2025 Umpire Masterclass

The Umpire Masterclass Workshop is a full-day session This engaging and interactive class is designed specifically for professionals serving as Umpires in insurance and reinsurance arbitration. Participants will explore the essential duties, ethical considerations, and procedural responsibilities unique to the role, with real-world examples and case-based discussions. The program will cover best practices for managing hearings, fostering fairness, handling evidentiary issues, and delivering clear, well-reasoned decisions. Whether you are new to umpiring or seeking to sharpen your skills, this session will provide the tools and confidence to serve effectively and uphold the integrity of the arbitration process.

Agenda

FOOD for THOUGHT on UMPIRE LEADERSHIP – BEST PRACTICES, KNOWLEDGE NUGGETS, LESSONS LEARNED

PRE-PROCESS CONSIDERATIONS

Traits of a successful umpire candidate
Assessing potential conflicts
Disclosure requirements
Panel dynamics
Setting the tone

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING TOPICS

Scheduling goals
Contract provision or agreement giving panel authority
Confidentiality and Hold Harmless issues
Confirming the Dispute(s)
Use of experts
Conduct of counsel and parties

MANAGING A FAIR PROCEEDING

Discovery Disputes, Pre-hearing motions
Evidentiary issues
Case Law, Custom and Practice, Honorable Engagement
Panel informational needs, documentary record
Efficiency standards
Asking questions

IN CONCLUSION

Post hearing activity
Deliberations
Crafting an Award
Maintaining Jurisdiction
Functus Officio, Post Award contact

Co-Chairs and Faculty:

Moderators: Judy Harnadek (Resolute Management, Inc.), William O’Neill (Troutman Pepper), Robert Whitney (MGC Law)

Panelists: Paul Dassenko, Ann Field, Larry Greengrass, Mark Gurevitz, Sylvia Kaminsky

This program is designed for newer or aspiring arbitrators; this training is also a great way for veteran arbitrators to refresh their knowledge and skills. It is required for anyone who intends to apply for arbitrator certification under Options B or C of the Arbitration Experience / Knowledge Component.

ARIAS•U.S. Arbitrator Certification:
This workshop counts towards the ARIAS•U.S. Certification requirements. If you are interested in initial certification, you may need to attend one or two seminars under Option C of the ARIAS•U.S. Certification application. Click here for more information.

CLE Credit:
ARIAS•U.S. is an accredited provider of New York State and Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education. NY/PA CLE credits are available to those who attend this seminar; all credits are for areas of professional practice. CLE Credits for IL are pending.