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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2017 - 2018

Module Title
Module Code
School

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

By the end of this module, the student will be familiar with the arbitration process and its practical use as an alternative to litigation. The student will also be aware of the difference between negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and litigation. The student will be able to assess the relative advantages and disadvantages of arbitration when trying to resolve a commercial dispute.

Learning Outcomes

1. Consider the meaning and philosophy of alternative dispute resolution
2. Explain the different types of alternative dispute resolution – arbitration, mediation, conciliation, expert determination, negotiation, litigation
3. Discuss coherently the fundamental rules of arbitration law in Ireland with reference to the relevant legislation and case law
4. Critically analyse the impact of arbitration law on dispute resolution mechanisms and how these operate in practice
5. Assess how arbitration is used in a business, commercial and social context
6. Evaluate problems with reference to case law, legislation and academic literature



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24No Description
Independent Study101No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Existing dispute resolution mechanisms

Comparing and contrasting negotiation, mediation, conciliation and arbitration as a means of resolving disputes. Focus on the distinctive features of arbitration.

Legislative framework – Arbitration Act 1954; Arbitration Act 1980; Arbitration (International Commercial) Act 1998

Arbitration. Defining arbitration. Agreement to refer existing or future disputes to arbitration. Arbitration clauses in standard form contracts.

Role of the Arbitrator. Appointment of arbitrators and umpire. Qualifications of an arbitrator. The rights and duties of the arbitrator. The course of an arbitral reference. Removing an arbitrator.

Awards - Types of awards. Form and content of awards. Enforcement of an award.

The Courts and Arbitration

Role of the High Court. Stay on legal proceedings. Court challenges to the decisions and awards of an arbitrator.

International Arbitration

Arbitration (International Commercial) Act, 1998 and UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration

The use of ADR in society.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment% Examination Weight%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Stewart, E.: 2003, Arbitration – Commentary and Sources. Dublin: First Law Limited,
  • Brown, H. & Marriott, A.: 1999, ADR Principles and Practice., Sweet & Maxwell, London,
  • Forde, M: 1994, Arbitration Law and Procedure., Roundhall Press, Dublin,
  • Mustill,M,: 1992, The Law and Practice of Commercial Arbitration in England, Butterworths, London,
  • Bevan, A: 1992, Alternative Dispute Resolution: A lawyer's guide to mediation and other forms of dispute resolution, Sweet & Maxwell, London,
  • Bradney, A., Cownie, F., Masson, J., Neal, A. & Newell, D.: 2005, How to Study Law. 5th ed. London: Thomson – Sweet & Maxwell.,
  • Knowles, J. & Thomas, P.: 0, (2006) Effective Legal Research. 1st ed. London: Thomson – Sweet & Maxwell,
  • Higgins, E. & Tatham, L.: 0, (2006) Successful Legal Writing. 1st ed. London: Thomson – Sweet & Maxwell,
Other Resources

6705, Journal, 0, Arbitration International, available online on Business Source Premier, 6706, Journal, 0, Dispute Resolution Journal, available online on Business Source Premier, 6707, Journal, 0, Pepperdine Dispute Resolution Law Journal, available on Heinonline,
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