Who can be an arbitrator?

With the increasing demand and credibility for alternative dispute methods such as arbitration, states are now requiring certain criteria to be met in order to practice as an arbitrator. The criteria are different for each state, so you should contact your state’s bar association to learn about the requirements in your area.

Education

Most states require at least a bachelor’s degree in order to become a certified arbitrator. Often states and private certification companies also require that you’ve graduated from law school and have experience as an attorney.

Training

States vary widely on the type of training required for certification. Some states require no training at all. Other states have mandatory programs that are run through the courts to train arbitrators. Many states also require at one year of apprenticeship under a certified arbitrator.

Background

For specialized arbitration courts such as the IRS and the Better Business Bureau, you must be familiar with the particular area of law in question. Some organizations also require that you be recommended by another experienced judge or arbitrator in that particular area. Finally, some court arbitrators may be required to stand for questioning by the judge overseeing the case before they are permitted to arbitrate the issues.

Exploring Case Studies: Arbitration Qualifications

Case Study 1: Education

In the state of Arbitraland, becoming a certified arbitrator requires at least a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, the state and private certification companies often mandate graduation from law school and experience as an attorney. John, a passionate law graduate, fulfilled these criteria and pursued a career as an arbitrator.

Case Study 2: Training

ArbitraCorp, a leading arbitration company in the state of Legalia, has specific training requirements for arbitrator certification. Emily, aspiring to become an arbitrator, enrolled in the mandatory training program offered by ArbitraCorp. Through this program, she gained comprehensive knowledge and honed her skills in arbitration.

Case Study 3: Background

The Insurance Arbitration Court of Stateland requires its arbitrators to have a deep understanding of insurance law. Susan, a seasoned attorney specializing in insurance, obtained recommendations from experienced judges and arbitrators in the insurance sector. With her expertise and endorsements, she was selected as an arbitrator for insurance disputes.

Credentials

Sometimes an arbitration clause may specify qualifications of potential arbitrators. For example, reinsurance arbitration clauses typically require that the arbitrators be selected from among current or former officers of insurance companies.

Overall, it is vital that you verify your state’s requirements before advertising yourself as an arbitrator. Otherwise, you may find yourself being fined by the state or worse, have your certification revoked.