LLB 5 Semester Alternate Dispute Resolution
LLB 5 Semester Alternate Dispute Resolution
LLB 5 Semester Alternate Dispute Resolution
LLB 5 t h SEMESTER
ALTERNATE DISPUTE RESOLUTION
S.NO ADR - IMPORTANT QUESTIONS REP
1 Define Arbitration and what are the advantages and disadvantages of Alternate Dispute Resolution System? 7
2 Explain Triadic (Third party) intervention. And what are the techniques and process for arbitration Award? 3
3 Negotiation 4
4 Define Arbitrator Write in brief the procedure followed to appoint and remove Arbitrator 5
5 Arbitral/Arbitration Agreement 3
6 Examine the form and content of an arbitral award and the grounds to set aside arbitral award (not stating the reasons is a valid ground)
5
7 What is Foreign Award and procedure for enforcement of a Foreign Award 4
8 Define Conciliation and explain the efficacy and advantages of Conciliation as an ADR 3
9 Define Family Courts and describe the functions of the Family Courts 3
10 Section 89 of the Code of Civil Procedure (its role in settlement of disputes) 6
11 Role of Lokpal and Lokayukta in administration of justice in India 5
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Among the all the ADR processes, arbitration is the most formal method used settle any dispute. In this
process the parties with a disagreement transfer their dispute to a third party, who will make a judgment
on their behalf. This ruling will then be legally obligatory on the parties. Arbitration ADR is strictly
followed by Arbitration Act 1996. The agreement to go to arbitration can be made by the parties at any
time. It can be written into a business contract by what is called a Scott v Avery clause or the parties may
just agree on arbitration when a dispute arises. The parties can agree the number of arbitrators who will
hear their dispute. It could be three, two or just one person. The parties will normally appoint someone
who is a professional in their particular area of business. There is also the Institute of Arbitrators who will
provide trained conciliators to parties who wish to settle a dispute
2 Negotiation
ADR process is the simplest for negotiation. According to this process two people having a dispute can
negotiate and come to a solution themselves. The benefits to the parties involved are that it is completely
private and it’s fast and cheap.
Where parties to a dispute cannot resolve it themselves they possess authority to instruct solicitors
who will negotiate on their behalf. Even when negotiation fails at these early stages of a dispute and
court proceedings start solicitors will usually continue to negotiate on their client’s behalf. This results in
many cases being settled out of court.
3 Mediation
According to this ADR a neutral person (the mediator) assists the parties to reach a compromise. The job
of the mediator is to consult with each party and see how much common ground and interest there is
between them. She/he should act as an initiator, taking offers between the parties. The mediator doesn’t
offer an opinion. Mediation is most suitable where there is some chance that the parties will co-operate.
Mediation is not legally binding on the parties.
Based on the opinion of Centre for Dispute Resolution it is found that around 80% of the disputes that
are dealt reach a settlement without the need for any court action.
4 Conciliation
Conciliation is similar to mediation where a neutral third party helps the parties to resolve their dispute;
however, the conciliator plays a more dynamic role in the process. S/he will be expected to recommend
ways in which a compromise could be reached. Conciliation is not legally binding on the parties. The
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) are used by many employers and Trade Unions to
settle disputes before (and sometimes during) industrial action takes place. The success rate of such ADR
process is found to be around 60% without the necessity of hearing the Employment Tribunal.
(a) Cost Saving: One of the largest reasons parties choose to resolve their disputes outside of the courts is
cost. Judicial process for resolving any disputes involves court fees, documentation fees, advocate’s fees
and many other extra costs. Moreover, if there is corruption present, the cost may rise even higher. ADR
does not involve expert fees or courts costs. Alternative dispute resolution usually costs much less than
litigation, allowing smaller financial disputes a financially viable way to be settled. ADR also saves the
money of government.
(b) Speed: Adjudicative process for resolving conflicts are very lengthy since there are court decisions
upon which the hearing is dependent. Litigation can take over a year to resolve because of different timing
and dates involved. Matters that are being solved using the ADR method may take months or even just
weeks to be resolved. ADR can be arranged by the parties and the panelist as soon as they are able to
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meet. Compared to the court process, where waits of 2-3 years are normal, dispute resolution is as fast as
the parties want it to be.
(c) Control: The parties have control over some of the processes in ADR. Usually selecting the method of
ADR, selecting the panelist for the dispute resolution; the length of the process; and, in a mediations case,
even the outcome are controlled and maintained by the parties. In case of lawsuit process the control is
totally possessed by the court and supreme authority. Opposed to the court system, where the legal
system and the judge control every aspect, ADR is much more flexible. Furthermore, in the case of
arbitration the parties have far more flexibility in choosing the application of relevant industry standards,
domestic law, the law of a foreign country, a unique set of rules used by the arbitration service, or even
religious law, in some cases.
(d) Confidentiality: Privacy is fully securitized when it comes to Alternative Dispute Resolution. ADR is
conducted in private, therefore avoiding publicity from the media. The public are also unable to attend.
On the other hand disputes resolved in court are public and the judgments awarded are also in public.
ADR provides certain resolution processes such as, Mediation, arbitration, and mini trials that are
conducted in private maintain strict confidentiality.
(e) Experienced Neutral Panelists: The panelists are professional mediators and arbitrators with training
and expertise in dispute resolution. Disputing parties are able to select their panelist from a list of
qualified individuals who are specialized in specific aspects of environments. In the court system, binding
decisions are made by judges who may lack expertise in different practices.
(f) Cooperative Approach: All ADR services take place in a more informal, less confrontational
atmosphere. This is more conducive to maintain a positive business relationship between the two parties.
With mediation, specifically, the result is collaboration between the two parties. Therefore ADR is a
process that looks into the best interest of both parties in order to conclude a compromised mutual
decision.
(g) Flexibility: Legal and non-legal disputes can be addressed during this process proving it to be more
flexible. Some may think this is a suitable package in the sense that it takes into account fundamental
concerns of the parties and offers remedies not available when at court.
(h) Parties into Good Terms: The aim of ADR is to find a compromise solution which is satisfactory to both
parties. Court proceedings create a winner and a loser. Using ADR to settle a dispute means businesses
can remain on good terms and continue to trade with each other once their dispute is resolved.
The benefits or advantages of ADR is realized when the dispute or conflict is successfully resolved and all
the participant parties respect and value the outcomes provided by such procedure. The failure to
compromised decision pinpoints the weakness of ADR which to be adjusted for attaining fruitful outcome.
(a) Unequal Bargaining Power: In certain situations one side is able to control the other. Therefore a
significant imbalance of power exists. For example, employment and divorce cases, making the courts a
better option for a weak party.
(b) Lack of Legal Proficiency– Where a dispute involves difficult legal points a mediator or arbitrator is
unlikely to have the same legal expertise and knowledge as a judge. Dispute can be of various situations
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such as, commercial conflicts, social conflicts, legal conflicts and many others which require specialized
mediator. Most of the cases the mediator does not possess a judge’s point of view.
(c) No System of Specific Model– It isn’t easy to predict the outcome of a dispute decided through ADR
as there is no system of precedent. Therefore, it is easier to obtain evidence from the other party in a
lawsuit. Lack of system results in restricted prediction of outcomes.
(d) Enforceability – Most forms of ADR are not legally binding, making any award difficult to enforce.
Legal arbitration has some kind of process for internal appeals, which enables the decision as binding and
only subject to the review of court.
(e) Required Court Action: The arbitrator’s decision can require a court action if one of the parties refuse
to accept the arbitrator’s decision. This would not only create chaos but also a mandatory review by the
court. Thus, ADR sometimes raises the question of biasness of arbitrator’s decision. Also, there is very
limited opportunity for judicial review of an arbitrator’s decision. A court might also overturn an
arbitrator’s decision if it decided issues that were not within the scope of the arbitration agreement.
(f) Might not be A Good Fit: Alternative dispute resolutions generally resolve only issues of money or
civil disputes. Alternative dispute resolution proceedings will not result in injunctive orders. They cannot
result in an order requiring one of the parties to do or cease doing a particular affirmative act.
(g) Limits Discovery Process: ADR generally proceeding without the protections offered parties in
litigation, such as those rules governed through discovery. Courts generally allow a great deal of latitude
in the discovery process, which is not active in alternative dispute resolution.
Conclusion
Essentially the advantages and disadvantages of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) are important to
consider before agreeing to any sort of ADR techniques. It reduces the chances of unknowingly agreeing in
any arbitration. The perception of advantages over the cons of ADR fully depends on situation to situation
where the parties are in severe need of perusing such techniques to attain mutual interest. After satisfying
certain standards, many lease agreements and employee contracts have mandatory arbitration provisions
which will usually be enforced. ADR can be a good alternative to the courts as long as it is used in the
exact way and for the exact type of disputes. Though there are few minor deficiencies, ADR can save both
time and cost and legal fees.
2. Explain Triadic (Third party) intervention. And what are the techniques and process for arbitration
Award?
Answer: What is Third-Party Intervention?
Third-Party Intervention is an involvement of person/team into on-going conflict of two parties like
management and union to resolve conflict. Generally, third party interventions help parties analyse
consequence of their action and manages/ resolve conflict in mutually beneficial way. There are various
levels of third party interventions mandated by laws in employer and labour relations in collective
bargaining framework.
The terms "third party" and "intermediary" are both used to refer to a person or team of people who
become involved in a conflict to help the disputing parties manage or resolve it. Third parties might act as
consultants, helping one side or both sides analyze the conflict and plan an effective response.
Alternatively, they might act as facilitators, arranging meetings, setting agendas, and guiding productive
discussions. Facilitators will also usually record what was said, and may write up a short report
summarizing the discussions and any agreements that were reached.
A more active and powerful third party role is that of mediator. Mediators not only facilitate
discussions, but they usually impose a structure and process on the discussions that is designed to move
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the parties toward mutual understanding and win-win agreements. While many different styles of
mediation are common, most mediators have the conflicting parties sit down together to explain to each
other their views about the nature of the problem and how they think it might best be solved. The
mediator often tries to get the disputants to focus on underlying interests (the things they really need or
want) more than their initial opening positions (what they initially say they need or want). By clarifying
the divergent views and reasons for those views, mediators can usually get the parties to develop a
common understanding of the situation, which often yields a solution which satisfies the interests of all
parties. While some mediators take a stronger role in option identification and selection than others,
mediators do not have the power to impose a solution. At most, they can suggest a solution, which the
disputants may or may not accept.
The most powerful third party role is that of an arbitrator. An arbitrator listens to presentations made
by both sides, examines written materials and other evidence relating to a case, and then makes a
determination of who is right and who is wrong, or how a conflict should be settled. Usually, the
arbitrator’s decision is binding and cannot be appealed. Thus, the arbitrator is the most powerful type of
intermediary. Arbitration works well when the parties simply want a settlement, and do not worry about
losing control of the process or the outcome. For parties that want to maintain control, however, the
other forms of intervention (mediation or facilitation) are often preferred.
Arbitration:
The act, 1996 is a long step leap in the direction of an alternative dispute resolution system. Arbitration
and conciliation act was passed by the government of India in the year of 1996 as a measure of fulfilling
the obligation under the international treaties and convention in conformity with the Model law
UNCITRAL.
Previous legislation on arbitration is incomplete in nature, a conference presided by the Prime Minister of
India, P.V. Narasimha Rao, he consider International modern like the UNCITRAL law on commercial
International arbitration and he discuss about Arbitration in India, in the year of 1993. As the result of this
conference, and the drawback present in the previous legislation, to make the people satisfy the
arbitration and conciliation act 1996 was enacted by the parliament. It corporates the rules and regulation
from the UNCITRAL.
1. Arbitration clause: the clause which state that the parties will adopt arbitration method to resolve the
dispute.
2. Arbitration notice: in case of dispute between the parties arise, the party will send a notice to the
defaulting party for initiating the procedure of arbitration known as arbitration notice.
3. Appointment of Arbitrator: party appoint arbitrator as they think fit to resolve the dispute.
4. Statement of claim: after the arbitrator have been appointed as statement of claim is drafted by both
the parties. Statement of claim between the parties and the compensation claimed by the aggrieved
party. Sometime, the other party can find a counter claim as a reply to the statement of claim.
5. Hearing of parties: An arbitral tribunal will hear both the parties.
6. Arbitral award: The decision given by the arbitral tribunal is referred as 'arbitral award' and it is binding
on both the parties.
7. Execution of award: Once, the arbitral award has been passed, it has to be executed.
3. Negotiation.
Answer: What is Negotiation?
Negotiation is a method by which people settle differences. It is a process by which compromise or
agreement is reached while avoiding argument and dispute.
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In any disagreement, individuals understandably aim to achieve the best possible outcome for their
position (or perhaps an organisation they represent). However, the principles of fairness, seeking mutual
benefit and maintaining a relationship are the keys to a successful outcome.
Specific forms of negotiation are used in many situations: international affairs, the legal system,
government, industrial disputes or domestic relationships as examples. However, general negotiation
skills can be learned and applied in a wide range of activities. Negotiation skills can be of great benefit in
resolving any differences that arise between you and others.
Stages of Negotiation
In order to achieve a desirable outcome, it may be useful to follow a structured approach to negotiation.
For example, in a work situation a meeting may need to be arranged in which all parties involved can
come together.
The process of negotiation includes the following stages:
1. Preparation
2. Discussion
3. Clarification of goals
4. Negotiate towards a Win-Win outcome
5. Agreement
6. Implementation of a course of action
1. Preparation
Before any negotiation takes place, a decision needs to be taken as to when and where a meeting will take
place to discuss the problem and who will attend. Setting a limited time-scale can also be helpful to
prevent the disagreement continuing.
This stage involves ensuring all the pertinent facts of the situation are known in order to clarify your
own position. In the work example above, this would include knowing the ‘rules’ of your organisation, to
whom help is given, when help is not felt appropriate and the grounds for such refusals. Your
organisation may well have policies to which you can refer in preparation for the negotiation.
Undertaking preparation before discussing the disagreement will help to avoid further conflict and
unnecessarily wasting time during the meeting.
2. Discussion
During this stage, individuals or members of each side put forward the case as they see it, i.e. their
understanding of the situation. Key skills during this stage include questioning, listening and clarifying.
Sometimes it is helpful to take notes during the discussion stage to record all points put forward in case
there is need for further clarification. It is extremely important to listen, as when disagreement takes
place it is easy to make the mistake of saying too much and listening too little. Each side should have an
equal opportunity to present their case.
3. Clarifying Goals
From the discussion, the goals, interests and viewpoints of both sides of the disagreement need to be
clarified.
It is helpful to list these factors in order of priority. Through this clarification it is often possible to
identify or establish some common ground. Clarification is an essential part of the negotiation process,
without it misunderstandings are likely to occur which may cause problems and barriers to reaching a
beneficial outcome.
4. Negotiate Towards a Win-Win Outcome
This stage focuses on what is termed a 'win-win' outcome where both sides feel they have gained
something positive through the process of negotiation and both sides feel their point of view has been
taken into consideration.
A win-win outcome is usually the best result. Although this may not always be possible, through
negotiation, it should be the ultimate goal.
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4. Define Arbitrator Write in brief the procedure followed to appoint and remove Arbitrator.
Answer: Who is “Arbitrator”?
The present Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 does not define the word “Arbitrator”. However, in
the common parlance the word “Arbitrator” means person/persons to whom a particular matter or issue
in dispute is referred with the view to settle on the basis of submission made by the referred with the
view to settle on the basis of submission made by the conflicting parties.
According to Russell, the term “Arbitrator” is defined as follows:-
“An arbitrator is neither more nor less than a private judge of a private court (called an arbitral
tribunal) who gives a private judgment (called an award). He is a judge in that a dispute is submitted to
him, he is not a mere investigator but a person before whom material is placed by the parties, being either
or both of evidence and submissions, he gives a decision in accordance with his duty to hold the scales
fairly between the disputant’s in accordance with some recognised system of law and the rules of natural
justice. He is private insofar as:-
1. He is chosen and paid by the disputant’s,
2. He does not sit in public,
3. He acts in accordance with privately chosen procedure so far as that is not the requirement to
public policy.
4. So far as the law allows he is set up to the exclusion of the State Courts,
5. His authority and powers are only whatsoever he is given by the disputant’s agreement,
6. The effectiveness of his powers derives wholly from the private law of contract and accordingly
the nature and exercise of these powers must not be contrary to the proper law of the contract or
the public policy, bearing in mind that the paramount public policy is that freedom of contract is
not likely to be interfered with”.
In other words “Arbitrator” is a disinterested person to whom dispute/difference is referred to by the
conflicting parties.
Appointment of arbitrators
Parties normally mention in their arbitration clause whether disputes will be adjudicated by a sole
arbitrator or by a panel consisting of an odd number of arbitrators. The default provision is for a sole
arbitrator. If the parties fail to agree on the appointment of arbitrators, they have the option under
section 11 of the Arbitration Act to have the arbitrator(s) appointed by the court.
The Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2015 grants the liberty to the parties to appoint an
arbitrator mutually.
The Act provides that the parties are free to determine the number of arbitrators, provided that such
number shall not be an even number. However, if the parties fail to do so, the arbitral tribunal shall
consist of a sole arbitrator.
The procedure in relation to appointment of arbitrator(s) is provided under Section 11 of the Act. A
person of any nationality may be an arbitrator, unless otherwise agreed by the parties. The aforesaid
section also deals with the contingency wherein the parties fail to appoint an arbitrator mutually. In such
a situation, the appointment shall be made, upon request of a party, by the Supreme Court or any person
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or institution designated by such Court, in the case of an International Commercial arbitration or by High
Court or any person or institution designated by such Court, in case of a domestic arbitration.
Before the appointment of arbitrator is made, the concerned Court or the person or institution
designated by such Court is required to seek a disclosure in writing from the prospective arbitrator in
terms of Section 12(1) of the Act and also give due regard to any qualifications required for the arbitrator
by the agreement of the parties and the contents of the disclosure and other considerations as are likely
to secure the appointment of an independent and impartial arbitrator.
It may be noted that under Section 12(1) of the Act, an obligation has been cast upon the prospective
arbitrator to make an express disclosure on (a) circumstances which are likely to give rise to justifiable
doubts regarding his independence or impartiality; or (b) grounds which may affect his ability to complete
the arbitration within 12 (twelve) months.
The Act provides that in an International Commercial Arbitration, an arbitrator of a nationality other
than the nationalities of the parties may be appointed where the parties belong to different nationalities.
Removal of arbitrators
Parties can challenge the appointment of an arbitrator under sections 12 and 13 of the Arbitration Act,
if a justifiable doubt arises as to the arbitrator's independence or impartiality or the arbitrator(s) does not
possess the necessary qualification as agreed by the parties. Certain categories of Arbitrators have been
made ineligible under the amended provisions of the Arbitration Act. In addition, an arbitrator can be
removed under section 14 if the:
Arbitrator(s) is unable to perform his functions or for other reasons.
Arbitrator fails to act without undue delay.
Arbitrator withdraws from his office.
Parties agree to terminate the arbitrator's mandate.
Further, Section 14 of the Act provides that the mandate of an arbitrator shall terminate and he
shall be substituted by another arbitrator, if-
He becomes de jure or de facto unable to perform his functions or for other reasons fails
to act without undue delay; and
He withdraws from his office or the parties agree to the termination of his mandate.
Section 15 provides additional circumstances under which the mandate of an arbitrator shall
terminate. These include-
Where the arbitrator withdraws from office for any reason; or
By or pursuant to agreement of the parties.
If an arbitrator becomes legally or practically unable to perform his function or withdraws from his
office, the court can be approached to decide on the termination of the mandate of the arbitrator
and appointment of another arbitrator (unless otherwise agreed by the parties). However, the
arbitrator's impartiality and independence must be raised in the first instance before the
arbitrators. If the arbitrators do not accept the submission, this can be a ground for challenging
the award. However, the court can also remove arbitrators if they are found to be ineligible.
5. Arbitration Agreement.
Answer: Arbitration Agreement Explained
Section 7 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act of 1996 defines arbitration agreement as an agreement by
the parties to refer to arbitration all or some disputes which have arisen or will arise on a future date
between them with reference to a defined legal relationship, whether contractual or not. A doctor’s
relationship with his patient or a lawyer’s with his client are both examples of relations that are legal but
not necessarily contractual.
An Arbitration agreement is made by any two parties entering into a contract by which any disputes
arising between them with regard to the contract agreement is to be resolved, without going to the Courts
and with the help of an Arbitrator. The agreement should mention who should select the arbitrator;
regarding what kind of dispute the Arbitrator should give decision, the place of arbitration, etc.
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The parties need to sign the Arbitration Agreement and the decision shall be binding on the parties. If
you are a party to any contract and if you wish to resolve any disputes with the help of an Arbitrator,
without going to court, then you should make this agreement.
Arbitration agreement is like a contingent contract, meaning thereby that these agreements come into
being or become enforceable contingent to the happening of a dispute between the parties. It is only
enforceable in case there arises a dispute between the parties.
Written Agreement
An arbitration agreement must be in writing. As per Section 7 (4) of the Act, arbitration agreement is
considered to be in writing, if it is contained in:
1. document signed by the parties;
2. An exchange of letters, telex, telegrams or other means of telecommunication which provide a
record of the agreement; or
3. An exchange of statements of claim and defence in which the existence of the agreement is
alleged by one party and not defined by another.
Intention
Intention of the parties is of prime importance. No form has been prescribed for an arbitration agreement
and nowhere has it been mentioned that terms like arbitration, arbitrator are essential prerequisites in an
arbitration agreement. According to a leading case law in this subject, the intention of the parties to refer
their dispute to arbitration should be clearly discernible from the arbitration agreement.
Signature
An arbitration agreement needs to be signed by the parties. The agreement may be in the form of a signed
document by both the parties containing all the terms or it may also be a signed document by one party
which contains the terms and an acceptance signed by the other party. It will suffice if one party puts his
signature in the written submission and the other party accepts it.
1. The arbitration agreement must contemplate that the decision of the tribunal will be binding on
the parties to the agreement.
2. That the jurisdiction of the tribunal to decide the rights of the parties must derive from their
consent, or from an order of the Court or from a statute, the terms of which make it clear that the
process is to be arbitration.
3. The agreement must contemplate that substantive rights of the parties will be determined by the
arbitration tribunal.
4. That the tribunal will determine the rights of the parties in an impartial and judicial manner with
the tribunal being fair and equal to both sides.
5. The agreement of the parties to refer their disputes to the decision of the tribunal must be
intended to be enforceable in law.
6. The agreement must contemplate that the tribunal will make a decision upon a dispute which is
already formulated at the time when a reference is made to the tribunal.
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6. Examine the form and content of an arbitral award and the grounds to set aside arbitral award (not
stating the reasons is a valid ground)
Answer:
Form and Contents of Arbitral Award as per Section 31 of the Arbitration Act, 1940:
1. An arbitral award shall be made in writing and shall be signed by the members of the arbitral
tribunal.
2. For the purposes of sub-section (1), in arbitral proceedings with more than one arbitrator, the
signatures of the majority of all the members of the arbitral tribunal shall be sufficient so long as
the reason for any omitted signature is stated.
3. The arbitral award shall state the reasons upon which it is based, unless –
A. the parties have agreed that no reasons are to be given, or
B. the award is an arbitral award on agreed terms under section 30.
4. The arbitral award shall state its date and the place of arbitration as determined in accordance
with section 20 and the award shall be deemed to have been made at that place.
5. After the arbitral award is made, a signed copy shall be delivered to each party.
6. The arbitral tribunal may, at any time during the arbitral proceedings, make an interim arbitral
award on any matter with respect to which it may make a final arbitral award.
7. (a) Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, where and in so far as an arbitral award is for the
payment of money, the arbitral tribunal may include in the sum for which the award is made
interest, at such rate as it deems reasonable, on the whole or any part of the money, for the whole
or any part of the period between the date on which the cause of action arose and the date on
which the award is made.
(b) A sum directed to be paid by an arbitral award shall, unless the award otherwise directs, carry
interest at the rate of eighteen per centum per annum from the date of the award to the date of
payment.
8. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, -
A. the costs of an arbitration shall be fixed by the arbitral tribunal;
B. the arbitral tribunal shall specify -
(i) the party entitled to costs,
(ii) the party who shall pay the costs,
(iii) the amount of costs or method of determining that amount, and
(iv) the manner in which the costs shall be paid.
Incapacity of a party.
Unlawful agreement.
No notice to the other party.
Subject matter extent to the scope of the arbitration agreement.
Formation of Tribunal not as per the agreement.
Subject matter not under the arbitration law.
Award in conflict with the public policy of India.
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Prior to filing an application in the court to set aside the award, the party filing the application has to hand
over a notice of such filing to the opposite party.
1. Incapacity of the parties
In case any of the parties is of unsound mind or is minor, then such persons are not bound to act in
harmony with any agreement or contract. Therefore, the agreement itself becomes null and void and
passing any award in such case can be set aside by the court.
2. Unlawful agreement
If the contract is unlawful, then the arbitration agreement will also be held to be invalid. All the essential
elements of a contract have to accomplish in order for it to become enforceable.
3. No notice to the other party
A prior notice must be sent to the other party regarding the commencement of the proceedings or of
invocation of the arbitral clause of the agreement.
4. Subject matter extent to the scope of Arbitration Agreement
While formulating an agreement, the parties describe as to what all can be enclosed in the subject matter
and what are the disputes that are enclosed under the arbitration agreement. Consequently, only those
subject matters can be referred to an arbitral tribunal to resolve the dispute, not any other. If the tribunal
acts ultra vires to the agreement, the party affected may file an application in the court and challenge such
award.
5. Formation of the Tribunal not as per the Agreement
In case the Arbitrator is not appointed as per the agreed terms of the agreement or by the parties which
has not been followed or any other bureaucratic aspect that was decided earlier in the agreement by the
parties has not been followed all the way through, then such affected party may challenge the award in
the court to set aside the award.
6. Subject matter not under the ambit of Arbitration law
There are certain types of matters that are not arbitral in nature like criminal, insolvency or any other
public matters. These matters have been unambiguously barred under the purview of arbitration.
7. Award in conflict with the Public Policy of India
This ground has additional three more explanations, which was added in the 2015 amendment.
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Under the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2015. There are two avenues available for the
enforcement of foreign awards in India, viz., the New York Convention and the Geneva Convention, as the
case may be.
A. Enforcement under the New York Convention
Sections 44 to 52 of the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Act, 2015 deals with foreign awards
passed under the New York Convention.
The New York Convention defines "foreign award" as an arbitral award on differences between persons
arising out of legal relationships, whether contractual or not, considered as commercial under the law in
force in India, made on or after the 11th day of October, 1960-
A. In pursuance of an agreement in writing for arbitration to which the Convention set forth in the
First Schedule applies, and
B. In one of such territories as the Central Government, being satisfied that reciprocal provisions
have been made may, by notification in the Official Gazette, declare to be territories to which the
said Convention applies.
From the abovementioned conditions, it is clear that there are two pre-requisites for enforcement of
foreign awards under the New York Convention. These are:
A. The country must be a signatory to the New York Convention.
B. The award shall be made in the territory of another contracting state which is a reciprocating territory
and notified as such by the Central Government.
Section 47 provides that the party applying for the enforcement of a foreign award shall, at the time of the
application, produce before the court (a) original award or a duly authenticated copy thereof; (b) original
arbitration agreement or a duly certified copy thereof; and (c) any evidence required to establish that the
award is a foreign award. As per the new Act, the application for enforcement of a foreign award will now
only lie to High Court.
Once an application for enforcement of a foreign award is made, the other party has the opportunity to
file an objection against enforcement on the grounds recognized under Section 48 of the Act. These
grounds include:
A. the parties to the agreement referred to in section 44 were, under the law applicable to them,
under some incapacity, or the said agreement is not valid under the law to which the parties have
subjected it or, failing any indication thereon, under the law of the country where the award was
made; or
B. the party against whom the award is invoked was not given proper notice of the appointment of
the arbitrator or of the arbitral proceedings or was otherwise unable to present his case; or
C. the award deals with a difference not contemplated by or not falling within the terms of the
submission to arbitration, or it contains decisions on matters beyond the scope of the submission
to arbitration: Provided that, if the decisions on matters submitted to arbitration can be separated
from those not so submitted, that part of the award which contains decisions on matters
submitted to arbitration may be enforced; or
D. the composition of the arbitral authority or the arbitral procedure was not in accordance with the
agreement of the parties, or, failing such agreement, was not in accordance with the law of the
country where the arbitration took place; or
E. the award has not yet become binding on the parties, or has been set aside or suspended by a
competent authority of the country in which, or under the law of which, that award was made.
F. the subject-matter of the difference is not capable of settlement by arbitration under the law of
India; or
G. the enforcement of the award would be contrary to the public policy of India.
The Amendment Act has restricted the ambit of violation of public policy for international commercial
arbitration to only include those awards that are: (i) affected by fraud or corruption, (ii) in contravention
with the fundamental policy of Indian law, or (iii) conflict with the notions of morality or justice.
It is further provided that if an application for the setting aside or suspension of the award has been
made to a competent authority, the Court may, if it considers it proper, adjourn the decision on the
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enforcement of the award and may also, on the application of the party claiming enforcement of the
award, order the other party to give suitable security.
Section 49 provides that where the Court is satisfied that the foreign award is enforceable under this
Chapter, the award shall be deemed to be a decree of that Court.
8. Define Conciliation and explain the efficacy and advantages of Conciliation as an ADR.
Answer: What is Conciliation?
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Recommend or offer you and other members expert guidance on the potential options for sorting
out the matter of dispute.
Effectively encourage you and other participants to agree on a settlement.
Advantages of Conciliation
There are a number of advantages to the conciliation process. These include:
The presence of an experienced neutral (also an attorney) who will actively suggest possible
solutions to the problems at hand and evaluate the risks and costs associated with continuing the
dispute.
The ability to select the conciliator, allowing parties to choose their conciliator based on such
criteria as expertise, availability, and knowledge of the subject area.
Time and cost-efficiency due to the flexible nature of proceedings.
Total confidentiality agreed upon by both parties as well as the conciliator, which means both
parties can be assured of discretion no matter what the outcome of the process.
9. Define Family Courts and describe the functions of the Family Courts.
Answer:
The Family Courts Act, 1984 was part of the trends of legal reforms concerning women. Because of the
building pressure from various institutions lobbying for the welfare of women all over the country, the Act
was expected to facilitate satisfactory resolution of disputes concerning the family through a forum
expected to work expeditiously in a just manner and with an approach ensuring maximum welfare of
society and dignity of women. Prevalence of gender biased laws and oppressive social practices over
centuries have denied justice and basic human rights to Indian women. The need to establish the Family
Courts was first emphasized by the late Smt. Durgabai Deshmukh. After a tour of China in 1953, where she
had occasion to study the working of family courts, Smt. Deshmukh discussed the subject with certain
Judges and legal experts and then made a proposal to set up Family Courts in India to Prime Minister Pt.
Jawaharlal Nehru.
What is Family Court?
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Family courts are designed to deal with disputes arising in family matters such as divorce or child custody.
One of the main goals of family court is to settle legal problems that can occur in families. Each state
varies in how the family court operates. Therefore, it is best to look up your local family court in the area
to learn more about how it functions.
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10. Section 89 of the Code of Civil Procedure (its role in settlement of disputes).
Answer:
The Code of Civil Procedure (Amendment) Act, 1999 inserted Section 89 providing for settlement of
disputes outside the Court and additionally inserted Rules 1 A, 1 B, 1 C to Rule 1 of Order X to the Code.
Section 89 confers the jurisdiction on the court to refer a dispute to an ADR method, whereas Rules 1 A to
1 C of Order X lay down the way in which the jurisdiction is to be exercised by the court. The court
explains the alternatives concerning ADR method to the parties, permits them to take a method by
consensus, and if there's no consensus, proceeds to choose the method.
(a) Arbitration;
(b) Conciliation;
(c) Judicial settlement together with settlement through Lok Adalat; or
(d) Mediation
Further, Section 89 provides that when a dispute is referred for arbitration or conciliation, the
provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 shall apply as if the proceedings for arbitration or
conciliation were referred for settlement under the purview of the provisions of Arbitration and
Conciliation Act, 1996. In case of Lok Adalat, the provisions of sub-section (I) of Section 20 of the Legal
Services Authorities Act, 1987 shall apply.
In regard to the above provisions, a compulsory duty has been assigned to the civil courts to endeavour
for settlement of disputes through an ADR procedure.
The objective of Section 89 is to confirm that the court makes an endeavour to facilitate out-of-court
settlements through ADR processes before the trial commences.
Thus, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) which at one time was thought of as a voluntary act on the
part of the parties has currently obtained statutory recognition with the enactment of Arbitration and
Conciliation Act, 1996, Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, and also the incorporation of ADR mechanisms
envisaged in Section 89 and Order X Rules 1 A, 1 B and 1 C within the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 is an
extra radical step taken by law-makers for promoting ADR in India. Thus, the Indian law-makers have
currently created adequate provisions in law to facilitate introduction of ADR mechanisms in India.
There is flexibility within the use of ADR procedures. The flexibility is available within the procedure
and also within the process to get to a decision .The solutions may be problem-specific. The rigidity of
precedent as utilized in adversarial technique of dispute-resolution would not interfere in the way of
finding solutions to the disputes with creative means.
Thus, the growth of ADR strategies can give access to several litigants. It’ll facilitate in reducing the
excess work load that's placed on the judiciary. Once the cases unfinished before the judiciary become
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manageable, the courts would be able to improve the standard of their decisions. This would have a great
impact in improving not only the access to justice but even the standard of justice.
Constitution of Lokpal
The Lokpal will comprise of a chairperson and a maximum of eight members out of which fifty percent
should be judicial members and fifty percent of the total member should be SC, ST, OBC or minorities.
Prosecution
In the Lokpal Act, 2013 the Lokpal may approve the concerned investigating agency to initiate prosecution
in special courts even before deciding to file the charge sheet.
Hearing
Before a decision is rendered by Lokpal, the public servant has a right of hearing.
Investigation
The process of investigation and inquiry should be completed within six months. This involves speedy
disposal of cases as the time limit to investigate is mentioned to be six months. Only after the process of
Hearing, the investigation can commence.
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Minister. Fastening the investigation of the public officials indulged in corruption and prosecution is the
main purpose of the Act, except matters specifying to foreign affairs, atomic energy, security, and space.
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