Preliminary Hearings and Procedural Orders in Arbitration (U.S.)


Summary

This practice note provides a brief overview of the essential matters to cover at preliminary hearings in U.S. arbitration, as well as the nature and purpose of both the preliminary hearing and the procedural order issued at or after that hearing. It also summarizes the preliminary hearing rules for the major U.S. arbitral institutions—the American Arbitration Association (AAA), International Centre for Dispute Resolution (ICDR), JAMS, and International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution (CPR)—as well as for ad hoc arbitrations under the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) rules. The note also sets forth tips to ensure an efficient and fair proceeding.