The Arbitration Act 1996

Understand the law governing arbitration in England and Wales

The Arbitration Act 1996, in force across England and Wales since 31 January 1997 and amended by the Arbitration Act 2025, consolidated prior legislation and transformed the practice of arbitration in those countries. Many challenging questions arising from the Act continue to occupy the courts, particularly the Commercial and Technology & Construction Courts, and guidance from legal experts continues to contribute to active debate on its interpretation.

The Arbitration Act 1996: A Commentary provides a practical, accessible, section-by-section overview of both the 1996 and 2025 Acts. Intended for arbitrators, lawyers, and practitioners who need a clear understanding of the Acts’ practical application, it covers the key cases that have shaped its interpretation, and has long been used by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators as a recommended training text.

Readers of the sixth edition will also find:

• Detailed commentary on the Arbitration Act 2025, keeping English arbitration law at the cutting edge
• Comprehensive updates reflecting new case law and court guidance
• Analysis of over 100 new arbitration cases and their impact on interpretation of the Act
• Practical, user-friendly organisation, supporting application by arbitration practitioners

The Arbitration Act 1996: A Commentary is an essential resource for arbitrators, barristers, solicitors, and other professionals working in, or connected with, arbitration.

“What is needed… is comprehensive guidance from those who have actual experience and knowledge of arbitration, whether as arbitrators or parties to arbitration. This new edition provides that guidance in full measure, just as have the previous editions. To my mind it is a source of invaluable assistance to all involved in English arbitration.”
—LORD SAVILLE of Newdigate