Dispute Resolution Section 2026 Fall Meeting: Dispute Resolution – The Evolving Landscape

Early Bird Special Ends: Thursday, August 13, 2026

Arbitration Pre-Hearing Filings and Merits Evidentiary Hearings Through the Lens of Arbitrators 

This program on arbitration pre-hearing filings and evidentiary merits hearings provides insight as to the different approaches taken by arbitrators with respect to pre-hearing filings including witness lists, witness statements, exhibit lists, exhibits, pre-hearing memoranda and the final pre-hearing conference. We will also be discussing the various practices used by arbitrators in conducting the evidentiary hearings including, among other topics, opening and closing statements, admission of documentary evidence, use of demonstratives, direct and cross-examination of witnesses, expert witness testimony and post-hearing briefs. You will hear from arbitrators as to what they need and want in order to conduct a full, efficient and fair hearing and to receive evidence that enables Arbitrators to render a thorough Award. 

Moderator: 

Loretta Gastwirth, Esq.

Arbitrator & Mediator

Chair – NYSBA DR Section

Great Neck, New York

Speakers: 

William Crosby, Esq. 

Immediate Past Chair of DRS 

Omnicom Group, Inc. 

New York, New York

Jennifer Lupo, Esq., 

Chair Elect – NYSBA DR Section; 

Lupo Dispute Resolution Services, PLLC

Richard Ziegler, Esq., Mediator, Arbitrator and ADR Advisor, 

Acumen ADR LLC

Civil Collaborative Practice. The Evolution of Dispute Resolution 

Collaborative Practice is an internationally recognized sophisticated dispute resolution process whereby clients actively participate in a structured interest-based negotiation with the sole purpose of reaching a settlement outside of court. Clients, supported by their respective collaboratively trained attorneys and any jointly retained neutrals, actively contribute to the settlement process. 

Attendees will be introduced to the Civil Collaborative Practice structure, understand interdisciplinary teams and roles in a commercial setting, address its ethical compliance, learn about its application to the unique strengths and challenges of a family business and employment context, and discover how they too can make Collaborative Practice a part of their dispute prevention and conflict resolution offerings. 

Moderator: 

Hon. Marilyn Genoa (ret.)

Synergist Mediation, Mediation Division of Genoa & Associates P.C 

Speakers: 

Marc O. Sheridan, Esq 

Markus & Sheridan, LLP 

New York, New York

R. Paul Faxon, Esq 

R. Paul Faxon LLC

Neurodiversity in the ADR Room: Rethinking Accessibility and Engagement 

As ADR continues to evolve, the field must recognize that traditional mediation and arbitration processes are not always designed with neurodiverse participants in mind. This panel will examine how conflict resolution professionals can create more accessible environments that foster equity and fairness. From sensory-sensitive hearing spaces to flexible communication methods and modified intake procedures, participants will explore practical strategies to enhance inclusion and reduce barriers. Panelists will also highlight case examples where adaptations led to more effective and empowering outcomes for all parties.

Moderator: 

Robin H. Gise, Esq

JAMS 

New York, New York 

Speakers: 

Tracy Powell-Rudy, M.S.

Vice President of Corporate Engagement

Integrate Autism Employment Advisors 

Katrina Nobles, Esq

Mediator and Director of Conflict Programs

Cornell University

When the Neutral Gets Hacked: Cybersecurity and Ethical Obligations for Dispute Resolution Professionals 

As alternative dispute resolution has firmly cemented itself in the digital realm, relying heavily on virtual platforms, cloud computing systems, and multiple digital communications technologies, arbitrators and mediators have become attractive targets for cyber criminals. Neutrals routinely handle highly sensitive commercial data, trade secrets, proprietary intellectual property, and personal information. But what happens when the security of the neutral itself is compromised? Breaches can compromise the confidentiality of the parties and their data and can call the integrity of the entire proceeding into question.

This program addresses the critical intersection of cybersecurity and professional responsibility uniquely tailored for dispute resolution professionals. Our panelists will examine the modern threat landscape confronting alternative dispute resolution, unpack a neutral's ethical duties regarding technological competence and confidentiality, and explore practical frameworks to prevent, mitigate, and respond to cyber incidents.

Speakers: 

Jenna F. Karadbil, Esq

Law Office of Jenna F. Karadbil, P.C.

New York, New York

Kaylin L. Whittingham, Esq.

Whittingham Law

New York, New York

Joseph V. DeMarco, Esq.

DeMarco Law, PLLC

New York, New York

Sponsorship Information Here!

Thank You to our Sponsors!

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Loretta Gastwirth, Esq. 

Loretta Gastwirth, Esq. Arbitrator & Mediator

Jennifer Lupo, Esq. 

Lupo Dispute Resolution Services PLLC

Hon. Marilyn Kalenscher Genoa (Ret.) 

Synergist Mediation