The CCMA is a unique forum, with its own rules and processes. It is extremely important, when dealing with CCMA matters, that these rules and processes are understood and adhered to. We are well-equipped to assist our clients to act within the frameworks and processes established in the CCMA.
Conciliations:
When a dispute is referred to the CCMA, the first appearance is usually conciliation. During this phase, the parties endeavour to resolve the dispute between them and reach a mutually acceptable settlement. The commissioner and the parties’ representatives, if applicable, assist them to reach such settlement. If the dispute cannot be resolved, the matter is then referred to arbitration.
Arbitrations:
Arbitration is much like a trial in a civil court in that parties prepare their case and evidence, whereafter they present it to the Commissioner dealing with the matter. The commissioner sits as an arbitrator and makes a binding decision once all the evidence has been presented and considered.
Con/arb
A con/arb is a mixture of a conciliation and arbitration. If the parties cannot settle the matter in conciliation, it proceeds to arbitration on the same day unless one of the parties have objected to arbitration proceeding immediately. Such objection is done in writing before the hearing.
Rescission Applications:
A party against whom an order was made in their absence can approach the CCMA to have such order set aside. This is called a rescission application.
To successfully apply for a rescission, the applicant must launch their application timeously and show that they have a defence to the claim instituted against them at the CCMA.
Certification of an arbitration award (Form 7.18)
If an arbitration award was granted and one of the parties fails to comply with such award, the other party can apply to have the award certified. This enables the award to be enforced by the Sheriff of the Court.
Section 142A application
In the event that a party does not comply with a settlement agreement which was reached in conciliation, the aggrieved party can apply, in terms of Section 142A, to make the settlement agreement an arbitration award.
