Guide to the CIArb

Who are the CIArb

The CIArb stands for the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. The CIArb is a worldwide recognised organisation with members across the globe. If you gain membership, you can earn postnominal letters such as ACIArb or MCIArb. The CIArb provides specialist courses and training in arbitration procedures and new and innovative methods. The CIArb is a non-profit organisation which attracts professionals from around the world to network and share knowledge within the arbitration industry. They form a community of professionals that seek development for the industry and individuals alike through education and leading examples.

Arbitrations in Construction

The purpose of arbitrators within the construction industry are to resolve and arbitrate disputes and claims that have arisen due to issues and problems. Arbitration is a legally binding process that doesn’t require to take a case to court. It is usually much quicker and less financially draining on both parties. It requires a qualified arbitrator to assess the facts of the situation in order to make an informed decision. The arbitration process is very important within construction as it helps to raise awareness of risks and how they can be mitigated in the future.

What is ADR?

ADR is Alternative Dispute Resolution enforced by the CIArb as the practice used to provide alternative solutions to issues otherwise taken to court. ADR involves a range of integrated methods in order to resolve conflicts, such as mediation and adjudication. These methods are echoed throughout the CIArb and they offer training courses if you feel you need a top-up.  Professionals involved in the CIArb help to develop new and existing practices within ADR to ensure the arbitration industry is functional and efficient in its practices.

CIArb Memberships

There are officially six types of membership within the CIArb, five of which you can work your way through the ranks of. You can begin your CIArb journey as either a Student member or an Associate member. The student membership will give you exclusive access to online courses and networking opportunities. You’ll be able to apply for a student membership if you’re studying at college or university. The Associate member (ACIArb) is offered to those who have completed a CIArb accredited course, such as the College of Contract Management’s Claims Preparation and Dispute Management course which is offered online or face to face. 

Following on from this, you have three options: Member, Chartered Arbitrator or Fellow. Becoming a member is an achievement many arbitrators aim towards – this accolade demonstrates competence and dedicated knowledge within the industry. Chartered Arbitrator and Fellow are also highly regarded awards. CIArb Fellow and CIArb Chartered Arbitrator are acquired with years of professional experience and demonstration of your competence. The sixth type of membership is Corporate membership for organisations who wish to demonstrate their competence within the ADR and arbitration industry.

ACIArb Meaning

ACIArb, meaning Associate of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, is the Associate rank of membership. This, as mentioned above is a rank that can only be acquired through completion of an accredited course or through years of proven experience. This membership shows employers and colleagues your dedication to the industry and your experience in arbitration education and that you have specialised knowledge.  

Benefits of the CIArb

Being a part of the CIArb provides many benefits to its members. As a start, individuals will gain industry recognition being a member of a professional body such as the CIArb. This is an internationally acclaimed membership which can be used to demonstrate your skills within the industry. You will also gain access to CIOB CPD , specialist courses, CIArb events, training and professional networking. The CIArb, being a worldwide-recognised institution, will help you find employment anywhere in the world with their highly-regarded postnominals.

Ethics and Equality

The CIArb enforces a code of conduct for all members, whether you are ACIArb, MCIArb or FCIArb. This is to promote fair and just arbitrations as well as behaviour and performance within general practicing. These rules set out to ensure equality and ethical practice within the institution and throughout all members – a core value of the CIArb. Rules such as these guarantee safe and respectful arbitrations without conflicts of interest, inadequately experienced arbitrators or inappropriate behaviour.  

CIArb Fees

Fees for each type of CIArb membership varies. Student membership, for those who are currently studying a degree, will receive membership free of charge until they graduate. Associates (ACIArb) will pay just over £250 for their membership. Full membership holders will pay £345 a year and Fellow members will pay just over £400.

Careers in Arbitration

Careers in arbitration are usually well-respected and high-earning. Many arbitrators first train in their professional field, for instance, construction, before later entering a career in arbitration. This is because there are no specific degrees teaching arbitration – it is more something which is later learned in one’s career. Usually an arbitrator, being an expert within a subject, is called upon to diffuse a situation based on their professional opinion and factual evidence within the field. Those working as a professional arbitrator can be looking at a salary with over 3 years’ experience can range anywhere from £30,000 upwards.