After days or weeks of hearings in a complex commercial case, the arbitration panel usually asks counsel to submit closing briefs. The process for submitting briefs is often the subject of discussion between the arbitrators and counsel, with the panel making the final determination on the handling of this important step. In recent years, the most common process includes the simultaneous submission of final briefs followed by closing arguments a few days or weeks later. This provides the panel with ample time to review the briefs and prepare to ask questions at the closing arguments about the most significant or contentious issues.

Below are tips for writing a strong closing brief...

Originally published in Volume 31, Number 3 of California Litigation on February 25, 2019.