An arbitrator should be aware of any potential or perceived conflict of interest that may arise. Prior to accepting an appointment, an arbitrator must make the parties aware of any current or past relationship with any party involved in the arbitration, regardless of whether the nature of that relationship is professional or personal. Similarly, an arbitrator has an obligation to disclose any financial interest in the arbitration or with any party. If an arbitrator accepts an appointment and later becomes aware of a potential conflict of interest, disclosure must be made at that time. An arbitrator should disclose any circumstance that might reasonably raise a question as to the arbitrator’s impartiality.
