Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-2014
Abstract
We study the role of arbitrator background in securities arbitration. We find that several aspects of arbitrator background are correlated with arbitration outcomes. Specifically, industry experience, prior experience as a regulator, and status as a professional or retired arbitrator are correlated with statistically significant differences in arbitration awards. The impact of these characteristics is affected by whether the arbitrator in question serves as the panel chair and by whether the parties to the arbitration are represented by counsel. Our findings offer some preliminary insights into the debate over possible arbitrator bias. On the one hand, they suggest that the party selection process is relatively effective in screening for bias. The Financial Industry Regulatory Association has imposed increasingly more rigorous qualification requirements, specifically with respect to the independence of public arbitrators, but our study suggests that these requirements are unlikely to affect outcomes in most cases. On the other hand, party selection appears to be most effective when the parties are represented by counsel. Our findings highlight the importance of legal representation in the arbitration process.
Recommended Citation
Pritchard, Adam C. "The Influence of Arbitrator Background and Representation on Arbitration Outcomes." S. J. Choi and J. E. Fisch, co-authors. Va. L. & Bus. Rev. 9, no. 1 (2014): 43-90.