Screening for bias; communication with arbitrator candidates

§ 7555. Screening for bias; communication with arbitrator candidates.\n(a) Prior to inclusion on a list of proposed associate arbitrators, the\narbitration administrator shall make an appropriate initial screening\nfor bias and shall require associate arbitrator candidates for a\nparticular case to complete a current personal disclosure statement\nunder oath. In addition to other relevant information, the statement\nshall disclose any personal acquaintance with any of the parties or\ntheir counsel and the nature of such acquaintance. If the statement\nreveals facts which suggest the possibility of partiality, the\narbitration administrator shall communicate those facts to the parties.\n (b) No party shall communicate with an associate arbitrator candidate,\ndirectly or indirectly, except through the arbitration administrator, at\nany time after the filing of the demand for arbitration. Any candidate\nwho is aware of such communication shall immediately notify the\narbitration administrator.\n