New York — JAMS, The Resolution Experts, today adopted highly anticipated JAMS Recommended Arbitration Discovery Protocols (Protocols). The Protocols are designed to increase the speed and efficiency of discovery in JAMS arbitrations for domestic commercial cases while ensuring sufficient discovery to permit a carefully considered, fair result.
The Protocols address specific aspects of arbitration discovery which can lead to undue expense and delay if not handled by skilled, trained arbitrators adhering to meaningful guidelines. Among the topics covered by the JAMS Protocols are the efficient resolution of discovery disputes; e-discovery; depositions; requests for adjournments; and dispositive motions. Additionally, the Protocols set forth 27 factors that arbitrators should consider when determining the appropriate scope of discovery.
“The new Protocols mark an important turning point in addressing concerns about controlling costs and avoiding delays in arbitration,” said Chris Poole, JAMS President and CEO. “This is the latest JAMS initiative to help attorneys better manage arbitration and will serve as a model within the ADR community.”
As part of its arbitration discovery program, JAMS has enhanced existing industry-leading training programs to familiarize its already accomplished arbitrators with the philosophy and best practices for implementing the Protocols.
About JAMS, The Resolution Experts
Founded in 1979, JAMS, The Resolution Experts, is the nation’s largest private provider of mediation and arbitration services. With Resolution Centers nationwide, JAMS and its 250 full-time, exclusive neutrals are responsible for resolving thousands of the nation’s more important cases. JAMS may be reached at 800-352-5267.