JAMS has announced the launch of ‘JAMS Next’, an initiative aiming to leverage AI-powered tools to streamline the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) process. Forming part of JAMS’ commitment to innovation in the AI space, ‘JAMS Next’ capabilities include AI-powered transcriptions, AI-assisted neutral search, AI rules, and virtual ADR services.

The Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS) has announced that it has created Mass Arbitration Procedures and Guidelines which are effective immediately. JAMS has said that within these procedures, mass arbitration is defined as 75 or more similar demands for arbitration filed against the same party or related parties by individual claimants represented by either the same law firm or law firms acting in coordination.

The Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS) has published a summary of revisions to its International Arbitration Rules, which came into effect on 1 March 2026. The amendments reinstate the Mediator-in-Reserve policy in the Rules following its removal in 2021, with minor updates from the version previously available on JAMS’ website. Article 2.2(a) now permits claimants to serve Requests for Arbitration electronically, unless prohibited by the law of the seat of arbitration, and removes the requirement to submit hard copies to JAMS, permitting fully electronic filing. Article 13.1 introduces new definitions of ‘Electronic Filing (e-filing)’ and ‘Electronic Service (e-service)’, aligned with those in the JAMS Comprehensive Arbitration Rules to promote uniformity across JAMS rule sets. Article 13.6 restricts hard copy document service methods to hand-delivery, overnight delivery or US mail (for parties located in the US), removing the previous option for service ‘by any other means of communication that provides a record of transmission’.

The Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS) has published the Labour Arbitration Rules, effective from 4 June 2025. The rules govern the binding arbitration of labour disputes where parties have agreed to their use in collective bargaining agreements or post-dispute arbitration agreements. Administered by JAMS and its National Arbitration Committee, the rules outline the procedures for initiating arbitration, selecting arbitrators and conducting hearings. The rules address confidentiality, representation, jurisdictional challenges and the enforcement of awards. JAMS retains discretion over administrative matters and may amend the rules without notice. Additionally, the rules emphasise party autonomy, allowing parties to agree on alternative procedures consistent with applicable law. Provisions are included for expedited procedures, sanctions for non-compliance and the allocation of fees. Arbitration awards are deemed final, with conditions specified for reopening or waiving hearings.

The Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS) has published its 2024 Resolution Report. The report shows that JAMS has handled 21,390 new cases in 2024, a 10% increase from 2023, including 266 international cases spanning 13 global regions. The caseload covered multiple practice areas including business, energy, construction, financial markets, healthcare, insurance and intellectual property matters.

JAMS has reported rising global demand for alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services in its 2025 Resolution Report, stating that 21,939 new cases were filed during the year and that it handled 28,345 active matters overall. The organisation said 308 of the new filings were international cases, representing an increase of nearly 16% compared with 2024, involving parties from jurisdictions worldwide, particularly Australia, Canada, the UK, France and the United Arab Emirates. JAMS stated that the most frequently selected arbitration venues were New York, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Miami, reflecting the continued prominence of the United States as a forum for international dispute resolution. Kimberly Taylor, chief executive officer and president of JAMS, said the figures demonstrated continued confidence in the organisation’s neutrals, services and dispute resolution processes for cross-border disputes. The report also stated that international arbitrations filed under JAMS Rules increased by 51% year on year and that cases proceeding to an award were resolved in an average of 20 months. JAMS said the disputes covered a wide range of sectors, including energy, construction, entertainment, financial markets, healthcare, insurance, intellectual property, life sciences, blockchain, sports and technology.

The Japan Commercial Arbitration Association (JCAA) has announced its upcoming free online webinar on 23 January 2025, focusing on creating dispute-resilient contracts for businesses operating in China. The seminar will address the complexities of the Chinese market, including economic challenges, data regulations, and security concerns. Key topics include the purpose of contracts, China-specific considerations, negotiation strategies, and recent developments in dispute resolution clauses. The webinar will cover critical aspects of Chinese contract law, including licensing regulations, the Civil Code, CISG application, and restrictions on choice of law. Speakers with extensive experience in Chinese law and business practices will provide insights on typical contracts such as technology licensing, agency, equity transfer, and joint venture agreements.

The Japan Commercial Arbitration Association (JCAA) has announced the formation of an Advisory Board, effective 25 October 2024. This strategic move aims to bolster Japan's position in the global arbitration landscape. The Board, comprising 14 distinguished experts from various jurisdictions, will guide the JCAA's strategic direction and development of arbitration services. Led by Chairperson, Hiroyuki Tezuka, the Board will focus on refining arbitration procedures, promoting best practices, and addressing emerging trends in international dispute resolution. Whilst not involved in case administration, the Board's collective expertise is expected to significantly enhance the JCAA's contribution to the field of international arbitration.

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) and the Select Committee on the Constitution have published reports on the Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Bill. The Bill was introduced in the House of Commons on 7 December 2023 and brought to the House of Lords on 18 January 2024. The second reading took place on 29 January 2024 and committee stage is to begin on 12 February 2024. The report of the Select Committee on the Constitution discusses parliamentary sovereignty, the separation of powers and the rule of law; access to the courts; human rights and international law and the rule of law. The JCHR's report discusses various topics relating to the Bill including a background to the Bill, asylum and human rights, the safety of Rwanda, judicial scrutiny, the disapplication of human rights law, interim measures from the European Court of Human Rights and the conclusions and recommendations of the JCHR.

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has announced that it will scrutinise the draft Human Rights Act 1998 (Remedial) Order 2025. This follows the European Court of Human Rights’ judgment in SW v United Kingdom, which found that section 9(3) of the Human Rights Act 1998 is incompatible with Article 13 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as it prevents individuals from claiming damages for judicial acts done in good faith which breach their rights under Article 8 ECHR. The JCHR is mandated under Standing Orders to examine proposed remedial orders and report its findings to Parliament within 60 sitting days. As part of it inquiry, the JCHR invites written submissions by 26 September 2025.

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has launched a call for evidence as part of its legislative scrutiny of the Immigration and Asylum Bill. The Committee will examine whether the Bill, introduced by the government to implement reforms set out in its November 2025 policy statement Restoring Order and Control, and related measures are compatible with the UK's human rights obligations, including under the European Convention on Human Rights and the Refugee Convention. The closing date for submission of written evidence is 1 September 2026.

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has issued a call for evidence examining the human rights implications of the Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill. The Committee seeks submissions by 11 April 2025 on eight specific areas, including new immigration crime offences, channel crossing endangerment provisions, biometric data collection powers, and retained elements of the Illegal Migration Act 2023. The scrutiny focuses on compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights, Refugee Convention, and other international obligations.