At Davies & Davies, we recognise that transitioning from academic study to the practical realities of adjudication presents significant challenges. Our mentorship programme is designed to bridge that gap, offering aspiring adjudicators structured guidance, hands-on learning opportunities, and insightful feedback from leading experts in dispute resolution.
Supporting the Next Generation of Adjudicators
The adjudication landscape is evolving, with increasing scrutiny placed on decision-making and the rationale behind rulings. The expectations placed on adjudicators today are higher than ever, often equating to those of arbitrators, but within far stricter time constraints. Managing cases efficiently while delivering sound, enforceable decisions requires skill, discipline, and a deep understanding of the process.
Our programme provides a practical training ground where participants gain first-hand experience of real adjudications under the guidance of experienced professionals. From drafting directions to handling jurisdictional challenges, participants refine their decision-writing skills in a controlled but dynamic environment. They also develop critical case and time management abilities—both essential for maintaining control over the adjudication process.
Benefits of the Programme
- Exposure to real adjudication cases and live decision-making scenarios.
- Constructive feedback on decision writing, ensuring clarity, logic, and enforceability.
- Development of case management and procedural skills, essential for handling complex disputes under tight deadlines.
- The opportunity to observe any hearings, site visits, and the adjudicator’s approach to navigating disputes.
- A structured pathway towards professional accreditation, enhancing credibility with nominating bodies and dispute resolution panels.
- With a significant portion of the UK’s experienced adjudicators approaching retirement, there is an urgent need to cultivate the next generation. Our programme is committed to fostering a diverse pool of future adjudicators equipped to meet the challenges of this demanding field.
Programme Structure
Once approval is obtained from the disputing parties, participants are introduced to the adjudication process as it unfolds in real-time. They gain hands-on experience from the outset—drafting communications, engaging with procedural issues, and responding to case developments as they arise.
By the time the Response is submitted, participants should be fully immersed, dealing with live case management, observing hearings and site inspections, and ultimately drafting an independent decision. This structured approach ensures that learning is both comprehensive and practical. Following completion of three adjudications and the successful drafting of three independent decisions, we provide formal confirmation of pupillage completion. This documentation can support applications to adjudicator nominating bodies (ANBs) for panel inclusion.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the programme, candidates must meet the academic requirements for admission to adjudication panels such as CIArb or RICS. Typically, this includes holding a Diploma in Adjudication or an LLM/MSc with a Decision Writing module.
At Davies & Davies, we are committed to preparing adjudicators who not only meet industry standards but exceed them. Through this initiative, we aim to build a community of skilled professionals capable of delivering well-reasoned, enforceable decisions that uphold the integrity of the adjudication process.
For more information about our pupillage scheme, please contact: nigel@dda.law