Kiran Raj

The Kerala High Court Arbitration Centre has invited applications for empanelment of arbitrators to Panel IV. As per Notification No. KHCAC-P-IV-02/2025 dated 10 March 2025, the Centre seeks applications from eligible advocates who meet the specified qualifications. The last date for submission of applications is 11 April 2025, up to 5 p.m.

Applicants must be practicing advocates with a minimum of 10 years of standing and experience in handling commercial disputes. Candidates must also be of good character, in sound health, and free from any disqualifications specified in the notification.

Applications must be submitted in the prescribed format, along with supporting documents, including proof of date of birth, educational qualifications, and enrollment certificate. An application fee of ₹1000 must be paid to the specified bank account of the Kerala High Court Arbitration Centre, and the receipt of payment is to be enclosed with the application. Applications received without the requisite fee will be rejected.

The Centre has stipulated that applications must be sent to the Director, Kerala High Court Arbitration Centre, Ram Mohan Palace (Old High Court Building), Marine Drive, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala, Pin: 682031. The envelope must clearly mention “Application for Empanelment as Arbitrator to Panel-IV” and include the sender’s complete address.

Candidates are required to forward self-attested copies of relevant documents with their application. Originals must be produced during final screening or whenever called upon by the Centre. Applications received after 5 p.m. on 11 April 2025 will not be accepted under any circumstances.

The empanelment process will include a personal interview, which will be assessed for a maximum of 100 marks across four components: knowledge in law (25 marks), integrity and dedication (25 marks), communication skills (25 marks), and temperament to serve as an arbitrator (25 marks). Candidates must score a minimum of 10 marks in each category to qualify.

In case of a large number of applications, a preliminary screening process, including a written test, may be conducted. Only those who qualify in this screening will be called for the final interview. The Centre will notify candidates via email or WhatsApp regarding the interview.

No communication will be sent by post. The list of shortlisted candidates will also be published on the official website of the Centre.

Candidates are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of the email ID and WhatsApp number provided. The Centre will not be responsible for any loss of communication resulting from incorrect contact details.

The Centre has stated that applicants who qualify and are approved by the Board of Governors will be empanelled. Selected candidates must attend the test or interview at their own expense.

It is noted that candidates must submit only one application in response to this notification. Once submitted, applications cannot be withdrawn. Applicants are required to ensure eligibility before submission. Any false information or suppression of material facts will lead to disqualification at any stage. Claims not mentioned in the application will not be considered later.

If any ineligibility or malpractice is detected at any stage, the candidate’s application will be cancelled. The Centre reserves the right to modify, withdraw, or cancel empanelment of candidates at any stage, including post-publication of the final list. The Kerala High Court Arbitration Centre may modify or cancel this notification without assigning any reason. The decision of the Council or Board of Governors in all matters concerning the empanelment is final and binding.

The final list of candidates who successfully complete the process will be published on the Centre’s website. Those included in the final list must undergo compulsory training organized by the Centre. Empanelled arbitrators will receive fees as per the Kerala High Court Arbitration Centre Rules, 2025. All empanelled candidates are required to comply with these Rules, along with any decisions, guidelines, and code of conduct issued by the Council and Board of Governors.

Applications open from 12 March 2025 at 10 a.m. and close on 11 April 2025 at 5 p.m. The date for display of the final list of eligible candidates for screening or interview will be notified later.

For queries, applicants may contact the Centre at 0484 2562978 or email keralahcac@gmail.com. Further information is available at https://arbitration.keralacourts.in/.

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