Arbitration is a form of private dispute resolution. Arbitrators are chosen by two contesting parties to settle legal disputes outside courtroom settings or judicial interaction. Arbitration can be a cost-effective alternative to litigation. Licensure is not required to be an arbitrator, but arbitrators are appointed across different dispute resolution specializations and concentrations by the American Arbitration Association.
Educational Background
The majority of arbitrators possess some formal training in law, public policy, business management or a related field. While a bachelor's degree is the customary minimum requirement, many arbitrators have completed master's degree level training in the field of their expertise. Professional experience at the entry or internship level with a practicing arbitrator is also pivotal for aspiring dispute resolution professionals in order to become familiar with the standard procedures and contemporary developments in the field.
Arbitrator Training
Basic arbitrator training is offered by several industry regulatory authorities nationwide. Many states offer continuing legal education (CLE) credit for arbitration courses. Basic arbitration courses cover standard rules and procedures as well as practical guidance, strategies and methods for resolving issues that are commonplace in the dispute resolution processes. Many arbitration regulatory authorities offer on-line training in conjunction with coursework.
Commercial and Consumer Arbitration
Arbitrators who specialize in commercial and consumer dispute resolutions settle disputes between customers, vendors and business partners. Arbitrators settle disputes across a myriad of industries including intellectual property, sports, commercial finance, investment banking and wireless communications. Entities such as individuals and corporate bodies commonly choose arbitration over litigation due to its promptness and fairness. Arbitrators who specialize in commercial and consumer cases often have professional backgrounds in related fields.
Employment and Labor Arbitration
Arbitrators who specialize in employment and labor resolutions settle conflicts that arise in workplaces, including wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination and violations of fair hiring practices. Labor and employment arbitrators also handle cases between corporate leaders and union groups, including collective bargaining disputes, pension plan disagreements as well as disputes involving employee benefits. Arbitrators who are certified in this realm of dispute resolution customarily have backgrounds in executive management, public policy and similar fields.
