In this Daily Journal livestream interview from California International Arbitration Week, JAMS neutral Laura Abrahamson reflects on a career spanning three decades in international arbitration, including years spent in-house managing complex disputes for global companies before becoming a full-time arbitrator and mediator. She also discusses her leadership in helping elevate California’s profile as a seat for international arbitration and shares why the state is increasingly well positioned for cross-border matters across industries such as energy, construction and technology. 

Abrahamson also highlights a topic central to users of arbitration: efficiency. Drawing on her in-house perspective, she discusses the importance of preserving arbitration’s flexibility and party choice while pursuing faster, more cost-effective procedures. From streamlined processes and written witness statements to mediation carve-outs and other practical tools, her interview offers valuable insight into how arbitration can continue to evolve to better serve parties.

Watch the full interview for her perspectives on California’s growing role in the field and the issues shaping international arbitration now.