CLE Program: 2026 Arbitration Training
*Please note all times are in Central Time. Schedule is subject to change.
This comprehensive program equips participants with the essential skills and knowledge to conduct successful arbitrations under the Uniform Family Law Arbitration Act (UFLAA), and to advocate for its adoption in their state.
Learn more about the 2026 Arbitration Training speakers.
Pre-Event
Pre-Training Webinar
Participants will gain essential background in the development, statutory basis, and ethical requirements of family law arbitration, along with an overview of what to expect during the two‑day Arbitration Training.
Thursday, May 7
8:00 – 9:30 a.m.
Family Law Arbitration: Overview
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
Participants will develop a foundational understanding of family law arbitration, including how it differs from other forms of ADR and where it fits within modern dispute‑resolution practice. They will gain clarity on the advantages and limitations of arbitration, the statutory frameworks that govern it, and how recent case law influences procedural decisions such as compelling, staying, or terminating arbitration.
9:45 – 10:30 a.m.
Presenting the Arbitration Option
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will learn how to thoughtfully introduce arbitration as a strategic option to clients and opposing counsel. They will explore the factors that inform suitability—such as conflict dynamics, confidentiality needs, timing pressures, unsettled legal questions, and the likelihood of settlement—enabling them to advise clients with nuance and confidence.
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Avoiding Challenges Based on Conflicts of Interest
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will acquire a deeper appreciation for the ethical landscape surrounding conflicts of interest in arbitration. They will learn how to identify potential conflicts, make appropriate disclosures, navigate relationships in small professional communities, and use standardized forms to protect the integrity and enforceability of the arbitration process.
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Arbitration Initial Conference
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Participants will experience how an arbitrator conducts an initial conference, gaining insight into how expectations are established at the outset of the proceeding. They will learn how scope, procedures, evidentiary boundaries, confidentiality principles, and potential med‑arb pathways are discussed to create a solid procedural foundation.
1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Drafting Arbitration Agreements
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
Participants will strengthen their ability to draft a comprehensive arbitration agreement by understanding core components such as scope, authority, evidentiary standards, fee arrangements, and appellate provisions. They will learn how clear, precise drafting reduces future disputes and ensures the arbitration proceeds smoothly.
1:30 – 2:00 p.m.
Items to Include in the Agreement
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will identify the essential clauses that make an arbitration agreement complete and enforceable. They will learn how to articulate arbitrator powers, discovery expectations, confidentiality protections, child‑related limitations, cost allocations, and standards of review, ensuring clarity for all parties.
2:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Drafting Assignment-Agreement to Arbtirate
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Participants will apply their learning by drafting a full Agreement to Arbitrate based on the Armstrong hypothetical. This exercise will reinforce best practices, promote issue‑spotting, and help attendees translate theory into practical drafting skills.
2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Process of Arbitration
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will internalize a clear picture of the full arbitration lifecycle, from selecting venue and structuring med‑arb procedures to issuing interim directives and monitoring compliance. They will better understand how arbitration interacts with the court system and what procedural tools are available to maintain order and momentum.
3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Arbitration Discovery Conference and Drafting Interim Directive
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will observe how arbitrators manage discovery disputes through structured conferences and targeted interventions. They will learn how to address expert disagreements, subpoena challenges, and noncompliance issues—and will practice drafting interim directives that clarify obligations and move the case forward effectively.
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Interactive Discussion on Best Business Practices
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will explore practical strategies for building and sustaining a successful arbitration practice, as well as opportunities to be involved with AAML’s arbitration programs. They will consider how to brand their services, cultivate referrals, manage billing and collections, and position themselves as credible and accessible options for courts and colleagues.
Friday, May 8
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Conducting the Arbitration Hearing
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will gain insight into how to run an effective, orderly arbitration hearing, whether virtual or in‑person. They will learn how to manage witnesses, maintain decorum, handle difficult counsel, and adhere to due‑process standards while balancing the flexibility of the arbitration format.
9:15 – 10:15 a.m.
Award and Post-Award Procedure
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
Participants will learn how to craft a clear, enforceable arbitration award and how to manage what follows—motions to correct or clarify, confirmation in court, enforcement, and the limited scope of appeal. They will also understand the protections afforded to arbitrators during post‑award proceedings.
10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
DV Considerations in Arbitration
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will develop sensitivity to the complexities introduced by domestic‑violence dynamics in arbitration. They will learn how to screen cases appropriately, structure proceedings to protect vulnerable parties, maintain control in emotionally volatile settings, and ensure fairness throughout the process.
11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Custody Arbitration Considerations
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Participants will gain practical insight into managing custody issues within arbitration, including how to evaluate expert testimony, rule on objections, maintain neutrality during emotionally charged disputes, and ensure all voices are heard in matters affecting children.
12:30 – 12:45 p.m.
Best Practices from Judicial Perspective
Judge Robert L. Childers (Ret.), Arbitration & Mediation Services
Participants will benefit from a judge’s guidance on how to conduct themselves as arbitrators, emphasizing fairness, professionalism, procedural clarity, and effective case management. They will learn what court systems expect from arbitrators and how to align their practices accordingly.
12:45 – 1:30 p.m
Business Valuation Considerations in Arbitration
Rochelle B. Grossman (“Shelly”), Certified Mediator, Arbitrator, Parenting Coordinator, Center for Family Resolution
John A. Pappalardo, Partner, Pappalardo Law Group, PLLC
Participants will deepen their understanding of how to evaluate expert methodologies and credibility in business‑valuation disputes. They will learn how to manage high‑conflict financial cases, address claims of hidden income, and navigate challenges involving professional practices and closely held businesses.
1:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Drafting the Arbitration Award
Carolyn Moran Zack, Partner, Momjian Anderer LLC
Participants will practice drafting a comprehensive arbitration award using the Armstrong fact pattern. They will learn how to articulate findings, apply legal reasoning, evaluate evidence, and craft clear directives that resolve economic issues with precision.