JAMS, the private provider of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services worldwide, has officially opened JAMS international arbitration centres in both New York and Los Angeles. The Centres will increase access to international arbitration facilities for attorneys and their clients worldwide.

Premiere venue

“International arbitration is playing an increasingly important role as the world’s legal and business communities become more global and disputes become more complex. Access to premiere venues is more important than ever, as attorneys travel from around the world to represent their clients,” said Chris Poole, JAMS president and CEO. “We are excited to officially open the Centres and to support practitioners from around the world in conducting the most effective proceedings.” Mr Poole said he was looking forward to “continued expansion in the coming years.” JAMS says attorneys and clients benefit from its cost- and time-efficient approach to international arbitration. The facilities feature upgraded amenities to provide efficient, comfortable international arbitration proceedings, ranging from large LCD monitors and high-quality videoconferencing for remote participants and witness cross-examination through to the arbitrator lounges which are especially useful in tripartite proceedings.

Senate bill

Among the first in California, the JAMS Los Angeles International Arbitration Center is located in downtown Los Angeles. This year Senate Bill No. 766 became law, allowing out-of-state and non-US lawyers to participate in international arbitrations. The Centre aims to support California in becoming a new and appealing choice for attorneys to seat their international arbitrations. Founded in 1979, JAMS now has nearly 400 panelists and 28 locations operating in Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Latin America & the Caribbean and North America.