What authority does an arbitrator have in managing the course of arbitral hearings?

An arbitrator has the authority to set the terms for the hearing and notify the parties involved, which is a foundational aspect of their role in the arbitration process. This includes deciding the rules that will govern the proceedings, managing the schedule, and ensuring that all parties have been adequately informed about the procedures to be followed. The flexibility in managing hearings enables arbitrators to adapt the process to the specifics of each case, facilitating an efficient resolution of disputes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the rightful authority of an arbitrator. An arbitrator cannot decide the outcome of cases without hearings, as hearings are integral to determining the facts and arguments presented by both sides. Additionally, an arbitrator must adhere to relevant laws and cannot choose to ignore them, maintaining the legality and fairness of the proceedings. Finally, while an arbitrator can influence the timeline of the hearings, they do not have the authority to determine the total duration of all cases in arbitration, as those can vary greatly based on the complexity and specifics of each individual case.