In Re Dillard Dept Stores

In this original mandamus proceeding, the relators Dillard Department Stores, Inc. and Grizelda Reeder (collectively "Dillard") challenge the trial courts denial of their motion to compel arbitration under an arbitration agreement between Dillard and an employee, Andrea Martinez. The court of appeals denied Dillards petition for writ of mandamus. We hold that the arbitration agreement is valid and enforceable and that Martinezs claims fall within the terms of the agreement. Because the trial court clearly abused its discretion in denying the motion to compel arbitration we conditionally grant Dillards petition for writ of mandamus.