About

Why I arbitrate

I believe that resolving disputes should be efficient, fair, and less burdensome for the people involved. After years of seeing the frustrations and delays of the court system firsthand, I became convinced that a better way was possible when settlement wasn’t achievable through negotiation or mediation: arbitration.

My aim is to provide parties with a fair, timely, and legally sound resolution of the dispute—that respects parties’ time, reduces unnecessary stress, and truly addresses the issues at hand. In that way I can help people to move on from the dispute and on with their businesses and lives.

Finally, and not least, I enjoy problem solving through applying the law to difficult cases (irrespective of monetary value). For decades it’s been fascinating and it remains so !

My approach 

For me communication is key.  Many disputes stem not only from disagreements but from misunderstandings. It’s important to me that all parties fully understand the process. Thus I place a strong emphasis on clear, timely communication throughout the arbitration process. In answering parties’ questions transparently and clarifying potential uncertainties I build trust and clarity in the process.

I’m committed to integrity, clarity, and quality in every decision. In my decisions (awards), I prioritise clear reasoning so that—even when a party does not prevail—they understand why. This approach helps ensure that the outcome is respected, and that the process feels fair to everyone involved.

Together with international arbitrator Hew Dundas, I have co-authored:
The leading book on Scottish Arbitration “Dundas and Bartos on the Arbitration (Scotland) Act 2010” pub. W.Green – now in its second edition (2014).
The Scottish chapter in “Interim Measures in International Arbitration” (eds. Newman/Ong); pub. Juris 2015
I have also lectured to lawyers and students on arbitration and am a member of the Scottish Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

Testimonials

“I would concur with [these] sentiments regarding the way the arbitration has been handled and in my view this has provided an effective way of settling our dispute.”

Comments of the other party

“Many thanks for your prompt and careful attention to matters throughout.”

Comments of one party