USC: The First Annual ADR Symposium

The Future of Party Arbitrator Practice in Commercial Arbitration
Tripartite arbitrations are increasingly common in larger commercial cases. Typically, parties each appoint a neutral arbitrator, and those two neutrals appoint a third arbitrator who acts as the Chair. Many have been concerned that party-appointed arbitrators are not truly "neutral" and that this process is burdened with unnecessary costs and delays. The panel will address these issues, assess suggested alternatives to this practice, and comment on the likelihood that commercial parties will embrace such changes.

Jay Folberg, Esq. | 1:45 PM - 3:00 PM (PST)

The Advantages and Pitfalls of Arbitration Regulation
Arbitration is now regulated more tightly than ever in California, covering the spectrum from more rigorous arbitrator disclosure requirements to rules governing the enforcement of arbitration awards. Have these rules and requirements helped or harmed arbitration users and participants?