Houston – JAMS, the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, is pleased to announce the opening of its Houston International Arbitration Center. This dedicated space will expand access to international arbitration for the legal community in Houston and globally. The JAMS Houston International Arbitration Center will be available as a hearing facility for all international arbitrations, regardless of the administering body, as a JAMS-led effort to support the growth of Houston as an arbitral seat. The Houston Center builds on JAMS’ network of existing International Arbitration Centers located in the primary U.S. seats of arbitration, including New York City, Miami, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Houston, considered a global capital for the energy sector and gateway to matters arising from Latin America, offers a strong legal infrastructure and deep international business ties—particularly within the construction, energy, and oil and gas sectors. Houston and greater Texas are home to one of the largest concentrations of Mexican and Latin American companies in the U.S., creating both the demand and support ecosystem for arbitration proceedings that reflect regional commercial realities. Additionally, Mexico’s recent judicial reforms are expected to accelerate the use of ADR mechanisms, especially in complex commercial matters.
The new space features over a dozen conference rooms, which are outfitted with fully integrated, high-quality videoconferencing with 90-inch displays as well as tables with built-in power, Wi-Fi and AV outlets to promote efficient and comfortable proceedings. The center will also include private rooms for writing awards; a wellness room; printing, copying and faxing capabilities; and a JAMS Café with coffee and snacks.
“We are thrilled to welcome attorneys and their clients to this new facility, which will help expand access to international arbitration in Houston. As Houston continues to serve as an attractive seat for international arbitration within the United States, we look forward to connecting the extensive bench of experience of our local panelists to the evolving needs of the legal and business communities globally.”
Kimberly Taylor, JAMS CEO and president
Houston neutral Hon. Michael Massengale (Former), FCIArb, will be speaking on a panel regarding Houston’s position as a popular seat for international arbitration immediately prior to the 37th Annual Institute for Transnational Arbitration (ITA) Workshop and Annual Meeting, as part of the ITA Americas Initiative Luncheon. The lunch, taking place on June 11 at The Oceanaire Seafood Room in central Houston, complements the ITA Annual Meeting from June 11 to 13. The ITA Workshop and Annual Meeting brings together renowned faculty, ITA community members and colleagues from around the world for important discussions and workshops. A link to register for the conference can be found here.
Each year, JAMS handles hundreds of international arbitrations and provides important resources such as the JAMS International Arbitration Rules and the JAMS International Clause Workbook. More information about the number of international cases handled by JAMS can be found in the 2024 Resolution Report.
More information about the Houston International Arbitration Center can be found here.
About JAMS – Local Solutions. Global Reach.
Founded in 1979, JAMS is the largest private provider of alternative dispute resolution services worldwide. With a roster of nearly 500 neutrals and 29 locations, JAMS successfully resolves and manages tens of thousands of business and legal disputes by providing efficient, cost-effective and impartial ways to overcome barriers at any stage of conflict. JAMS offers customized in-person, virtual and hybrid resolution services locally and globally through a combination of industry-specific experience, first-class client service, the latest technology and highly trained mediators and arbitrators.
Building on this foundation, JAMS Pathways focuses on early conflict resolution, facilitation and training. Learn more about JAMS Pathways at jamspathways.com.
More information about JAMS is available at www.jamsadr.com, and you can connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and our JAMS ADR blog.