AAA-ICDR Arbitration Advocacy Certificate Program - Oct. 1 – Nov. 5, 2026

Time and Date:

Six-week series: Oct. 1 – Nov. 5, 2026

Thursdays, 4 – 5:30 p.m. ET

Registration Fees: Standard registration is $795. Register by August 31st and use code 26AACP01 at checkout to receive the discounted Early Bird rate of $695.

Program Description:

The AAA-ICDR Arbitration Advocacy Certificate Program is an intensive, practice-based training for attorneys looking to confidently transition from litigation tactics to effective arbitration advocacy. Led by experienced arbitrators and practitioners, the program blends practical instruction, interactive discussions, and real-world case exercises.

Participants gain a unique insider’s perspective on how cases are managed within the AAA-ICDR — learning how arbitrators approach decision-making, how AAA-ICDR rules are practically applied, and how attorneys can use this knowledge to better advocate for their client.

From managing discovery to presenting persuasive evidence and understanding award enforcement, this program provides the tools, techniques, and strategic insight needed to advocate effectively at every stage of the arbitration process.

Participants will be able to:

• Explain key strategic differences between arbitration and litigation and proactively adjust advocacy strategies.
• Strategically plan and manage each stage of arbitration as advocate — preliminary hearings, procedural orders, and targeted discovery.
• Apply practical advocacy techniques that resonate with arbitrators in openings, cross-examinations, and written submissions.
• Use technology and AI tools to enhance case organization, evidence management, and hearing efficiency.
• Prepare and present expert and fact witnesses effectively in both in-person and virtual settings.
• Evaluate arbitration awards and understand the critical enforcement and vacatur considerations.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical advocacy consistent with AAA-ICDR best practices.

Program Faculty:

W. Scott Simpson, Simpson, McMahan, Glick, and Burford, PLLC – AAA Arbitrator

Recognized Credentialing:

Earn an official AAA Advocacy Credly badge and AAA Completion Certificate.

Course Topics:

Week 1: Foundations, Arbitrability, and Arbitration Clauses
Week 2: Commencing Arbitration & Selecting the Tribunal
Week 3: Preliminary Hearing, Procedural Strategy & Case Management
Week 4: Discovery, Information Exchange & Discovery Advocacy
Week 5: The AAA Evidentiary Hearing: Presenting and Persuading
Week 6: Awards, Enforcement, & Challenges

Cancellation Policy:

Participants may cancel their registration for a full refund up to one week prior to the start of the 8-week course. After that point, refunds will not be provided.