Pro se is a Latin term meaning “on one’s own behalf.” In the context of arbitration, a pro se party is one who represents himself or herself and can also mean a business represented by a person who is not an attorney. While parties are not required to have an attorney to participate in arbitration, arbitration is a final, legally-binding process that may impact a party’s rights. As such, parties may want to consider consulting an attorney. For those parties that decide to participate in arbitration pro se, the American Arbitration Association (AAA) has developed numerous resources tailored to educate these parties. The resources offered below are designed to give pro se parties a basic understanding of the arbitration process as well as easy access to commonly used AAA forms and rules.

It is important to keep in mind that the AAA manages only the administrative aspects of the arbitration, such as the appointment of the arbitrator and handling the fees associated with the arbitration. The AAA and/or the arbitrator do not assist the parties in presenting their case. The AAA and/or the arbitrator do not provide legal advice or assistance to the parties and cannot give advice about your case or what documents you should use as evidence.
 

The American Arbitration Association’s Pro Se Case Administration Team

The AAA utilizes the Pro Se Case Administration Team for administration of cases involving pro se parties. This specialized team is comprised of highly skilled AAA case administrators who are experienced and trained in handling cases involving unrepresented (pro se) parties. Cases handled by this team will receive case management services designed to meet the needs of pro se parties.

To ensure an efficient and fair process, all communications on cases administered by this team are conducted in writing, with the exception of any in-person or telephonic hearings, which are conducted by the arbitrator. This helps parties focus on case issues, gives parties time to respond to submissions from opposing parties, and makes it possible for both parties to be copied on all correspondence.

The Pro Se Case Administration Team administers cases involving Commercial, Construction, Consumer, and Employment Disputes. Please feel free to explore the resources listed below.