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California International Arbitration Week

JAMS-SPONSORED EVENT

California International Arbitration Week

Presented by the California Lawyers Association Litigation Section and California Arbitration (CalArb)

Start Date

End Date

Location

Westwood LA Hotel
930 Hilgard Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90024

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JAMS is proud to be a Double Platinum sponsor of the 4th Annual California International Arbitration Week (CIAW) taking place March 10-13 at the W Hotel in Los Angeles. 

CIAW is presented by the California Lawyers Association Litigation Section with California Arbitration (CalArb), and includes leading arbitral institutions and organizations from around the world. 
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FEATURED PANELS

Monday, March 10, 2025
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
Reaching Across the Wall: Navigating US-Mexico Disputes in a Changing Legal Landscape
Presented by Centro de Arbitraje de Mexico and JAMS
In 2023, Mexico became the United States' largest trading partner, with bilateral trade surpassing $780 billion annually. This significant economic relationship increases the likelihood of disputes between businesses in both countries, making arbitration a vital tool for resolving cross-border conflicts. This panel will explore the key industry, trade, and jurisdictional challenges facing arbitration advocates and counsel from both sides of the border. Panelists will also discuss the implications of constitutional changes and judicial reforms in Mexico, and how these shifts may push parties to ADR with US institutions to reach resolution. In-house counsel and legal experts from both countries will offer insights into best practices for navigating cross-border arbitration under these new conditions. 

Topics to be covered may include: 
  • Exploration of common industries where disputes arise, including manufacturing, technology, energy, construction, and technology
  • Addressing the impact of shifting trade policies, tariffs, and cross-border supply chain disruptions on dispute resolution between US and Mexican entities, including case studies.
  • Challenges for US parties in Mexican disputes:
    • Navigating Mexican legal frameworks: The complexities US companies face when involved in disputes within the Mexican legal system, including unique procedural requirements, administrative barriers, and language barriers.
    • Political and regulatory shifts: The role of Mexico’s political and regulatory environment in arbitration, particularly for sectors like energy and infrastructure, where government intervention may impact dispute outcomes.
  • The Impact of Mexico's recent legal and judicial reforms:
    • Judicial reforms: Discussion on the 2024 constitutional reforms in Mexico, including the election of judges and the potential implications for dispute resolution processes.
    • Arbitration vs. Litigation: How the reforms are expected to increase reliance on ADR, particularly arbitration, for resolving cross-border disputes.
    • Enforcement concerns: Insights into how these changes may affect the enforceability of arbitral awards in Mexico and strategies for US counsel in navigating the evolving legal landscape.
  • The role of the USMCA in shaping cross-border disputes:
    • Key provisions: How the USMCA’s dispute resolution mechanisms influence the handling of cross-border disputes, particularly in the fields of labor, environmental issues, and trade.
    • Impact on arbitration: Understanding how USMCA’s dispute settlement provisions intersect with arbitration clauses in cross-border agreements and what advocates should know when structuring contracts in light of the agreement.
  • The role of ADR institutions in helping to resolve disputes
Moderator: 
  • Frida Paola Altamirano Jiménez, Secretary General, Centro de Arbitraje de Mexico (CAM) – Mexico City
Speakers: 
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Intellectual Property Protection in the Age of AI and Big Data: Insights from China and the US
Presented by Beijing Arbitration Commission / Beijing International Arbitration Courts (BAC/BIAC)
In an era of rapid technological advancement and evolving global dynamics, the landscape of intellectual property protection and dispute resolution is undergoing significant transformation. The event will launch the Annual Review on Intellectual Property Dispute Resolution in China (2025), offering an in-depth look at the latest developments and trends in IP dispute resolution in China. Following the report launch, leading experts from China and the U.S. will engage in a comprehensive discussion on critical IP issues, including licensing disputes, data grabbing, copyright challenges related to AI-generated content, etc. This event aims to offer valuable insights into how these contemporary developments are reshaping IP dispute resolution practices, equipping participants with the knowledge and strategies needed to address the complexities of intellectual property.
Welcome Address and Institutional Report. 
Speaker: Jiang Lili, Secretary General of BAC/BIAC 
Moderator: Chen Fuyong, Deputy Secretary General of BAC/BIAC 

Moderator: 
  • Thomas J. Stipanowich, Esq., William H. Webster Chair in Dispute Resolution and Professor of Law at Pepperdine University, and JAMS Arbitrator & Mediator
Speaker:
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
Insights on Global IP Cases: A Comparative Analysis of AI-Driven Jurisprudence from the US, Singapore, and Beyond
Presented by Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC)
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into creative and inventive processes is transforming intellectual property (IP) law across the globe. This panel will examine recent AI-related IP cases from the United States, Singapore, and beyond, offering a comparative analysis of how different jurisdictions are responding to the unique challenges posed by AI-generated works. Key cases to be discussed include the Zarya of the Dawn case in the US, which questioned copyright protections for AI-created artwork, and the Li v. Liu ruling from the Beijing Internet Court, where ownership of AI-generated content was contested. The panel will also dive into the globally significant DABUS case, where courts in the US, UK, and Australia ruled on whether an AI system can be recognized as an inventor. By comparing these landmark cases, the panel will explore key issues such as inventorship, copyright eligibility for AI-generated works, and the evolving standards for IP ownership in the age of AI. The discussion will also focus on how international arbitration bodies like SIAC can play a role in resolving cross-border AI-related IP disputes. Whether you are dealing with AI and IP law or looking for insights into the future of global IP frameworks, this session will offer valuable perspectives from leading jurisdictions.

Moderator:
  • Adriana Uson, Director & Head, Americas, SIAC
Speakers:
  • Prof. Hiro N. Aragaki, Esq., Ph.D, C.Arb, Arbitrator, Mediator & Neutral Evaluator, JAMS and Professor of Law & Director of CNDR, UC Law San Francisco 
  • Dr Stanley Lai SC, Chairman of the Board, Intellectual Property Office of Singapore; Partner, Allen & Gledhill LLP 
  • Chuan Wee Meng, CEO, Singapore International Mediation Centre 
  • Yeong Zee Kin, CEO, Singapore Academy of Law 
  • Professor Daryl Lim, H. Laddie Montague Jr. Chair in Law; Associate Dean for Research and Innovation; Founding Director, Intellectual Property Law and Innovation Initiative; Co-hire, Institute for Computational and Data Sciences and Affiliate, Center for Socially Responsible Artificial Intelligence, Penn State University 
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
International Award Drafting: New Thinking and Best Practices
Presented by College of Commercial Arbitrators
The final award is the culmination of the arbitration process.  Its preparation can be time-consuming and costly.  At the same time, it may leave one or more of the parties deeply dissatisfied, not only with the result, but with what is said and not said.  Are there ways to improve the award drafting process to make the result more satisfying for all those with a stake in the arbitration – parties, counsel, arbitrators, and institutions?  How can counsel best assist the Tribunal in drafting the award, shape the content of the award, and maximize their client’s prospects for a successful outcome?  This panel will interrogate current practices regarding international arbitration awards to see what can be jettisoned and what new approaches taken.

Moderator:
  • Klaus Reichert
Speakers:
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Bridging Legal Traditions: Advocacy and Strategy in Multijurisdictional Arbitrations 
Presented by JAMS
This panel will explore the complexities and strategic considerations arbitration advocates and counsel face when engaged in disputes involving parties and attorneys from different legal systems—common law, civil law, and mixed legal traditions. Panelists will discuss key issues such as differences in procedural expectations, evidence gathering, and advocacy styles, along with how these differences influence case strategy, tribunal persuasion, and award enforcement. The discussion will also address the role of cultural traditions and societal norms in shaping arbitration proceedings, offering attendees practical insights on how to successfully navigate the multifaceted challenges posed by global arbitration disputes.
Topics to be covered include:
  • Diverging Legal Traditions in Arbitration: Exploring the key differences between common law and civil law procedures in arbitration, including discovery processes, witness testimony, and burden of proof. Addressing challenges when parties from mixed legal traditions (e.g., South Africa) are involved and how arbitrators balance conflicting legal norms.
  • Advocacy Styles and Expectations Across Jurisdictions: How advocacy approaches differ across legal traditions, including the varying expectations for oral vs. written submissions, evidentiary standards, and cross-examination techniques. Managing counsel from different jurisdictions and how to adapt your advocacy to be effective before international tribunals.
  • The Role of Cultural and Social Norms in Arbitration: How societal values and cultural expectations influence negotiation, mediation, and arbitration processes. Understanding cultural nuances in communication and decision-making to build rapport and trust with parties, witnesses, and arbitrators. 
  • Procedural and Substantive Law Conflicts: Addressing how to handle conflicts in substantive and procedural laws when multiple jurisdictions are involved, and how arbitrators resolve these issues. The impact of international legal instruments (e.g., New York Convention) in overcoming legal conflicts in multijurisdictional disputes.
  • Enforcement and Recognition of Awards Across Borders: Examining specific challenges in enforcing arbitral awards in civil vs. common law jurisdictions and strategies for ensuring compliance.
Moderator:
Speakers:
  • Carolina Nunez, Head of Legal & Compliance at BayWa r.e. Americas – Los Angeles
  • Sofia Gomez Ruano, Partner, Creel – Mexico City
  • Dan Perera, Partner, HFW – Singapore
  • Dr. Ileana Smeureanu, Counsel, Jones Day – Paris
  • Kabir Duggal, Ph.D., Senior International Arbitration Advisor, Arnold & Porter – New York
1:40 PM - 2:40 PM
Who, What, Where, When and Why to Disclose Artificial Intelligence
Presented by Silicon Valley Arbitration and Mediation Center (SVAMC)
Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) has been widely adopted by parties, counsel, institutions and arbitrators in international arbitration and mediation. Some call for all uses of A.I. to be disclosed to opposing counsel and the Tribunal – others argue for no disclosure. This panel digs deep into how practitioners are using A.I. and considers what uses are benign, what uses are improper; and what uses should be disclosed. We examine the 2024 SVAMC A.I. Guidelines on the Use of A.I. in Arbitration and guidelines issued by various administering institutions as well as the courts to consider when, how and why disclosures on A.I. should be made. Or shouldn’t be made.

Moderator:
Speakers:
  • Svetlana Gitman, Division Vice President of Business Development and Outreach at the American Arbitration Association – International Centre for Dispute Resolution® (AAA- ICDR®)
  • Benjamin Malek, Partner at T.H.E. Chambers, Member of the Board of Directors of SVAMC, and Chair of the SVAMC AI Task Force
  • Sarah Reynolds
  • Anibal Sabater, Partner, Chaffetz Lindsay
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
High Stakes, High Tensions: Resolving Construction and Energy Disputes Across Asia and Latin America – From Blueprint to Award
Presented by JAMS
In a rapidly evolving global economy, cross-border construction and energy projects in Asia and Latin America face unique challenges and complexities. This panel delves into the multifaceted issues of disruption, delay, and legal dilemmas that arise in these large-scale projects. Experts will explore the legal frameworks, dispute resolution mechanisms, and strategic approaches essential for navigating and resolving conflicts in these dynamic regions. The discussion will address the implications of geopolitical initiatives such as the US-driven Build Back Better World (B3W) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the growing impact of political instability, and the ongoing effects of supply chain disruptions on the legal landscape in both regions.

Moderator:
Speakers:
  • Tim Chitester, Partner, HKA – Philadelphia 
  • James Dierking, Assistant General Counsel, Fluor Corp – Aliso Viejo
  • Katie Gonzalez, Associate, Cleary Gottlieb – NewYork
  • Alvin Lindsay, Partner, Head of Construction Practice, Hogan Lovells – Miami
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Life in the Fast Lane: Making Expedited Arbitration Work for You
Presented by International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
Expedited arbitration has gained traction as a preferred method for those seeking a swift, cost-effective, and flexible resolution to disputes. Initially applied to low-value cases, it is increasingly used in more high-value disputes by parties who value the benefits of a speedy resolution to their disputes.
Panelists will discuss how parties and arbitrators are designing procedural frameworks under the ICC Expedited Procedure Provisions (EPP) and share best practices. This panel will also explore the evolution of expedited procedures, why parties are—and are not—opting for expedited procedures, and where expedited procedures may see increased use in the future.
Finally, this event will likewise provide an overview of the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR’s recent work examining practices under hundreds of EPP cases and the lessons that can be drawn from them to assist parties, counsel and arbitrators.

Moderators:
Speakers: 
  • Peter Durning, Senior Counsel, Boeing and Vice-Chair, ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR
  • Marek Krasula, Director, Arbitration and ADR, North America, ICC Dispute Resolution Services
  • Tim Chitester, Partner, HKA
Thursday, March 13, 2025
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
A Golden Gateway? How Courts in California Measure up Against those of Leading International Arbitration Seats when Enforcing International Arbitration Agreements
Presented by Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (“CIArb”), North America Branch (“NAB”)
Its name notwithstanding, the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards is no less a treaty for the recognition and enforcement of arbitration agreements. As the basis for tribunal jurisdiction in international commercial arbitration (“ICA”), the arbitration agreement and its enforcement by national courts forms the “gateway” through which parties enter the realm of international arbitration. The courts of incumbent “leading” international arbitration seats worldwide are generally considered to be “arbitration friendly” and willing to uphold arbitral jurisdiction in a wide range of contexts, such as validating pathological arbitration clauses, deciding whether tiered clauses present issues of jurisdiction or admissibility, and joinder of non-signatories, among others. Moreover, their willingness to grant interim remedies even before commencement of arbitration can be outcome-determinative. How do federal and state courts in California measure up? A distinguished panel of seasoned international arbitration experts will argue that California compares very favorably and is, in fact, a “Golden Gateway” to ICA.

Moderator:
  • Peter Neumann, Independent Arbitrator & Adjunct Professor at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
Speakers:
  • Hon. Michael Massengale (Former), FCIArb, Arbitrator & Mediator, JAMS – Houston
  • Prof. Jack Coe, Independent Arbitrator and Faculty Director, LLM in International Commercial Arbitration, Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
  • Jeffrey Daar, Senior Principal, Daar & Newman 
  • Angelina M. Petti, Partner, von Segesser Law Offices Ltd., Zurich 
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Shaping a Greener Future for International Arbitration: Experiences from East and West
Presented by Shanghai Arbitration Commission
The year 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by all United Nations Member States. The international arbitration community, which has become more and more vibrant across the globe, is a growing force in promoting the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Building on the experience of Shanghai Arbitration Commission (SHAC) in ESG and other green disputes based on the SHAC Expert Evaluation Model Rules of Green Disputes, and inspiring discussions held by SHAC on this topic in Dubai and New York, we look forward to sharing viewpoints and practices from east and west with California arbitration and law community and garner joint efforts to realize our shared goals of a greener future.

Welcome Remarks:
  • Mingchao FAN, Executive Vice President, SHAC
Speakers:
  • Haiyang CAO, China Leadership Team, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer, Syngenta Group
  • Gary GAO, Equity Partner, Zhong Lun Law Firm
  • Jeffrey G. Benz, Esq., FCIArb, FCollArb, CEDS, JAMS Mediator and Arbitrator, Barrister, 4 New Square Chambers
  • Kim Rooney, Independent arbitrator, barrister-at-law & mediator, Rede Chambers
  • Sherlin Tung, Partner / Registered foreign lawyer, Withersworldwide
  • Ruohan ZHU, Deputy Director of Research, SHAC

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