Fast-Track Arbitration
Why fast-track exists
Most commercial disputes do not need a year. They need a competent decision quickly. Fast-Track Arbitration at Lex Arbitrate compresses the procedural calendar to deliver a reasoned award within six months of tribunal constitution, without sacrificing due process. The economy is procedural, not substantive.
Fast-track is the default for matters within the published claim-value band. For matters above the band, parties may elect fast-track jointly. Once elected, fast-track procedure controls.
The compressed calendar
| STAGE | FAST-TRACK | STANDARD (REFERENCE) |
|---|---|---|
| Constitution of tribunal | 21 days | 45 days |
| Statement of Claim | 30 days | 60 days |
| Statement of Defence | 30 days | 60 days |
| Document production | 21 days, narrowed | 60 days |
| Hearing | Single day, or documents-only | Up to five days |
| Final award | 60 days post-hearing | 90 days post-hearing |
| TOTAL: COMMENCEMENT TO AWARD | ~ 6 MONTHS | ~ 12 MONTHS |
Procedural simplifications
- Sole arbitrator appointed by the institution, drawn from the Fast-Track Roster.
- Page limits on pleadings (twenty-five pages each, exclusive of exhibits).
- Narrowed document production by Redfern Schedule, with the tribunal ruling on disputes within seven days.
- Witness statements stand as direct evidence; witness order limited to two per party except by leave.
- Documents-only option available by joint election; reduces total to four months.
When fast-track is not appropriate
Fast-track is unsuitable where the dispute involves novel questions of law, multiple counterparties with non-aligned interests, extensive expert evidence (typically three or more independent expert disciplines), or where credibility of oral testimony is central and discovery of contemporaneous documents is essential. The institution will refer such matters back to the standard track and explain its reasoning to the parties.