At a glance

A workable arbitration clause identifies the institution or ad hoc method, seat, scope, language, number of arbitrators and governing law without creating internal conflicts.

01 /

Institution and rules

Use the institution's correct name and identify its rules. For ad hoc arbitration, specify rules such as UNCITRAL, an appointing authority and any administrative support.

02 /

Why the seat matters

The seat is the legal home of the arbitration and determines the supervisory court and set-aside framework; it need not be the physical hearing venue. Language and tribunal size should fit the value and technical complexity.

03 /

Scope and governing laws

State whether the clause covers selected contractual claims or every dispute connected with the relationship. The law governing the main contract, the arbitration agreement and the procedure may differ.

04 /

Avoid pathological clauses

Competing exclusive-court and arbitration clauses, a misnamed institution or an uncertain negotiation stage can trigger jurisdiction disputes. Multi-contract transactions, group companies and joinder should be considered at drafting stage.

Relevant legislation and official sources

General legal information. Applicable law, jurisdiction, deadlines and remedies depend on the facts and current official texts; no outcome is guaranteed.

Content is for general information and is not personal legal advice. Contact alone does not establish a lawyer-client relationship.

Related practice areasInternational Arbitration and Cross-Border Disputes