Zoom vs. In-Person Arbitration Hearings

This article examines the transition from in-person to online arbitration hearings prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, evaluating the strengths and limitations of each format. Drawing on firsthand observations, it discusses issues of cost, safety, efficiency, scheduling, witness credibility, and ethical concerns. The analysis reveals that while Zoom hearings offer convenience and cost savings, in-person hearings still hold advantages in assessing credibility, managing evidence, and maintaining procedural integrity. The author concludes that both formats will likely coexist in the future, depending on case-specific needs.