Conducting the arbitration

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STOP PRESS: This Overview has been updated in light of the new Arbitration Act 2025 and contains reference to amended provisions in the Arbitration Act 1996. For further information on when the new act comes into force see Practice Note: When will the Arbitration Act 2025 come into force? 

A quick guide to arbitration procedure

There is no set procedure for arbitration akin to that set out in the CPR for litigation. That said, many arbitrations follow a regular format allowing time for formal commencement of the arbitration, appointment of tribunal, preliminary hearing/procedural meetings, exchange of submissions, provision of written and oral evidence, substantive hearing, close of proceedings and provision of an award.

For more information, see Practice Note: A quick guide to the arbitration process.

Arbitration procedure under the AA 1996 in England and Wales

Arbitration under the Arbitration Act 1996 (AA 1996), rather than in accordance with the rules of an arbitral institution or organisation, is an ad-hoc procedure not administered by an institution or body. It is for the tribunal (once appointed) to control

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