Arbitration hearings can be intimidating, especially for young professionals. To ensure success, it is important to prepare in advance. This article provides 10 tips to help young associates prepare for an arbitration hearing, as well as a bonus section for those acting as court clerks. Before the hearing, it is essential to determine what evidence and witnesses are necessary to establish your claim.
Keep the case simple and avoid unnecessary, irrelevant, or cumulative testimony and evidence. The 10 best tips for young associates include:
- Understand the process. Learn the rules of the arbitration process and familiarize yourself with the procedures.
- Research. Research the facts of the case and the applicable law.
- Organize.
Organize your documents and evidence in a logical manner.
- Prepare witnesses. Prepare witnesses by providing them with relevant documents and information.
- Practice. Practice presenting your case in front of a mock audience.
- Anticipate. Anticipate questions from the arbitrator and opposing counsel.
- Be prepared.
Have all necessary documents and evidence ready for presentation.
- Be professional. Dress appropriately and maintain a professional demeanor throughout the hearing.
- Listen carefully. Listen carefully to all questions and answers during the hearing.
- Stay focused. Stay focused on the task at hand and avoid distractions.
Virtual hearings are becoming increasingly common, so it is important to be familiar with videoconference platforms. Additionally, it is important to minimize distractions by resolving any private tasks in advance and preparing a list of what to wear each day of the hearing. Finally, if you believe that you are not being given due procedural or substantive safeguards during an arbitration procedure, you may want to challenge it as it may not be enforceable.
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