Qualities that can make an arbitrator ineffective or less desirable include:
- Bias and Lack of Neutrality: Showing favoritism towards one party or having preconceived notions that affect fair judgment.
- Lack of Knowledge or Expertise: Insufficient understanding of the subject matter or legal principles involved in the dispute, leading to inaccurate decisions.
- Poor Communication Skills: Inability to articulate decisions clearly or to ensure that all parties understand the proceedings and their implications.
- Inflexibility: Refusal to consider alternative viewpoints or solutions, which can hinder the resolution process.
- Ethical Issues: Engaging in unethical behavior, such as disclosing confidential information or accepting improper influence.
- Impatience or Hostility: Displaying impatience with the parties or their representatives, or showing hostility that disrupts the arbitration process.
- Inefficiency: Failing to manage time effectively, causing unnecessary delays or confusion during proceedings.
- Lack of Empathy: Insensitivity to the concerns or emotions of the parties involved, which can undermine trust and cooperation.
- Indecisiveness: Difficulty in making timely decisions or providing clear rationale for decisions, which can prolong the arbitration process.
- Poor Organizational Skills: Being disorganized or unprepared, leading to confusion or inefficiency in managing the arbitration process.
These qualities can undermine the credibility and effectiveness of an arbitrator, potentially resulting in dissatisfaction with the arbitration outcome or even challenges to the validity of the arbitration process.