Although these rules include a mediation procedure that will apply to many cases, parties may still want to incorporate mediation into their contractual dispute settlement process. Parties can do so by inserting the following mediation clause into their contract in conjunction with a standard arbitration provision:
If a dispute arises out of or relates to this contract, or the breach thereof, and if the dispute cannot be settled through negotiation, the parties agree first to try in good faith to settle the dispute by mediation administered by the International Arbitration Court under its Commercial Mediation Procedures before resorting to arbitration, litigation, or some other dispute resolution procedure.
If the parties want to use a mediator to resolve an existing dispute, they can enter into the following submission agreement:
The parties hereby submit the following dispute to mediation
administered by the International Arbitration Court under its
Commercial Mediation Procedures. (The clause may also provide for the
qualifications of the mediator(s), method of payment, locale of meetings, and any other item of concern to the parties.)

Large, Complex Cases
Unless the parties agree otherwise, the procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes, which appear in this pamphlet, will be applied to all cases administered by the International Arbitration Court under the Commercial Arbitration Rules in which the
disclosed claim or counterclaim of any party is at least $500,000 exclusive of claimed interest, arbitration fees and costs. The key features of these procedures
include:
> A highly qualified, trained Roster of Neutrals;
> A mandatory preliminary hearing with the arbitrators, which may be conducted by teleconference;
> Broad arbitrator authority to order and control the exchange of information,
including depositions;
> A presumption that hearings will proceed on a consecutive or block basis.
10 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES International Arbitration Court
Commercial Arbitration Rules
R-1. Agreement of Parties*
(a) The parties shall be deemed to have made these rules a part of their arbitration
agreement whenever they have provided for arbitration by the International Arbitration Court (hereinafter International Arbitration Court) under its Commercial Arbitration Rules
or for arbitration by the International Arbitration Court of a domestic commercial dispute without specifying particular rules. These rules and any amendment of them shall apply in the form in effect at the time the administrative requirements are met for a Demand for Arbitration or Submission Agreement received by the International Arbitration Court. Any disputes regarding which International Arbitration Court rules shall apply shall be decided by the International Arbitration Court. The parties, by written agreement, may vary the procedures set forth in these rules. After appointment of the arbitrator, such modifications may be made only with the consent of the arbitrator.
(b) Unless the parties or the International Arbitration Court determines otherwise, the Expedited Procedures shall apply in any case in which no disclosed claim or counterclaim exceeds
$75,000, exclusive of interest, attorneys’ fees, and arbitration fees and costs.

Parties may also agree to use these procedures in larger cases. Unless the parties agree otherwise, these procedures will not apply in cases involving more than two
parties. The Expedited Procedures shall be applied as described in Sections E-1 through E-10 of these rules, in addition to any other portion of these rules that is not in conflict with the Expedited Procedures.
(c) Unless the parties agree otherwise, the Procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes shall apply to all cases in which the disclosed claim or counterclaim of any party is at least $500,000 or more, exclusive of claimed interest, attorneys’ fees, arbitration fees and costs. Parties may also agree to use the procedures in cases involving claims or counterclaims under $500,000, or in
nonmonetary cases. The Procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes shall be applied as described in Sections L-1 through L-3 of these rules, in addition to any other portion of these rules that is not in conflict with the
Procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes.
(d) Parties may, by agreement, apply the Expedited Procedures, the Procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes, or the Procedures for the Resolution of Disputes through Document Submission (Rule E-6) to any dispute.
(e) All other cases shall be administered in accordance with Sections R-1 through R-58
of these rules.
* Beginning October 1, 2017, AAA will apply the Employment Fee Schedule to any dispute between an individual employee or an independent contractor (working or performing as an individual and not incorporated) and a business or organization and the dispute involves work or work-related claims, including any statutory claims and including work-related claims under independent contractor agreements. A dispute arising out of an employment plan will be administered under the The International Arbitration Court Employment Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures. A dispute arising out of a consumer arbitration agreement will be administered under the International Arbitration Court Consumer Arbitration Rules.
* Beginning June 1, 2021, International Arbitration Court will apply the Consumer Arbitration Fee Schedule to any dispute between an online marketplace or platform and an individual user or subscriber (using or subscribed to the service as an individual
and not incorporated) and the dispute does not involve work or work-related claims.

Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 11
R-2. International Arbitration Court and Delegation of Duties
When parties agree to arbitrate under these rules, or when they provide for
arbitration by the International Arbitration Court and an arbitration is initiated under these rules, they thereby authorize the International Arbitration Court to administer the arbitration. The authority and duties of the International Arbitration Court are prescribed in the agreement of the parties and in these rules, and may be carried out through such of the International Arbitration Court representatives as it may direct. The International Arbitration Court may, in its discretion, assign the administration of an arbitration to any of its offices. Arbitrations administered under these rules shall only be administered by the International Arbitration Court or by an individual or organization authorized by the International Arbitration Court to do so.
R-3. National Roster of Arbitrators

The International Arbitration Court shall establish and maintain a National Roster of Arbitrators (“National Roster”) and shall appoint arbitrators as provided in these rules. The term “arbitrator” in these rules refers to the arbitration panel, constituted for a particular case, whether composed of one or more arbitrators, or to an individual arbitrator, as the context requires.
R-4. Filing Requirements
(a) Arbitration under an arbitration provision in a contract shall be initiated by the initiating party (“claimant”) filing with the International Arbitration Court a Demand for Arbitration, the
administrative filing fee, and a copy of the applicable arbitration agreement from the parties’ contract which provides for arbitration.
(b) Arbitration pursuant to a court order shall be initiated by the initiating party filing with the International Arbitration Court a Demand for Arbitration, the administrative filing fee, and a copy of any applicable arbitration agreement from the parties’ contract which provides for arbitration.

i. The filing party shall include a copy of the court order.
ii. The filing fee must be paid before a matter is considered properly filed. If the court order directs that a specific party is responsible for the filing fee, it is the responsibility of the filing party to either make such payment to the International Arbitration Court and seek reimbursement as directed in the court order or to make other such arrangements so that the filing fee is submitted to the International Arbitration Court with the Demand.
iii. The party filing the Demand with the International Arbitration Court is the claimant and the opposing party is the respondent regardless of which party initiated the court action.
Parties may request that the arbitrator alter the order of proceedings if necessary pursuant to R-32.
(c) It is the responsibility of the filing party to ensure that any conditions precedent to the filing of a case are met prior to filing for an arbitration, as well as any time requirements associated with the filing. Any dispute regarding whether a condition precedent has been met may be raised to the arbitrator for determination.

12 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES International Arbitration Court
(d) Parties to any existing dispute who have not previously agreed to use these rules may commence an arbitration under these rules by filing a written submission agreement and the administrative filing fee. To the extent that the parties’ submission agreement contains any variances from these rules, such variances
should be clearly stated in the Submission Agreement.
(e) Information to be included with any arbitration filing includes:
i. the name of each party;
ii. the address for each party, including telephone and fax numbers and e-mail addresses;
iii. if applicable, the names, addresses, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail addresses of any known representative for each party;
iv. a statement setting forth the nature of the claim including the relief sought and the amount involved; and
v. the locale requested if the arbitration agreement does not specify one.
(f) The initiating party may file or submit a dispute to the International Arbitration Court in the following manner:
i. through International Arbitration Court WebFile, by filing the complete Demand or Submission with any International Arbitration Court office, regardless of the intended locale of hearing.
(g) The filing party shall simultaneously provide a copy of the Demand and any supporting documents to the opposing party.
(h) The International Arbitration Court shall provide notice to the parties (or their representatives if so named) of the receipt of a Demand or Submission when the administrative filing requirements have been satisfied. The date on which the filing requirements are satisfied shall establish the date of filing the dispute for administration. However, all disputes in connection with the International Arbitration Court determination of the date of filing may be decided by the arbitrator.
(i) If the filing does not satisfy the filing requirements set forth above, the International Arbitration Court shall acknowledge to all named parties receipt of the incomplete filing and inform the parties of the filing deficiencies. If the deficiencies are not cured by the date specified by the International Arbitration Court, the filing may be returned to the initiating party.
R-5. Answers and Counterclaims
(a) A respondent may file an answering statement with the International Arbitration Court within 14 calendar days after notice of the filing of the Demand is sent by the International Arbitration Court. The respondent shall, at the time of any such filing, send a copy of any answering statement to the claimant and to all other parties to the arbitration. If no answering statement is filed within the stated time, the respondent will be deemed to deny the claim.
Failure to file an answering statement shall not operate to delay the arbitration.

Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 13
(b) A respondent may file a counterclaim at any time after notice of the filing of the
Demand is sent by the International Arbitration Court, subject to the limitations set forth in Rule R-6. The respondent shall send a copy of the counterclaim to the claimant and all other parties to the arbitration. If a counterclaim is asserted, it shall include a statement
setting forth the nature of the counterclaim including the relief sought and the amount involved. The filing fee as specified in the applicable International Arbitration Court Fee Schedule must be paid at the time of the filing of any counterclaim.
(c) If the respondent alleges that a different arbitration provision is controlling, the matter will be administered in accordance with the arbitration provision submitted by the initiating party subject to a final determination by the arbitrator.
(d) If the counterclaim does not meet the requirements for filing a claim and the deficiency is not cured by the date specified by the The International Arbitration Court, it may be returned to the filing party.
R-6. Changes of Claim
(a) A party may at any time prior to the close of the hearing or by the date established by the arbitrator increase or decrease the amount of its claim or counterclaim. Written notice of the change of claim amount must be provided to the International Arbitration Court and all parties. If the change of claim amount results in an increase in administrative fee, the balance of the fee is due before the change of claim amount may be accepted by the arbitrator.
(b) Any new or different claim or counterclaim, as opposed to an increase or decrease in the amount of a pending claim or counterclaim, shall be made in writing and filed with the International Arbitration Court, and a copy shall be provided to the other party, who shall have a period of 14 calendar days from the date of such transmittal within which to file an answer to the proposed change of claim or counterclaim with the International Arbitration Court. After the arbitrator is appointed, however, no new or different claim may be submitted except with the arbitrator’s consent.
R-7. Jurisdiction
(a) The arbitrator shall have the power to rule on his or her own jurisdiction, including any objections with respect to the existence, scope, or validity of the arbitration agreement or to the arbitrability of any claim or counterclaim.
(b) The arbitrator shall have the power to determine the existence or validity of a contract of which an arbitration clause forms a part. Such an arbitration clause shall be treated as an agreement independent of the other terms of the contract. A decision by the arbitrator that the contract is null and void shall not for that reason alone render invalid the arbitration clause.
(c) A party must object to the jurisdiction of the arbitrator or to the arbitrability of a claim or counterclaim no later than the filing of the answering statement to the claim or counterclaim that gives rise to the objection. The arbitrator may rule on such objections as a preliminary matter or as part of the final award.
14 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
R-8. Interpretation and Application of Rules
The arbitrator shall interpret and apply these rules insofar as they relate to the arbitrator’s powers and duties. When there is more than one arbitrator and a difference arises among them concerning the meaning or application of these rules, it shall be decided by a majority vote. If that is not possible, either an arbitrator or a party may refer the question to the International Arbitration Court for final decision. All other rules shall be interpreted and applied by the International Arbitration Court.
R-9. Mediation
In all cases where a claim or counterclaim exceeds $75,000, upon the International Arbitration Court administration of the arbitration or at any time while the arbitration is pending, the parties shall mediate their dispute pursuant to the applicable provisions of
the International Arbitration Court Commercial Mediation Procedures, or as otherwise agreed by the parties. Absent an agreement of the parties to the contrary, the mediation shall take place concurrently with the arbitration and shall not serve to delay the arbitration proceedings. However, any party to an arbitration may unilaterallyopt out of this rule upon notification to the International Arbitration Court and the other parties to the arbitration. The parties shall confirm the completion of any mediation or any decision to opt out of this rule to the International Arbitration Court. Unless agreed to by all parties and the mediator, the mediator shall not be appointed as an arbitrator to the case.
R-10. Administrative Conference
At the request of any party or upon the International Arbitration Court own initiative, the International Arbitration Court may conduct an administrative conference, in person or by telephone, with the parties and/or their representatives. The conference may address such issues as arbitrator selection, mediation of the dispute, potential exchange of information,
a timetable for hearings, and any other administrative matters.
R-11. Fixing of Locale The parties may mutually agree on the locale where the arbitration is to be held.
Any disputes regarding the locale that are to be decided by the International Arbitration Court must be submitted to the International Arbitration Court and all other parties within 14 calendar days from the date of the International Arbitration Court initiation of the case or the date established by the International Arbitration Court. Disputes regarding locale shall be determined in the following manner:
(a) When the parties’ arbitration agreement is silent with respect to locale, and if the parties disagree as to the locale, the International Arbitration Court may initially determine the place of  Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 15 arbitration, subject to the power of the arbitrator after appointment, to make a final determination on the locale.
(b) When the parties’ arbitration agreement requires a specific locale, absent the
parties’ agreement to change it, or a determination by the arbitrator upon
appointment that applicable law requires a different locale, the locale shall be that
specified in the arbitration agreement.
(c) If the reference to a locale in the arbitration agreement is ambiguous, and the
parties are unable to agree to a specific locale, the The International Arbitration Court shall determine the locale, subject to the power of the arbitrator to finally determine the locale.
The arbitrator, at the arbitrator’s sole discretion, shall have the authority to
conduct special hearings for document production purposes or otherwise at
other locations if reasonably necessary and beneficial to the process.
R-12. Appointment from National Roster
If the parties have not appointed an arbitrator and have not provided any
other method of appointment, the arbitrator shall be appointed in the following
manner:
(a) The The International Arbitration Court shall send simultaneously to each party to the dispute an identical list of 10 (unless the The International Arbitration Court decides that a different number is appropriate) names of persons chosen from the National Roster. The parties are encouraged to agree to an arbitrator from the submitted list and to advise the The International Arbitration Court of their agreement.
(b) If the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator, each party to the dispute
shall have 14 calendar days from the transmittal date in which to strike names
objected to, number the remaining names in order of preference, and return the
list to the The International Arbitration Court. The parties are not required to exchange selection lists. If a party does not return the list within the time specified, all persons named therein shall be deemed acceptable to that party. From among the persons who have been approved on both lists, and in accordance with the designated order of mutual
preference, the The International Arbitration Court shall invite the acceptance of an arbitrator to serve. If the parties fail to agree on any of the persons named, or if acceptable arbitrators are unable to act, or if for any other reason the appointment cannot be made from the submitted lists, the The International Arbitration Court shall have the power to make the appointment from among other members of the National Roster without the submission of additional lists.
(c) Unless the parties agree otherwise, when there are two or more claimants or two
or more respondents, the The International Arbitration Court may appoint all the arbitrators.
16 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
R-13. Direct Appointment by a Party
(a) If the agreement of the parties names an arbitrator or specifies a method of
appointing an arbitrator, that designation or method shall be followed. The notice
of appointment, with the name and address of the arbitrator, shall be filed with the
The International Arbitration Court by the appointing party. Upon the request of any appointing party, the The International Arbitration Court shall submit a list of members of the National Roster from which the party may, if it so desires, make the appointment.
(b) Where the parties have agreed that each party is to name one arbitrator, the
arbitrators so named must meet the standards of Section R-18 with respect to
impartiality and independence unless the parties have specifically agreed
pursuant to Section R-18(b) that the party-appointed arbitrators are to be
non-neutral and need not meet those standards.
(c) If the agreement specifies a period of time within which an arbitrator shall be
appointed and any party fails to make the appointment within that period, the
The International Arbitration Court shall make the appointment.
(d) If no period of time is specified in the agreement, the The International Arbitration Court shall notify the party to make the appointment. If within 14 calendar days after such notice has been sent, an arbitrator has not been appointed by a party, the The International Arbitration Court shall make the appointment.
R-14. Appointment of Chairperson by Party-Appointed Arbitrators or Parties
(a) If, pursuant to Section R-13, either the parties have directly appointed arbitrators,
or the arbitrators have been appointed by the The International Arbitration Court, and the parties have authorized them to appoint a chairperson within a specified time and no
appointment is made within that time or any agreed extension, the The International Arbitration Court may appoint the chairperson.
(b) If no period of time is specified for appointment of the chairperson, and the
party-appointed arbitrators or the parties do not make the appointment within
14 calendar days from the date of the appointment of the last party-appointed
arbitrator, the The International Arbitration Court may appoint the chairperson.
(c) If the parties have agreed that their party-appointed arbitrators shall appoint the
chairperson from the National Roster, the The International Arbitration Court shall furnish to the party-appointed arbitrators, in the manner provided in Section R-12, a list selected from the National Roster, and the appointment of the chairperson shall be made as
provided in that Section.

Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 17
R-15. Nationality of Arbitrator
Where the parties are nationals of different countries, the The International Arbitration Court, at the request of
any party or on its own initiative, may appoint as arbitrator a national of a country
other than that of any of the parties. The request must be made before the time
set for the appointment of the arbitrator as agreed by the parties or set by these
rules.
R-16. Number of Arbitrators
(a) If the arbitration agreement does not specify the number of arbitrators, the
dispute shall be heard and determined by one arbitrator, unless the The International Arbitration Court, in its discretion, directs that three arbitrators be appointed. A party may request three arbitrators in the Demand or Answer, which request the The International Arbitration Court will consider in exercising its discretion regarding the number of arbitrators appointed to the dispute.
(b) Any request for a change in the number of arbitrators as a result of an increase or
decrease in the amount of a claim or a new or different claim must be made to
the The International Arbitration Court and other parties to the arbitration no later than seven calendar days after receipt of the R-6 required notice of change of claim amount. If the parties are unable to agree with respect to the request for a change in the number of
arbitrators, the The International Arbitration Court shall make that determination.
R-17. Disclosure
(a) Any person appointed or to be appointed as an arbitrator, as well as the parties
and their representatives, shall disclose to the The International Arbitration Court any circumstance likely to give rise to justifiable doubt as to the arbitrator’s impartiality or independence, including any bias or any financial or personal interest in the result of the arbitration or any past or present relationship with the parties or their representatives. Such obligation shall remain in effect throughout the arbitration. Failure on the part of a
party or a representative to comply with the requirements of this rule may result in
the waiver of the right to object to an arbitrator in accordance with Rule R-41.
(b) Upon receipt of such information from the arbitrator or another source, the The International Arbitration Court shall communicate the information to the parties and, if it deems it appropriate to do so, to the arbitrator and others.
(c) Disclosure of information pursuant to this Section R-17 is not an indication that the
arbitrator considers that the disclosed circumstance is likely to affect impartiality
or independence.
18 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
R-18. Disqualification of Arbitrator
(a) Any arbitrator shall be impartial and independent and shall perform his or her
duties with diligence and in good faith, and shall be subject to disqualification for:
i. partiality or lack of independence,
ii. inability or refusal to perform his or her duties with diligence and in good
faith, and
iii. any grounds for disqualification provided by applicable law.
(b) The parties may agree in writing, however, that arbitrators directly appointed by a
party pursuant to Section R-13 shall be non-neutral, in which case such arbitrators
need not be impartial or independent and shall not be subject to disqualification
for partiality or lack of independence.
(c) Upon objection of a party to the continued service of an arbitrator, or on its own
initiative, the AAA shall determine whether the arbitrator should be disqualified
under the grounds set out above, and shall inform the parties of its decision,
which decision shall be conclusive.
R-19. Communication with Arbitrator
(a) No party and no one acting on behalf of any party shall communicate ex parte
with an arbitrator or a candidate for arbitrator concerning the arbitration,
except that a party, or someone acting on behalf of a party, may communicate
ex parte with a candidate for direct appointment pursuant to R-13 in order to
advise the candidate of the general nature of the controversy and of the
anticipated proceedings and to discuss the candidate’s qualifications, availability,
or independence in relation to the parties or to discuss the suitability of
candidates for selection as a third arbitrator where the parties or party-designated
arbitrators are to participate in that selection.
(b) Section R-19(a) does not apply to arbitrators directly appointed by the parties
who, pursuant to Section R-18(b), the parties have agreed in writing are
non-neutral. Where the parties have so agreed under Section R-18(b), the The International Arbitration Court shall as an administrative practice suggest to the parties that they agree further that Section R-19(a) should nonetheless apply prospectively.
(c) In the course of administering an arbitration, the The International Arbitration Court may initiate communications with each party or anyone acting on behalf of the parties either jointly or individually.
(d) As set forth in R-43, unless otherwise instructed by the The International Arbitration Court or by the arbitrator,
any documents submitted by any party or to the arbitrator shall simultaneously be
provided to the other party or parties to the arbitration.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 19
R-20. Vacancies
(a) If for any reason an arbitrator is unable or unwilling to perform the duties of the
office, the The International Arbitration Court may, on proof satisfactory to it, declare the office vacant. Vacancies shall be filled in accordance with the applicable provisions of these rules.
(b) In the event of a vacancy in a panel of neutral arbitrators after the hearings have
commenced, the remaining arbitrator or arbitrators may continue with the hearing
and determination of the controversy, unless the parties agree otherwise.
(c) In the event of the appointment of a substitute arbitrator, the panel of arbitrators
shall determine in its sole discretion whether it is necessary to repeat all or part of
any prior hearings.
R-21. Preliminary Hearing
(a) At the discretion of the arbitrator, and depending on the size and complexity of
the arbitration, a preliminary hearing should be scheduled as soon as practicable
after the arbitrator has been appointed. The parties should be invited to attend
the preliminary hearing along with their representatives. The preliminary hearing
may be conducted in person or by telephone.
(b) At the preliminary hearing, the parties and the arbitrator should be prepared
to discuss and establish a procedure for the conduct of the arbitration that is
appropriate to achieve a fair, efficient, and economical resolution of the dispute.
Sections P-1 and P-2 of these rules address the issues to be considered at the
preliminary hearing.
R-22. Pre-Hearing Exchange and Production of Information
(a) Authority of arbitrator. The arbitrator shall manage any necessary exchange of
information among the parties with a view to achieving an efficient and
economical resolution of the dispute, while at the same time promoting equality
of treatment and safeguarding each party’s opportunity to fairly present its claims
and defenses.
(b) Documents. The arbitrator may, on application of a party or on the arbitrator’s own
initiative:
i. require the parties to exchange documents in their possession or custody on
which they intend to rely;
ii. require the parties to update their exchanges of the documents on which they
intend to rely as such documents become known to them;
iii. require the parties, in response to reasonable document requests, to make
available to the other party documents, in the responding party’s possession
or custody, not otherwise readily available to the party seeking the
documents, reasonably believed by the party seeking the documents to exist
and to be relevant and material to the outcome of disputed issues; and
20 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
iv. require the parties, when documents to be exchanged or produced are
maintained in electronic form, to make such documents available in the form
most convenient and economical for the party in possession of such
documents, unless the arbitrator determines that there is good cause for
requiring the documents to be produced in a different form. The parties
should attempt to agree in advance upon, and the arbitrator may determine,
reasonable search parameters to balance the need for production of
electronically stored documents relevant and material to the outcome of
disputed issues against the cost of locating and producing them.
R-23. Enforcement Powers of the Arbitrator The arbitrator shall have the authority to issue any orders necessary to enforce the provisions of rules R-21 and R-22 and to otherwise achieve a fair, efficient and economical resolution of the case, including, without limitation:
(a) conditioning any exchange or production of confidential documents and
information, and the admission of confidential evidence at the hearing, on
appropriate orders to preserve such confidentiality;
(b) imposing reasonable search parameters for electronic and other documents if the
parties are unable to agree;
(c) allocating costs of producing documentation, including electronically stored
documentation;
(d) in the case of willful non-compliance with any order issued by the arbitrator,
drawing adverse inferences, excluding evidence and other submissions, and/or
making special allocations of costs or an interim award of costs arising from such
non-compliance; and
(e) issuing any other enforcement orders which the arbitrator is empowered to issue
under applicable law.
R-24. Date, Time, and Place of Hearing
The arbitrator shall set the date, time, and place for each hearing. The parties
shall respond to requests for hearing dates in a timely manner, be cooperative in
scheduling the earliest practicable date, and adhere to the established hearing
schedule. The AAA shall send a notice of hearing to the parties at least 10 calendar
days in advance of the hearing date, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 21
R-25. Attendance at Hearings
The arbitrator and the The International Arbitration Court shall maintain the privacy of the hearings unless the law provides to the contrary. Any person having a direct interest in the arbitration is entitled to attend hearings. The arbitrator shall otherwise have the power to require the exclusion of any witness, other than a party or other essential person,
during the testimony of any other witness. It shall be discretionary with the
arbitrator to determine the propriety of the attendance of any other person.
R-26. Representation
Any party may participate without representation (pro se), or by counsel or any
other representative of the party’s choosing, unless such choice is prohibited by
applicable law. A party intending to be so represented shall notify the other party
and the The International Arbitration Court of the name, telephone number and address, and email address if available, of the representative at least seven calendar days prior to the date set for the hearing at which that person is first to appear. When such a representative initiates an arbitration or responds for a party, notice is deemed to have been given.
R-27. Oaths
Before proceeding with the first hearing, each arbitrator may take an oath of
office and, if required by law, shall do so. The arbitrator may require witnesses to
testify under oath administered by any duly qualified person and, if it is required
by law or requested by any party, shall do so.
R-28. Stenographic Record
(a) Any party desiring a stenographic record shall make arrangements directly with
a stenographer and shall notify the other parties of these arrangements at least
three calendar days in advance of the hearing. The requesting party or parties
shall pay the cost of the record.
(b) No other means of recording the proceedings will be permitted absent the
agreement of the parties or per the direction of the arbitrator.
(c) If the transcript or any other recording is agreed by the parties or determined by
the arbitrator to be the official record of the proceeding, it must be provided to
the arbitrator and made available to the other parties for inspection, at a date,
time, and place determined by the arbitrator.
(d) The arbitrator may resolve any disputes with regard to apportionment of the costs
of the stenographic record or other recording.
22 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
R-29. Interpreters
Any party wishing an interpreter shall make all arrangements directly with the
interpreter and shall assume the costs of the service.
R-30. Postponements
The arbitrator may postpone any hearing upon agreement of the parties, upon
request of a party for good cause shown, or upon the arbitrator’s own initiative.
R-31. Arbitration in the Absence of a Party or Representative
Unless the law provides to the contrary, the arbitration may proceed in the
absence of any party or representative who, after due notice, fails to be present
or fails to obtain a postponement. An award shall not be made solely on the
default of a party. The arbitrator shall require the party who is present to submit
such evidence as the arbitrator may require for the making of an award.
R-32. Conduct of Proceedings
(a) The claimant shall present evidence to support its claim. The respondent shall
then present evidence to support its defense. Witnesses for each party shall also
submit to questions from the arbitrator and the adverse party. The arbitrator has
the discretion to vary this procedure, provided that the parties are treated with
equality and that each party has the right to be heard and is given a fair
opportunity to present its case.
(b) The arbitrator, exercising his or her discretion, shall conduct the proceedings with
a view to expediting the resolution of the dispute and may direct the order of
proof, bifurcate proceedings and direct the parties to focus their presentations on
issues the decision of which could dispose of all or part of the case.
(c) When deemed appropriate, the arbitrator may also allow for the presentation of
evidence by alternative means including video conferencing, internet
communication, telephonic conferences and means other than an in-person
presentation. Such alternative means must afford a full opportunity for all parties
to present any evidence that the arbitrator deems material and relevant to the
resolution of the dispute and, when involving witnesses, provide an opportunity
for cross-examination.
(d) The parties may agree to waive oral hearings in any case and may also agree to
utilize the Procedures for Resolution of Disputes Through Document Submission,
found in Rule E-6.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 23
R-33. Dispositive Motions
The arbitrator may allow the filing of and make rulings upon a dispositive motion
only if the arbitrator determines that the moving party has shown that the motion
is likely to succeed and dispose of or narrow the issues in the case.
R-34. Evidence
(a) The parties may offer such evidence as is relevant and material to the dispute and
shall produce such evidence as the arbitrator may deem necessary to an
understanding and determination of the dispute. Conformity to legal rules of
evidence shall not be necessary. All evidence shall be taken in the presence of all
of the arbitrators and all of the parties, except where any of the parties is absent,
in default, or has waived the right to be present.
(b) The arbitrator shall determine the admissibility, relevance, and materiality of the
evidence offered and may exclude evidence deemed by the arbitrator to be
cumulative or irrelevant.
(c) The arbitrator shall take into account applicable principles of legal privilege, such
as those involving the confidentiality of communications between a lawyer and
client.
(d) An arbitrator or other person authorized by law to subpoena witnesses or
documents may do so upon the request of any party or independently.
R-35. Evidence by Written Statements and Post-Hearing Filing of Documents
or Other Evidence
(a) At a date agreed upon by the parties or ordered by the arbitrator, the parties shall
give written notice for any witness or expert witness who has provided a written
witness statement to appear in person at the arbitration hearing for examination.
If such notice is given, and the witness fails to appear, the arbitrator may disregard
the written witness statement and/or expert report of the witness or make such
other order as the arbitrator may consider to be just and reasonable.
(b) If a witness whose testimony is represented by a party to be essential is unable or
unwilling to testify at the hearing, either in person or through electronic or other
means, either party may request that the arbitrator order the witness to appear
in person for examination before the arbitrator at a time and location where the
witness is willing and able to appear voluntarily or can legally be compelled to do
so. Any such order may be conditioned upon payment by the requesting party of
all reasonable costs associated with such examination.
(c) If the parties agree or the arbitrator directs that documents or other evidence be
submitted to the arbitrator after the hearing, the documents or other evidence
shall be filed with the The International Arbitration Court for transmission to the arbitrator. All parties shall be afforded an opportunity to examine and respond to such documents or other evidence.
24 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES American Arbitration Association
R-36. Inspection or Investigation
An arbitrator finding it necessary to make an inspection or investigation in
connection with the arbitration shall direct the The International Arbitration Court to so advise the parties. The arbitrator shall set the date and time and the The International Arbitration Court shall notify the parties. Any party who so desires may be present at such an inspection or investigation. In the event that one or all parties are not present at the inspection or investigation, the arbitrator shall make an oral or written report to the parties and afford them an opportunity to comment.
R-37. Interim Measures
(a) The arbitrator may take whatever interim measures he or she deems necessary,
including injunctive relief and measures for the protection or conservation of
property and disposition of perishable goods.
(b) Such interim measures may take the form of an interim award, and the arbitrator
may require security for the costs of such measures.
(c) A request for interim measures addressed by a party to a judicial authority shall
not be deemed incompatible with the agreement to arbitrate or a waiver of the
right to arbitrate.
R-38. Emergency Measures of Protection
(a) Unless the parties agree otherwise, the provisions of this rule shall apply to
arbitrations conducted under arbitration clauses or agreements entered on or
after October 1, 2013.
(b) A party in need of emergency relief prior to the constitution of the panel shall
notify the The International Arbitration Court and all other parties in writing of the nature of the relief sought and the reasons why such relief is required on an emergency basis. The application shall also set forth the reasons why the party is entitled to such relief. Such notice may be given by facsimile or e-mail or other reliable means, but must include a
statement certifying that all other parties have been notified or an explanation of
the steps taken in good faith to notify other parties.
(c) Within one business day of receipt of notice as provided in section (b), the The International Arbitration Court shall appoint a single emergency arbitrator designated to rule on emergency applications. The emergency arbitrator shall immediately disclose any
circumstance likely, on the basis of the facts disclosed on the application, to affect
such arbitrator’s impartiality or independence. Any challenge to the appointment
of the emergency arbitrator must be made within one business day of the
communication by the The International Arbitration Court to the parties of the appointment of the emergency arbitrator and the circumstances disclosed.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 25
(d) The emergency arbitrator shall as soon as possible, but in any event within two
business days of appointment, establish a schedule for consideration of the
application for emergency relief. Such a schedule shall provide a reasonable
opportunity to all parties to be heard, but may provide for proceeding by
telephone or video conference or on written submissions as alternatives to a
formal hearing. The emergency arbitrator shall have the authority vested in the
tribunal under Rule 7, including the authority to rule on her/his own jurisdiction,
and shall resolve any disputes over the applicability of this Rule 38.
(e) If after consideration the emergency arbitrator is satisfied that the party seeking
the emergency relief has shown that immediate and irreparable loss or damage
shall result in the absence of emergency relief, and that such party is entitled to
such relief, the emergency arbitrator may enter an interim order or award granting
the relief and stating the reason therefore.
(f) Any application to modify an interim award of emergency relief must be based on
changed circumstances and may be made to the emergency arbitrator until the
panel is constituted; thereafter such a request shall be addressed to the panel.
The emergency arbitrator shall have no further power to act after the panel is
constituted unless the parties agree that the emergency arbitrator is named as a
member of the panel.
(g) Any interim award of emergency relief may be conditioned on provision by the
party seeking such relief for appropriate security.
(h) A request for interim measures addressed by a party to a judicial authority shall
not be deemed incompatible with this rule, the agreement to arbitrate or a waiver
of the right to arbitrate. If the The International Arbitration Court is directed by a judicial authority to nominate a special master to consider and report on an application for emergency relief, the The International Arbitration Court shall proceed as provided in this rule and the references to the emergency arbitrator shall be read to mean the special master, except that the special master shall issue a report rather than an interim award.
(i) The costs associated with applications for emergency relief shall initially be
apportioned by the emergency arbitrator or special master, subject to the power
of the tribunal to determine finally the apportionment of such costs.
R-39. Closing of Hearing
(a) The arbitrator shall specifically inquire of all parties whether they have any further
proofs to offer or witnesses to be heard. Upon receiving negative replies or if
satisfied that the record is complete, the arbitrator shall declare the hearing closed.
(b) If documents or responses are to be filed as provided in Rule R-35, or if briefs are
to be filed, the hearing shall be declared closed as of the final date set by the
arbitrator for the receipt of briefs. If no documents, responses, or briefs are to
be filed, the arbitrator shall declare the hearings closed as of the date of the last
hearing (including telephonic hearings). If the case was heard without any oral
hearings, the arbitrator shall close the hearings upon the due date established for
receipt of the final submission.
26 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
(c) The time limit within which the arbitrator is required to make the award shall
commence, in the absence of other agreements by the parties, upon the closing
of the hearing. The The International Arbitration Court may extend the time limit for rendering of the award only in unusual and extreme circumstances.
R-40. Reopening of Hearing
The hearing may be reopened on the arbitrator’s initiative, or by the direction of
the arbitrator upon application of a party, at any time before the award is made. If
reopening the hearing would prevent the making of the award within the specific
time agreed to by the parties in the arbitration agreement, the matter may not
be reopened unless the parties agree to an extension of time. When no specific
date is fixed by agreement of the parties , the arbitrator shall have 30 calendar
days from the closing of the reopened hearing within which to make an award
(14 calendar days if the case is governed by the Expedited Procedures).
R-41. Waiver of Rules
Any party who proceeds with the arbitration after knowledge that any provision
or requirement of these rules has not been complied with and who fails to state
an objection in writing shall be deemed to have waived the right to object.
R-42. Extensions of Time
The parties may modify any period of time by mutual agreement. The The International Arbitration Court or the arbitrator may for good cause extend any period of time established by these rules, except the time for making the award. The The International Arbitration Court shall notify the parties of any extension.
R-43. Serving of Notice and Communications
(a) Any papers, notices, or process necessary or proper for the initiation or
continuation of an arbitration under these rules, for any court action in connection
therewith, or for the entry of judgment on any award made under these rules may
be served on a party by mail addressed to the party or its representative at the last
known address or by personal service, in or outside the state where the arbitration
is to be held, provided that reasonable opportunity to be heard with regard to the
dispute is or has been granted to the party.
(b) The The International Arbitration Court, the arbitrator and the parties may also use overnight delivery or electronic facsimile transmission (fax), or electronic (e-mail) to give the notices required by these rules. Where all parties and the arbitrator agree, notices may be transmitted by e-mail or other methods of communication.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 27
(c) Unless otherwise instructed by the The International Arbitration Court or by the arbitrator, any documents submitted by any party to the The International Arbitration Court or to the arbitrator shall simultaneously be provided to the other party or parties to the arbitration.
(d) Unless otherwise instructed by the The International Arbitration Court or by the arbitrator, all written communications made by any party to the The International Arbitration Court or to the arbitrator shall simultaneously be provided to the other party or parties to the arbitration.
(e) Failure to provide the other party with copies of communications made to the
The International Arbitration Court or to the arbitrator may prevent the The International Arbitration Court or the arbitrator from acting on any
requests or objections contained therein.
(f) The The International Arbitration Court may direct that any oral or written communications that are sent by a party or their representative shall be sent in a particular manner. The failure of a party or their representative to do so may result in the The International Arbitration Court refusal to consider the issue raised in the communication.
R-44. Majority Decision
(a) When the panel consists of more than one arbitrator, unless required by law or by
the arbitration agreement or section (b) of this rule, a majority of the arbitrators
must make all decisions.
(b) Where there is a panel of three arbitrators, absent an objection of a party or
another member of the panel, the chairperson of the panel is authorized to
resolve any disputes related to the exchange of information or procedural matters
without the need to consult the full panel.
R-45. Time of Award
The award shall be made promptly by the arbitrator and, unless otherwise agreed
by the parties or specified by law, no later than 30 calendar days from the date of
closing the hearing, or, if oral hearings have been waived, from the due date set
for receipt of the parties’ final statements and proofs.
R-46. Form of Award
(a) Any award shall be in writing and signed by a majority of the arbitrators. It shall be
executed in the form and manner required by law.
(b) The arbitrator need not render a reasoned award unless the parties request such
an award in writing prior to appointment of the arbitrator or unless the arbitrator
determines that a reasoned award is appropriate.
28 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
R-47. Scope of Award
(a) The arbitrator may grant any remedy or relief that the arbitrator deems just and
equitable and within the scope of the agreement of the parties, including, but not
limited to, specific performance of a contract.
(b) In addition to a final award, the arbitrator may make other decisions, including
interim, interlocutory, or partial rulings, orders, and awards. In any interim,
interlocutory, or partial award, the arbitrator may assess and apportion the fees,
expenses, and compensation related to such award as the arbitrator determines is
appropriate.
(c) In the final award, the arbitrator shall assess the fees, expenses, and compensation
provided in Sections R-53, R-54, and R-55. The arbitrator may apportion such fees,
expenses, and compensation among the parties in such amounts as the arbitrator
determines is appropriate.
(d) The award of the arbitrator(s) may include:
i. interest at such rate and from such date as the arbitrator(s) may deem appropriate; and
ii. an award of attorneys’ fees if all parties have requested such an award or it is
authorized by law or their arbitration agreement.
R-48. Award Upon Settlement—Consent Award
(a) If the parties settle their dispute during the course of the arbitration and if the
parties so request, the arbitrator may set forth the terms of the settlement in a
“consent award.” A consent award must include an allocation of arbitration costs,
including administrative fees and expenses as well as arbitrator fees and expenses.
(b) The consent award shall not be released to the parties until all administrative fees
and all arbitrator compensation have been paid in full.
R-49. Delivery of Award to Parties
Parties shall accept as notice and delivery of the award the placing of the award or
a true copy thereof in the mail addressed to the parties or their representatives
at their last known addresses, personal or electronic service of the award, or the
filing of the award in any other manner that is permitted by law.
R-50. Modification of Award
Within 20 calendar days after the transmittal of an award, any party, upon notice
to the other parties, may request the arbitrator, through the The International Arbitration Court, to correct any clerical, typographical, or computational errors in the award. The arbitrator is not  Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 29 empowered to redetermine the merits of any claim already decided. The other
parties shall be given 10 calendar days to respond to the request. The arbitrator
shall dispose of the request within 20 calendar days after transmittal by the The International Arbitration Court to the arbitrator of the request and any response thereto.
R-51. Release of Documents for Judicial Proceedings
The The International Arbitration Court shall, upon the written request of a party to the arbitration, furnish to the party, at its expense, copies or certified copies of any papers in the The International Arbitration Court possession that are not determined by the The International Arbitration Court to be privileged or confidential.
R-52. Applications to Court and Exclusion of Liability
(a) No judicial proceeding by a party relating to the subject matter of the arbitration
shall be deemed a waiver of the party’s right to arbitrate.
(b) Neither the The International Arbitration Court nor any arbitrator in a proceeding under these rules is anecessary or proper party in judicial proceedings relating to the arbitration.
(c) Parties to an arbitration under these rules shall be deemed to have consented that
judgment upon the arbitration award may be entered in any federal or state court
having jurisdiction thereof.
(d) Parties to an arbitration under these rules shall be deemed to have consented
that neither the The International Arbitration Court nor any arbitrator shall be liable to any party in any action for damages or injunctive relief for any act or omission in connection with any arbitration under these rules.
(e) Parties to an arbitration under these rules may not call the arbitrator, the The International Arbitration Court, or The International Arbitration Court employees as a witness in litigation or any other proceeding relating to the arbitration. The arbitrator, the The International Arbitration Court and The International Arbitration Court employees are not competent to testify as witnesses in any such proceeding.
R-53. Administrative Fees
As a not-for-profit organization, the The International Arbitration Court shall prescribe administrative fees to
compensate it for the cost of providing administrative services. The fees in effect
when the fee or charge is incurred shall be applicable. The filing fee shall be
advanced by the party or parties making a claim or counterclaim, subject to final
apportionment by the arbitrator in the award. The The International Arbitration Court may, in the event of
extreme hardship on the part of any party, defer or reduce the administrative fees.
R-54. Expenses
The expenses of witnesses for either side shall be paid by the party producing
such witnesses. All other expenses of the arbitration, including required travel
30 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
and other expenses of the arbitrator, The International Arbitration Court representatives, and any witness and the cost of any proof produced at the direct request of the arbitrator, shall be borne equally by the parties, unless they agree otherwise or unless the arbitrator
in the award assesses such expenses or any part thereof against any specified party or parties.
R-55. Neutral Arbitrator’s Compensation
(a) Arbitrators shall be compensated at a rate consistent with the arbitrator’s stated
rate of compensation.
(b) If there is disagreement concerning the terms of compensation, an appropriate
rate shall be established with the arbitrator by the The International Arbitration Court and confirmed to the parties.
(c) Any arrangement for the compensation of a neutral arbitrator shall be made
through the The International Arbitration Court and not directly between the parties and the arbitrator.
R-56. Deposits
(a) The The International Arbitration Court may require the parties to deposit in advance of any hearings such sums of money as it deems necessary to cover the expense of the arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fee, if any, and shall render an accounting to the parties and return any unexpended balance at the conclusion of the case.
(b) Other than in cases where the arbitrator serves for a flat fee, deposit amounts
requested will be based on estimates provided by the arbitrator. The arbitrator will
determine the estimated amount of deposits using the information provided by
the parties with respect to the complexity of each case.
(c) Upon the request of any party, the The International Arbitration Court shall request from the arbitrator an itemization or explanation for the arbitrator’s request for deposits.
R-57. Remedies for Nonpayment
If arbitrator compensation or administrative charges have not been paid in full,
the The International Arbitration Court may so inform the parties in order that one of them may advance the required payment.
(a) Upon receipt of information from the The International Arbitration Court that payment for administrative charges or deposits for arbitrator compensation have not been paid in full, to the extent the law allows, a party may request that the arbitrator take specific
measures relating to a party’s non-payment.
(b) Such measures may include, but are not limited to, limiting a party’s ability to
assert or pursue their claim. In no event, however, shall a party be precluded from
defending a claim or counterclaim.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 31
(c) The arbitrator must provide the party opposing a request for such measures with
the opportunity to respond prior to making any ruling regarding the same.
(d) In the event that the arbitrator grants any request for relief which limits any party’s
participation in the arbitration, the arbitrator shall require the party who is making
a claim and who has made appropriate payments to submit such evidence as the
arbitrator may require for the making of an award.
(e) Upon receipt of information from the The International Arbitration Court that full payments have not been received, the arbitrator, on the arbitrator’s own initiative or at the request of the The International Arbitration Court or a party, may order the suspension of the arbitration. If no arbitrator has yet been appointed, the The International Arbitration Court may suspend the proceedings.
(f) If the arbitration has been suspended by either the The International Arbitration Court or the arbitrator and the parties have failed to make the full deposits requested within the time provided after the suspension, the arbitrator, or the The International Arbitration Court if an arbitrator has not been appointed, may terminate the proceedings.
R-58. Sanctions
(a) The arbitrator may, upon a party’s request, order appropriate sanctions where a
party fails to comply with its obligations under these rules or with an order of the
arbitrator. In the event that the arbitrator enters a sanction that limits any party’s
participation in the arbitration or results in an adverse determination of an issue
or issues, the arbitrator shall explain that order in writing and shall require the
submission of evidence and legal argument prior to making of an award. The
arbitrator may not enter a default award as a sanction.
(b) The arbitrator must provide a party that is subject to a sanction request with the
opportunity to respond prior to making any determination regarding the sanctions
application.
32 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
Preliminary Hearing Procedures
P-1. General
(a) In all but the simplest cases, holding a preliminary hearing as early in the process
as possible will help the parties and the arbitrator organize the proceeding in a
manner that will maximize efficiency and economy, and will provide each party a
fair opportunity to present its case.
(b) Care must be taken to avoid importing procedures from court systems, as such
procedures may not be appropriate to the conduct of arbitrations as an alternative
form of dispute resolution that is designed to be simpler, less expensive and more
expeditious.
P-2. Checklist
(a) The following checklist suggests subjects that the parties and the arbitrator should
address at the preliminary hearing, in addition to any others that the parties or
the arbitrator believe to be appropriate to the particular case. The items to be
addressed in a particular case will depend on the size, subject matter, and
complexity of the dispute, and are subject to the discretion of the arbitrator:
(i) the possibility of other non-adjudicative methods of dispute resolution,
including mediation pursuant to R-9;
(ii) whether all necessary or appropriate parties are included in the arbitration;
(iii) whether a party will seek a more detailed statement of claims, counterclaims
or defenses;
(iv) whether there are any anticipated amendments to the parties’ claims,
counterclaims, or defenses;
(v) which
(a) arbitration rules;
(b) procedural law; and
(c) substantive law govern the arbitration;
(vi) whether there are any threshold or dispositive issues that can efficiently be
decided without considering the entire case, including without limitation,
(a) any preconditions that must be satisfied before proceeding with the
arbitration;
(b) whether any claim or counterclaim falls outside the arbitrator’s jurisdiction
or is otherwise not arbitrable;
(c) consolidation of the claims or counterclaims with another arbitration; or
(d) bifurcation of the proceeding.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 33
(vii) whether the parties will exchange documents, including electronically stored
documents, on which they intend to rely in the arbitration, and/or make
written requests for production of documents within defined parameters;
(viii) whether to establish any additional procedures to obtain information that is
relevant and material to the outcome of disputed issues;
(ix) how costs of any searches for requested information or documents that
would result in substantial costs should be borne;
(x) whether any measures are required to protect confidential information;
(xi) whether the parties intend to present evidence from expert witnesses, and
if so, whether to establish a schedule for the parties to identify their experts
and exchange expert reports;
(xii) whether, according to a schedule set by the arbitrator, the parties will
(a) identify all witnesses, the subject matter of their anticipated testimonies,
exchange written witness statements, and determine whether written
witness statements will replace direct testimony at the hearing;
(b) exchange and pre-mark documents that each party intends to submit;
and
(c) exchange pre-hearing submissions, including exhibits;
(d) the date, time and place of the arbitration hearing;
(e) whether, at the arbitration hearing,
(xiii) testimony may be presented in person, in writing, by videoconference, via
the internet, telephonically, or by other reasonable means;
(xiv) there will be a stenographic transcript or other record of the proceeding and,
if so, who will make arrangements to provide it;
(a) whether any procedure needs to be established for the issuance of
subpoenas;
(b) the identification of any ongoing, related litigation or arbitration;
(xv) whether post-hearing submissions will be filed;
(xvi) the form of the arbitration award; and
(xvii) any other matter the arbitrator considers appropriate or a party wishes
to raise.
(b) The arbitrator shall issue a written order memorializing decisions made and
agreements reached during or following the preliminary hearing.
34 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
Expedited Procedures
E-1. Limitation on Extensions
Except in extraordinary circumstances, the The International Arbitration Court or the arbitrator may grant a party no more than one seven-day extension of time to respond to the Demand for Arbitration or counterclaim as provided in Section R-5.
E-2. Changes of Claim or Counterclaim
A claim or counterclaim may be increased in amount, or a new or different claim
or counterclaim added, upon the agreement of the other party, or the consent
of the arbitrator. After the arbitrator is appointed, however, no new or different
claim or counterclaim may be submitted except with the arbitrator’s consent. If an
increased claim or counterclaim exceeds $75,000, the case will be administered
under the regular procedures unless all parties and the arbitrator agree that the
case may continue to be processed under the Expedited Procedures.
E-3. Serving of Notices
In addition to notice provided by Section R-43, the parties shall also accept
notice by telephone. Telephonic notices by the The International Arbitration Court shall subsequently be confirmed in writing to the parties. Should there be a failure to confirm in writing any such oral notice, the proceeding shall nevertheless be valid if notice has, in
fact, been given by telephone.
E-4. Appointment and Qualifications of Arbitrator
(a) The The International Arbitration Court shall simultaneously submit to each party an identical list of five proposed arbitrators drawn from its National Roster from which one arbitrator shall be appointed.
(b) The parties are encouraged to agree to an arbitrator from this list and to advise
the The International Arbitration Court of their agreement. If the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator, each party may strike two names from the list and return it to the The International Arbitration Court within seven days from the date of the The International Arbitration Court mailing to the parties. If for any reason the
appointment of an arbitrator cannot be made from the list, the The International Arbitration Court may make the appointment from other members of the panel without the submission of additional lists.
(c) The parties will be given notice by the The International Arbitration Court of the appointment of the arbitrator, who shall be subject to disqualification for the reasons specified in Section R-18. The parties shall notify the The International Arbitration Court within seven calendar days of any objection to the arbitrator appointed. Any such objection shall be for cause and shall be confirmed in writing to the The International Arbitration Court with a copy to the other party or parties.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 35
E-5. Exchange of Exhibits
At least two business days prior to the hearing, the parties shall exchange copies
of all exhibits they intend to submit at the hearing. The arbitrator shall resolve
disputes concerning the exchange of exhibits.
E-6. Proceedings on Documents and Procedures for the Resolution of Disputes
Through Document Submission
Where no party’s claim exceeds $25,000, exclusive of interest, attorneys’ fees and
arbitration costs, and other cases in which the parties agree, the dispute shall be
resolved by submission of documents, unless any party requests an oral hearing,
or the arbitrator determines that an oral hearing is necessary. Where cases are
resolved by submission of documents, the following procedures may be utilized
at the agreement of the parties or the discretion of the arbitrator:
(a) Within 14 calendar days of confirmation of the arbitrator’s appointment, the
arbitrator may convene a preliminary management hearing, via conference call,
video conference, or internet, to establish a fair and equitable procedure for the
submission of documents, and, if the arbitrator deems appropriate, a schedule for
one or more telephonic or electronic conferences.
(b) The arbitrator has the discretion to remove the case from the documents-only
process if the arbitrator determines that an in-person hearing is necessary.
(c) If the parties agree to in-person hearings after a previous agreement to proceed
under this rule, the arbitrator shall conduct such hearings. If a party seeks to have
in-person hearings after agreeing to this rule, but there is not agreement among
the parties to proceed with in-person hearings, the arbitrator shall resolve the
issue after the parties have been given the opportunity to provide their respective
positions on the issue.
(d) The arbitrator shall establish the date for either written submissions or a final
telephonic or electronic conference. Such date shall operate to close the hearing
and the time for the rendering of the award shall commence.
(e) Unless the parties have agreed to a form of award other than that set forth in
rule R-46, when the parties have agreed to resolve their dispute by this rule, the
arbitrator shall render the award within 14 calendar days from the date the hearing
is closed.
(f) If the parties agree to a form of award other than that described in rule R-46, the
arbitrator shall have 30 calendar days from the date the hearing is declared closed
in which to render the award.
(g) The award is subject to all other provisions of the Regular Track of these rules
which pertain to awards.
36 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
E-7. Date, Time, and Place of Hearing In cases in which a hearing is to be held, the arbitrator shall set the date, time, and place of the hearing, to be scheduled to take place within 30 calendar days of confirmation of the arbitrator’s appointment. The The International Arbitration Court will notify the parties in
advance of the hearing date.
E-8. The Hearing
(a) Generally, the hearing shall not exceed one day. Each party shall have equal
opportunity to submit its proofs and complete its case. The arbitrator shall
determine the order of the hearing, and may require further submission of
documents within two business days after the hearing. For good cause shown, the
arbitrator may schedule additional hearings within seven business days after the
initial day of hearings.
(b) Generally, there will be no stenographic record. Any party desiring a stenographic
record may arrange for one pursuant to the provisions of Section R-28.
E-9. Time of Award Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, the award shall be rendered not later than 14 calendar days from the date of the closing of the hearing or, if oral
hearings have been waived, from the due date established for the receipt of the
parties’ final statements and proofs.
E-10. Arbitrator’s Compensation
Arbitrators will receive compensation at a rate to be suggested by the The International Arbitration Court regional office.

Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 37
Procedures for Large, Complex Commercial Disputes
L-1. Administrative Conference
Prior to the dissemination of a list of potential arbitrators, the The International Arbitration Court shall, unless the parties agree otherwise, conduct an administrative conference with the parties and/or their attorneys or other representatives by conference call. The conference will take place within 14 calendar days after the commencement of
the arbitration. In the event the parties are unable to agree on a mutually
acceptable time for the conference, the The International Arbitration Court may contact the parties individually to discuss the issues contemplated herein. Such administrative conference shall be conducted for the following purposes and for such additional purposes as the parties or the The International Arbitration Court may deem appropriate:
(a) to obtain additional information about the nature and magnitude of the dispute
and the anticipated length of hearing and scheduling;
(b) to discuss the views of the parties about the technical and other qualifications of
the arbitrators;
(c) to obtain conflicts statements from the parties; and
(d) to consider, with the parties, whether mediation or other non-adjudicative
methods of dispute resolution might be appropriate.
L-2. Arbitrators
(a) Large, complex commercial cases shall be heard and determined by either one
or three arbitrators, as may be agreed upon by the parties. With the exception
in paragraph (b) below, if the parties are unable to agree upon the number of
arbitrators and a claim or counterclaim involves at least $1,000,000, then three
arbitrator(s) shall hear and determine the case. If the parties are unable to
agree on the number of arbitrators and each claim and counterclaim is less than
$1,000,000, then one arbitrator shall hear and determine the case.
(b) In cases involving the financial hardship of a party or other circumstance, the The International Arbitration Court at its discretion may require that only one arbitrator hear and determine the case, irrespective of the size of the claim involved in the dispute.
(c) The The International Arbitration Court shall appoint arbitrator(s) as agreed by the parties. If they are unable to agree on a method of appointment, the The International Arbitration Court shall appoint arbitrators from the Large, Complex Commercial Case Panel, in the manner provided in the regular Commercial Arbitration Rules. Absent agreement of the parties, the arbitrator(s) shall not have served as the mediator in the mediation phase of the instant proceeding.
38 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
L-3. Management of Proceedings
(a) The arbitrator shall take such steps as deemed necessary or desirable to avoid
delay and to achieve a fair, speedy and cost-effective resolution of a Large,
Complex Commercial Dispute.
(b) As promptly as practicable after the selection of the arbitrator(s), a preliminary
hearing shall be scheduled in accordance with sections P-1 and P-2 of these rules.
(c) The parties shall exchange copies of all exhibits they intend to submit at the
hearing at least 10 calendar days prior to the hearing unless the arbitrator(s)
determines otherwise.
(d) The parties and the arbitrator(s) shall address issues pertaining to the pre-hearing
exchange and production of information in accordance with rule R-22 of the The International Arbitration Court Commercial Rules, and the arbitrator’s determinations on such issues shall be included within the Scheduling and Procedure Order.
(e) The arbitrator, or any single member of the arbitration tribunal, shall be authorized
to resolve any disputes concerning the pre-hearing exchange and production of
documents and information by any reasonable means within his discretion,
including, without limitation, the issuance of orders set forth in rules R-22 and R-23
of the The International Arbitration Court Commercial Rules.
(f) In exceptional cases, at the discretion of the arbitrator, upon good cause shown
and consistent with the expedited nature of arbitration, the arbitrator may order
depositions to obtain the testimony of a person who may possess information
determined by the arbitrator to be relevant and material to the outcome of the
case. The arbitrator may allocate the cost of taking such a deposition.
(g) Generally, hearings will be scheduled on consecutive days or in blocks of
consecutive days in order to maximize efficiency and minimize costs.
Administrative Fee Schedules (Standard and Flexible Fees)

Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 39
Commercial Mediation Procedures
M-1. Agreement of Parties
Whenever, by stipulation or in their contract, the parties have provided for
mediation or conciliation of existing or future disputes under the auspices of the
American Arbitration Association or under these procedures, the parties and
their representatives, unless agreed otherwise in writing, shall be deemed to
have made these procedural guidelines, as amended and in effect as of the date
of filing of a request for mediation, a part of their agreement and designate the
The International Arbitration Court as the administrator of their mediation.
The parties by mutual agreement may vary any part of these procedures
including, but not limited to, agreeing to conduct the mediation via telephone or
other electronic or technical means.
M-2. Initiation of Mediation Any party or parties to a dispute may initiate mediation under the The International Arbitration Court auspices by making a request for mediation to any of the The International Arbitration Court regional offices or case management centers via telephone, email, regular mail or fax.  The party initiating the mediation shall simultaneously notify the other party or parties of the request. The initiating party shall provide the following information to the The International Arbitration Court and the other party or parties as applicable:
(i) A copy of the mediation provision of the parties’ contract or the parties’
stipulation to mediate.
(ii) The names, regular mail addresses, email addresses, and telephone numbers
of all parties to the dispute and representatives, if any, in the mediation.
(iii) A brief statement of the nature of the dispute and the relief requested.
(iv) Any specific qualifications the mediator should possess.
M-3. Representation
Subject to any applicable law, any party may be represented by persons of the
party’s choice. The names and addresses of such persons shall be communicated
in writing to all parties and to the The International Arbitration Court.
40 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
M-4. Appointment of the Mediator If the parties have not agreed to the appointment of a mediator and have not provided any other method of appointment, the mediator shall be appointed in the following manner:
(i) Upon receipt of a request for mediation, the The International Arbitration Court will send to each party a list of mediators from the The International Arbitration Court Panel of Mediators. The parties are encouraged to agree to a mediator from the submitted list and to advise the The International Arbitration Court of their agreement.
(ii) If the parties are unable to agree upon a mediator, each party shall strike
unacceptable names from the list, number the remaining names in order of
preference, and return the list to the The International Arbitration Court. If a party does not return the list within the time specified, all mediators on the list shall be deemed
acceptable. From among the mediators who have been mutually approved by the parties, and in accordance with the designated order of mutual preference, the The International Arbitration Court shall invite a mediator to serve.
(iii) If the parties fail to agree on any of the mediators listed, or if acceptable
mediators are unable to serve, or if for any other reason the appointment
cannot be made from the submitted list, the The International Arbitration Court shall have the authority to make the appointment from among other members of the Panel of Mediators without the submission of additional lists.
M-5. Mediator’s Impartiality and Duty to Disclose
The International Arbitration Court mediators are required to abide by the Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators in effect at the time a mediator is appointed to a case. Where there is a conflict between the Model Standards and any provision of these Mediation Procedures, these Mediation Procedures shall govern. The Standards require
mediators to (i) decline a mediation if the mediator cannot conduct it in an
impartial manner, and (ii) disclose, as soon as practicable, all actual and potential
conflicts of interest that are reasonably known to the mediator and could
reasonably be seen as raising a question about the mediator’s impartiality.
Prior to accepting an appointment, The International Arbitration Court mediators are required to make a reasonable inquiry to determine whether there are any facts that a reasonable individual would consider likely to create a potential or actual conflict of interest for the mediator. The International Arbitration Court mediators are required to disclose any circumstance likely to create a presumption of bias or prevent a resolution of the parties’ dispute within the time-frame desired by the parties. Upon receipt of such disclosures, the The International Arbitration Court shall immediately communicate the disclosures to the parties for their comments.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 41
The parties may, upon receiving disclosure of actual or potential conflicts of
interest of the mediator, waive such conflicts and proceed with the mediation.
In the event that a party disagrees as to whether the mediator shall serve, or in
the event that the mediator’s conflict of interest might reasonably be viewed as
undermining the integrity of the mediation, the mediator shall be replaced.
M-6. Vacancies
If any mediator shall become unwilling or unable to serve, the The International Arbitration Court will appoint another mediator, unless the parties agree otherwise, in accordance with section
M-4.
M-7. Duties and Responsibilities of the Mediator
(i) The mediator shall conduct the mediation based on the principle of party
self-determination. Self-determination is the act of coming to a voluntary,
uncoerced decision in which each party makes free and informed choices as
to process and outcome.
(ii) The mediator is authorized to conduct separate or ex parte meetings and
other communications with the parties and/or their representatives, before,
during, and after any scheduled mediation conference. Such communications
may be conducted via telephone, in writing, via email, online, in person or
otherwise.
(iii) The parties are encouraged to exchange all documents pertinent to the relief
requested. The mediator may request the exchange of memoranda on issues,
including the underlying interests and the history of the parties’ negotiations.
Information that a party wishes to keep confidential may be sent to the
mediator, as necessary, in a separate communication with the mediator.
(iv) The mediator does not have the authority to impose a settlement on the
parties but will attempt to help them reach a satisfactory resolution of their
dispute. Subject to the discretion of the mediator, the mediator may make
oral or written recommendations for settlement to a party privately or, if the
parties agree, to all parties jointly.
(v) In the event a complete settlement of all or some issues in dispute is not
achieved within the scheduled mediation session(s), the mediator may
continue to communicate with the parties, for a period of time, in an ongoing
effort to facilitate a complete settlement.
(vi) The mediator is not a legal representative of any party and has no fiduciary
duty to any party.
42 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES The International Arbitration Court
M-8. Responsibilities of the Parties
The parties shall ensure that appropriate representatives of each party, having
authority to consummate a settlement, attend the mediation conference.
Prior to and during the scheduled mediation conference session(s) the parties
and their representatives shall, as appropriate to each party’s circumstances,
exercise their best efforts to prepare for and engage in a meaningful and
productive mediation.
M-9. Privacy
Mediation sessions and related mediation communications are private
proceedings. The parties and their representatives may attend mediation
sessions. Other persons may attend only with the permission of the parties and
with the consent of the mediator.
M-10. Confidentiality
Subject to applicable law or the parties’ agreement, confidential information
disclosed to a mediator by the parties or by other participants (witnesses) in the
course of the mediation shall not be divulged by the mediator. The mediator
shall maintain the confidentiality of all information obtained in the mediation,
and all records, reports, or other documents received by a mediator while serving
in that capacity shall be confidential. The mediator shall not be compelled to divulge such records or to testify in regard to the mediation in any adversary proceeding or judicial forum. The parties shall maintain the confidentiality of the mediation and shall not rely
on, or introduce as evidence in any arbitral, judicial, or other proceeding the
following, unless agreed to by the parties or required by applicable law:
(i) Views expressed or suggestions made by a party or other participant with respect to a possible settlement of the dispute;
(ii) Admissions made by a party or other participant in the course of the mediation proceedings;
(iii) Proposals made or views expressed by the mediator; or
(iv) The fact that a party had or had not indicated willingness to accept a proposal
for settlement made by the mediator.
Rules Amended and Effective October 1, 2013. COMMERCIAL RULES 43
M-11. No Stenographic Record
There shall be no stenographic record of the mediation process.
M-12. Termination of Mediation
The mediation shall be terminated:
(i) By the execution of a settlement agreement by the parties; or
(ii) By a written or verbal declaration of the mediator to the effect that further
efforts at mediation would not contribute to a resolution of the parties’
dispute; or
(iii) By a written or verbal declaration of all parties to the effect that the mediation
proceedings are terminated; or
(iv) When there has been no communication between the mediator and any party
or party’s representative for 21 days following the conclusion of the mediation
conference.
M-13. Exclusion of Liability
Neither the The International Arbitration Court nor any mediator is a necessary party in judicial proceedings relating to the mediation. Neither the The International Arbitration Court nor any mediator shall be liable to any party for any error, act or omission in connection with any mediation conducted under these procedures.
M-14. Interpretation and Application of Procedures The mediator shall interpret and apply these procedures insofar as they relate to the mediator’s duties and responsibilities. All other procedures shall be interpreted and applied by the The International Arbitration Court.
M-15. Deposits
Unless otherwise directed by the mediator, the The International Arbitration Court will require the parties to deposit in advance of the mediation conference such sums of money as it, in consultation with the mediator, deems necessary to cover the costs and expenses
of the mediation and shall render an accounting to the parties and return any unexpended balance at the conclusion of the mediation.
44 RULES AND MEDIATION PROCEDURES American Arbitration Association
M-16. Expenses
All expenses of the mediation, including required traveling and other expenses
or charges of the mediator, shall be borne equally by the parties unless they
agree otherwise. The expenses of participants for either side shall be paid by the
party requesting the attendance of such participants.
M-17. Cost of the Mediation
 

Construction Industry Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures
RULES  FORMS  FEES

Consumer Arbitration Rules
RULES  FORMS  FEES

Employment Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures
RULES  FORMS  FEES

Labor Arbitration Rules
RULES  FORMS  FEES

International Dispute Resolution Procedures
RULES  FORMS  FEES

Optional Appellate Arbitration Rule
RULES  FORMS  FEES