Arbitrator selection represents one of the most critical acts undertaken by any party to a dispute. After all, the arbitrator is empowered to render an unassailable decision that is rarely subject to appellate review.
In recognition of this authority, both the Revised Uniform Arbitration Act (RUAA) and alternative dispute resolution organizations generally require the disclosure of potential conflicts of interest; the RUAA further notes that a party may object to the appointment of an arbitrator based upon such disclosure, and the conflict may be a ground for vacating an award.
