Further, the RUAA gives the arbitrator more latitude to change an award when he determines it to be imperfect, incomplete or unclear. Finally, the RUAA gives the arbitrator more specific authority over the arbitration process, such as conducting pre-hearing conferences. The revisions to date are not considered final. However, the changes and additions that have been made are intended to maintain the arbitral concepts of party autonomy, speed, low cost, efficiency, finality and fairness. The changes are meant to enhance the arbitration process in the United States, while maintaining it as an important alternative to litigation.
Much work still lies ahead, and comments and ideas are welcome.
Timothy J. Heinsz is Dean and Earl F. Nelson Professor of Law at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law. Dean Heinsz is a commissioner of the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws and the reporter for the Drafting Committee on the Revised Uniform Arbitration Act. Dean Heinsz gratefully acknowledges the contributions of Dale Smith and Professor Doug Abrams to this article.