How are arbitrators appointed?


Arbitrators are appointed on the basis of the so-called ‘list procedure’ unless the parties have agreed on a different method of appointment. Under the list procedure, the NAI, after receiving the short answer, composes a list of names of possible arbitrators. If one arbitrator is to be appointed, the list will contain at least three names. If three arbitrators are to be appointed, at least nine names will be listed.

The list is sent to both parties. Each party has 14 days to examine the list and to delete the names of persons against whom he has overriding objections; he will then number the remaining names in order of preference. In the case of international arbitration, each party will be given 28 days to examine the list.

The NAI compares the lists which have been returned and appoints the arbitrator(s) accordingly. Ideally, the names on the list are drawn from the NAI’s General Panel of Arbitrators. This Panel currently contains some 400 people with the necessary expertise and experience in a large number of fields.