JAMS’ Global Footprint in ADR

Founded in 1979 in California, JAMS is the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in the United States, handling 21,000 cases annually. JAMS operates 28 Resolution Centers across major U.S. hubs, along with offices in London and Toronto. Rather than expanding physical sites, JAMS focuses on strategic partnerships with global ADR organizations to extend its reach.

The Evolution of the JAMS International Arbitration Rules

Davidson, the lead drafter of the JAMS International Arbitration Rules (first issued in 2008, revised in 2021), explained how the rules were created to deliver flexible, efficient processes for global disputes.

Key features include:

• Party autonomy: Arbitrators may be chosen from outside the JAMS roster.
• Consolidation and joinder: Management of related proceedings is available.
• Emergency relief: Interim measures are based on the UNCITRAL standard, without requiring proof of irreparable harm.
• Cost efficiency: Fees are tied to arbitrator time, plus a modest administrative charge.
• Integration of arbitration and mediation: Faster, cost-effective resolution is the result.

Davidson emphasized a unique rule:

“To my knowledge, we are the only international provider that provides that an interim measure can be granted on [the UNCITRAL] basis.”

This lower threshold allows parties in life sciences, technology, insurance and IP disputes to seek timely protection without the heavy evidentiary burdens imposed elsewhere. 

Growth in International Caseload

Humphrey noted that JAMS administered over 400 international cases in 2023, including 241 new filings. These involved commercial contract, M&A, insurance, intellectual property, construction, technology and life sciences disputes.

Top jurisdictions included the U.K., Canada, Singapore, China, Mexico and various EU member states. Growth is also visible in Asia, with JAMS’ clauses increasingly applied in Hong Kong and mainland China. 

Positioning for the Future

Looking ahead, Humphrey highlighted JAMS’ 2025 priority: expanding adoption of its arbitration clauses in cross-border contracts. JAMS is also preparing for disputes in blockchain, artificial intelligence and digital assets, underscored by its release of the AI Arbitration Rules in 2024—one of the first such initiatives globally. 

Why Parties Choose JAMS

Parties select JAMS not only for its international rules, but also for the practical advantages it brings to proceedings. These strengths consistently make JAMS a preferred forum for resolving complex cross-border disputes:

• Efficiency and cost control: Time-based billing avoids ad valorem fees.
• Flexibility: Proceedings are tailored to the complexity of the dispute.
• Access to mediation: Over half of JAMS’ caseload involves mediation.
• Global experience: Neutrals have ICC, LCIA, ICDR and HKIAC experience, plus strong U.S. grounding. 

As international arbitration evolves, JAMS strengthens its role through innovation, efficiency and experience. Its International Arbitration Rules, expanding caseload and focus on emerging sectors highlight a commitment to shaping cross-border dispute resolution.

For in-house counsel and practitioners worldwide, JAMS offers a strong alternative to traditional arbitral bodies—anchored in efficiency, autonomy and collaboration.