JAMS Announces Updated International Arbitration Rules

Irvine, Calif. – JAMS, the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, is pleased to announce it has revised and updated its International Arbitration Rules & Procedures (Rules), effective March 1. The revisions are designed to help modernize the arbitration process, increase procedural clarity and support more sustainable practices.

“As international arbitration continues to grow and evolve, JAMS is committed to adapting in ways that promote clarity and consistency. These updates to our International Arbitration Rules support our neutrals in delivering a streamlined and sophisticated ADR process. They will assist our global panel and parties as they work toward efficient dispute resolution across JAMS International Arbitration Centers and beyond.”

Kimberly Taylor, JAMS CEO and president

As part of the key updates, the JAMS Mediator-in-Reserve policy has been incorporated into the Rules and slightly updated from the version previously available on the JAMS website. The policy had remained in effect but was not included in the previous published Rules beginning June 1, 2021. Under this approach, parties are encouraged to designate a mediator who will be placed in reserve during the pendency of an arbitration, ensuring the mediator is available should the parties decide to pursue mediation during the proceedings.

Changes to the Rules reflect commitment and support for the Campaign for Greener Arbitrations. Article 2 now permits the claimant to electronically serve the request for arbitration on the respondent, unless prohibited by the law of the seat of arbitration. The updates eliminate the requirement to submit hard copies of the Request for Arbitration and any accompanying documents. Parties may also file arbitration requests with JAMS exclusively in electronic format.

Article 13 has been updated to define “Electronic Filing (e-filing)” and “Electronic Service (e-service),” matching the definitions in the JAMS Comprehensive Arbitration Rules to ensure uniformity across rule sets. Article 13 also provides that documents that are being served as hard copies may be served by “hand-delivery, overnight delivery service or, if a party is located inside the United States, U.S. mail.” This eliminates the ability to serve “by any other means of communication that provides a record of transmission,” which was previously an option under Article 2.

A summary of key changes to the International Arbitration Rules can be viewed here.

About JAMS – The Way Forward

JAMS is the premier provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, handling more than 21,000 cases annually. With over 500 neutrals and 29 locations, JAMS delivers efficient, cost-effective and impartial solutions for business and legal disputes at any stage of conflict. Since its founding in 1979, its distinguished panel has included retired federal and state court judges, former litigators, transactional attorneys and other ADR professionals with deep industry and practice area experience. JAMS offers customized in-person, virtual and hybrid resolution services to provide a seamless experience through concierge-level client care, highly skilled case managers and advanced technology.

Building on this foundation, JAMS Pathways provides organizations with early conflict resolution, facilitation and training, helping teams prevent disputes before they escalate.

With a legacy of trust and innovation, JAMS helps parties find the way forward so they can focus on what matters most. Learn more at www.jamsadr.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and the JAMS ADR blog.