Law Society Arbitration Scheme - Introduction

 

The Law Society Arbitration Scheme ('LSAS') is a legal dispute resolution scheme first conceived by the Law Society of Singapore in 2005, and launched on 1 August 2007 at the Singapore Management University.

 

The LSAS provides to the general public a process to resolve disputes by means of a system of arbitration that is quick and user-friendly. If an LSAS arbitration is conducted in its intended spirit, the scheme can facilitate time and cost savings for parties.

 

The LSAS offers the following advantages:

 

  • A simple arbitration procedure to make the LSAS user-friendly;

  • Parties are free to agree on their own arbitrators and thereby maintain party autonomy;

  • The LSAS is designed for a speedy resolution of disputes between parties. A quick resolution of disputes will save costs compared to long drawn litigation; and

  • The provision of facilities for the conduct of the arbitration at competitive rates by the Law Society of Singapore adds to the convenience of the LSAS.

 

The LSAS can be applied to all kinds of civil disputes, although the streamlined procedure is designed to expedite resolution of less complex claims. Besides general commercial disputes, the LSAS can be used to arbitrate disputes in the areas of employment, tenancy, renovation works, media, entertainment and travel amongst others.

 

Over time and with familiar usage, it is hoped that the LSAS can help to demystify traditional perceptions that legal disputes can only be resolved through long and expensive lawsuits.