing jurisdiction of the Gnodi Blockchain as established in the applicable operating agreement or as designated by the Council of Guardians by approved governance action. The language of the proceedings shall be English. Proceedings may be conducted virtually unless otherwise agreed by the parties. The arbitrator’s decision shall be final and binding and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either party from seeking emergency injunctive or equitable relief from a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent irreparable harm pending the outcome of arbitration.

**Section 15.4 Council Limitation**

The Council of Guardians may administer or coordinate dispute resolution but should not serve as the sole final adjudicator of disputes in which the Council, any Council member, a Service Provider supervised by the Council, or a Treasury recipient has a material interest.

**Section 15.5 Binding Effect**

The binding effect of any dispute resolution decision shall be determined by the dispute resolution policy, applicable agreements, applicable law, and any governance-approved process.