Kleros (PNK) is an open-source protocol for decentralized dispute resolution that went live in July 2018. The project leverages blockchain technology and crowdsourcing to ensure fair adjudication of conflicts.
It serves as an intermediary for decentralized applications (DApps) and their users. When no conflict arises, Kleros functions as a trustless third-party payment service. However, if a dispute emerges, the involved parties can request arbitration from jurors chosen from among PNK token holders. PNK is an ERC-20 utility token on Ethereum with a fixed supply.
Jurors render a verdict favoring one side. Arbitration fees are paid out in ETH to all arbitrators, while those who vote with the minority forfeit a portion of their PNK tokens to the majority voters. This ruling may be appealed for a fee. Kleros states that its goal is to enhance individual freedom and provide simpler access to justice.
The service fee, payable in ETH, is covered by the disputing parties or taken from funds already held in escrow.