The National Academy of Arbitrators notified me this weekend that their Board of Governors has accepted my application to the National Academy of Arbitrators. Due to recent travel restrictions, the NAA Conference in Denver was canceled but the board met remotely to consider several items, including my application and those of other candidates. I am honored to be included in the National Academy of Arbitrators.
National Academy of Arbitrators
Videoconference Hearings Available
Now that the National Academy of Arbitrators has created Procedures for conducting hearings via videoconference, I encourage parties consider holding hearings by video conference. Zoom and other platforms allow for breakout rooms (to caucus), privacy, and efficient resolution of your grievances.
I know that this is a novel approach but videoconference hearings are less expensive and more expeditious than in-person hearings. They reduce the hassle to witnesses, who can appear for just their testimony as opposed to waiting at the hearing location. Most court reporting services offer hosting services as well and reporters are trained to participate in video conferences. Please let me know if you are interested in trying this approach. I think these extraordinary times call for novel measures, and I think that videoconference hearings could be a valuable tool for alternative dispute resolution even after the pandemic is resolved.