Originally from: Advocacy in International Commercial Arbitration - ASA Special Series No. 36

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It is often said that no arbitration is any better than the arbitrator or arbitrators who are in charge.  There is much truth to this proposition.  It is, however, incomplete.  For example, the parties also have a significant role to play in the process, and have important responsibilities of their own in this respect.  That said, it is difficult to overestimate the role of counsel in determining the architecture of arbitral proceedings, in ensuring that the proceedings unfold efficiently and fairly and in acting as an essential bridge between their clients and the arbitral tribunal.  Just as much as the arbitrators, counsel deserve credit for efficient proceedings – and blame for waste of time and money.  This places significant responsibilities on counsel, not only for each individual case, but also for the long-term legitimacy of the arbitral process.