The German Arbitration Institute (DIS) will host its Spring Conference, focusing on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in dispute resolution, on 7 May 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. AI-driven processes increasingly influence: case presentation, case management, evidence presentation and evaluation, and decision-making. As such, the conference will critically examine the implications for efficiency, fairness, and regulatory oversight in arbitration and litigation.
Throughout the day, case studies, expert panels and discussions will address practical applications of AI, ethical and procedural challenges, and the broader societal impact of AI-driven dispute resolution.
The event will open with a keynote address by Bridget McCormack (American Arbitration Association) on the topic of “Arbitration 2030: AI’s Role in the Future of Dispute Resolution”.
Following the keynote, a panel discussion will examine the practical applications of AI in dispute resolution. Experts from the judiciary, a corporate legal department, a law firm, and the DIS will present real-world case studies illustrating how AI is currently being used to optimize processes, assess claims, and support legal decision-making. With perspectives from Florian Diekmann (Regional Court Rottweil), Franziska Fuchs (Robert Bosch GmbH), Eric Wagner (Gleiss Lutz), and Ramona Schardt (DIS), and moderated by Anke Meier (Noerr), this session will provide a well-rounded look at the benefits and challenges of AI in arbitration from different perspectives.
The morning concludes with a thought-provoking debate on the possibility of AI replacing human arbitrators. Moderated by Felix Zimmermann (Legal Tribune Online), Thomas Riehm (University of Passau) and Alexander Steinbrecher (Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe) will engage in a dynamic and contentious discussion about the feasibility, risks, and ethical implications of AI-driven decision-making. Should the future of arbitration involve robo-arbitrators, or will AI remain an assistive tool that enhances, but does not replace, human judgment?
After lunch, Jörg Risse (Baker McKenzie) will delve into "Amara’s Law" and its relevance to arbitration. His talk will challenge common assumptions about technological advancements, demonstrating through concrete examples how AI is already being used to resolve disputes. He will highlight the role of AI in decision-making within current DIS procedures, its impact on mass claims management, and its potential in claim valuation during mediation. This session promises to spark interesting discussions and shift perspectives on the practical realities of AI in arbitration.
The next panel will explore the boundaries and best practices for AI in arbitration, focusing on critical procedural stages such as drafting submissions, procedural orders, evidence collection, and award writing. Panelists Daniel Schnabl (Freshfields), André Janssen (Radboud Universiteit), and Nathalia Schomerus (CMS) will show, inter alia: how AI tools can be implemented practically in the day-to-day work of arbitration; which boundaries and best practices exist e.g. regarding data protection and disclosure obligations; and discuss additional risks regarding AI-generated evidence. The discussion, moderated by Vanessa Pickenpack (Oppenhoff), will offer valuable insights into the responsible integration of AI into arbitration practice.
The conference concludes with an outlook on the broader impact of AI on legal culture and dispute resolution. Will AI lead to a revolution or an evolution in arbitration? Experts Micha-Manuel Bues (Bryter), Dierk Schindler (Liquid Legal Institute), and Alisha Andert (Legal Tech Verband) will discuss how AI might influence access to justice, dispute prevention, and the overall role of arbitration in society. Moderated by Andreas Hacke (ZHMP), this session will address not only technological aspects but also touch upon the legal and societal implications of AI-driven dispute resolution.
Throughout the event, attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge AI solutions in the legal field. Vendors such as Jus Mundi will showcase legal chatbots and other AI-driven tools, providing hands-on experiences with technology that is shaping the future of arbitration. This interactive element will allow participants to engage directly with innovations that are already influencing arbitration practice.
Join us for a day of engaging discussions, expert insights, and practical demonstrations on how AI is transforming arbitration. Whether you are a legal professional, arbitrator, or technology enthusiast, this event offers something for you.
For further information, please refer to the programme and for registration, please visit our event website.
For further information and registration, please visit our event website.
DIS general meeting 2025
Date: 7 May 2025, start 5.15 pm
Venue: Kultur- & Kongresszentrum Liederhalle, Berliner Platz 1-3, 70174 Stuttgart
Registration will open soon.
DIS40 Spring Conference 2025 - Blockchain, Space, and Beyond? The Future Disputes in Arbitration
Date: 8 May 2025, 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
Venue: Design Offices Stuttgart Mitte, Lautenschlagerstraße 23a, 70173 Stuttgart
Karsten Grillitsch