Recorded Skils & CLE Training Programs

Arbitration Advocacy Skills Training Program - Spring 2022

 
This five-session skills training program for counsel in arbitration studied the arbitration process from start to finish. Each of the five sessions covered one essential stage of the arbitration process and examined how this era of videoconferencing and hybrid proceedings has created new obstacles and opportunities. Each session had a different group of panelists, all experts in dispute resolution. The sessions were intended for both new and seasoned practitioners, as the topics covered included best practices, expert insights, and tools to thrive in the virtual/hybrid space.

This program was generously sponsored by Philip Morris International.

Session 1: “Selecting the Appropriate Neutral for Your Disputes”
Drawing on a series of case studies, the panel helped to lead the audience in a discussion of potential arbitrator candidates for a mock dispute. In reviewing potential candidates, the panel and audience reviewed the process of neutral selection, potential pitfalls and traps, as well as considerations in increasing the diversity of neutrals selected to serve.

Moderated by Peter Halprin, Pasich LLP.

Panel: Laura Cundari, Blakes; Alison Pearsall, Veolia; Mia Levi, CPR Dispute Resolution.

Session 2: “How to Prepare for Your Procedural Hearing”
In this session, three speakers – in-house counsel, outside counsel, and an arbitrator – provided practical advice on how to prepare for a procedural hearing. Some of the issues and perspectives covered included expectations about the procedural hearing, how other participants should behave, Do’s and Don’ts, tools to assist with the procedural hearing, and best practices from each perspective. The speakers also addressed how preliminary hearings have changed since the pandemic started and other changes brought on by the transition to a more virtual / hybrid state of things.

Moderated by Patrycja Kolwas, COFCO International.

Panel: David Roney, Sidley Austin; Stephanie Cohen, Cohen Arbitration; Tom Sikora, ExxonMobil Corporation.

Session 3: “When to Consider Mediation”
Mediation is an essential tool in your dispute resolution toolkit, and it can be used at any stage of the resolution process. This panel of experienced practitioners who are also mediators discussed when to consider mediation and how parties can identify opportunities for settlement. The panel also discussed the practicalities of hosting mediations and settlement discussions via a remote platform.

Moderated by Rachel Gupta, Gupta Dispute Resolutions.

Panel Theo Cheng, ADR Office of Theo Cheng; Erin Gleason Alvarez, Gleason Alvarez ADR; William (Bill) Crosby, SVP, Associate General Counsel, Managing Attorney, and LATAM Regional Coordinator Interpublic Group.

Session 4: “Presenting Your Case in a Virtual/Hybrid Hearing”
This panel examined the practical aspects of virtual hearings, examining how to accomplish your goals in a virtual and hybrid setting. Panelists discussed how to present your case at a virtual hearing, including examination of witnesses. Attendees received practical tips, tools, and insights into the virtual processes.

Moderated by Gretta Walters, Chaffetz Lindsey.

Panel Fritha Wheeler-Ozanne, Fluor Corporation; Grant Hanessian, Hanessian ADR; Cedric Soule, King & Spalding.

Session 5: “What Arbitrators Look for When Deciding the Case”

The final panel of the series brought together a diverse slate of arbitrators together to discuss the final stage of the arbitration process: the award. Discussion centered around what arbitrators look for when deciding the outcome of the case and writing the award, including tips for effective brief writing.

Moderated by Mia Levi, CPR Dispute Resolution.

Panel: Judge Timothy K. Lewis, Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis LLP; Dana MacGrath, MacGrath Arbitration; Cecilia Flores Rueda, Flores Rueda Abogados.