The Scope of the Clause. This section of the clause is critical; it sets the boundaries for which disputes the tribunal is authorised to determine. Choice of Rules. The Number of Arbitrators. Appointing Authority. Choice of Venue. The language of the proceedings. Finality. Exclusion of the right of appeal.
Disadvantages Questionable Fairness. Mandatory arbitration. Finality: No appeals. While this may be a positive if you find the arbitration decision favorable, you should be aware that if arbitration is binding, both sides give up their right to an appeal. Can be more expensive. Unpredictability: Unconventional outcomes.
Much like the opening statement in a trial, your arbitration statement should lay out what the “evidence” – the written material – will show regarding the proper credit on the project. The Arbitration Statement is not established fact, just your assessment of the material.
Arguments should flow easily from the relevant facts and applicable law. Avoid exaggerating the strengths of your case as well as disparaging the opposing side. Remember that professionalism and credibility are critical to persuasiveness.
Because of limited discovery, lack of a jury, and limited appeal rights, arbitration outcomes are riskier and more final than court litigation. It is hard to see why arbitration would be fairer than court litigation. Arbitration is litigation, just not in court.
“Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this contract, or the breach, termination or invalidity thereof, shall be settled by arbitration in ance with the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules as at present in force.”
Even if there were no pre-hearing briefs, keep your open- ing short, providing an executive sum- mary of your case in chronological order without getting into the weeds. Try to sum up some key points in phraseology the arbitrator will remember. If you have compelling evidence, mention it.
Always get straight to the merits without berating the other side or whining about how badly it has treated you. Another threat to your credibility is the “kitchen sink” arbitration demand or a response that includes numerous claims or defenses that have little chance of succeeding.
Often, rules and awards are also available via the arbitral bodies' website. Westlaw's International Arbitration Materials provides access to cases, awards, rules, conventions, legislation, model laws, and more for practicing U.S. lawyers.