Screening for bias; communication with arbitrator candidates

§ 7555. Screening for bias; communication with arbitrator candidates. (a) Prior to inclusion on a list of proposed associate arbitrators, the arbitration administrator shall make an appropriate initial screening for bias and shall require associate arbitrator candidates for a particular case to complete a current personal disclosure statement under oath. In addition to other relevant information, the statement shall disclose any personal acquaintance with any of the parties or their counsel and the nature of such acquaintance. If the statement reveals facts which suggest the possibility of partiality, the arbitration administrator shall communicate those facts to the parties.

(b) No party shall communicate with an associate arbitrator candidate, directly or indirectly, except through the arbitration administrator, at any time after the filing of the demand for arbitration. Any candidate who is aware of such communication shall immediately notify the arbitration administrator.