The American Arbitration Association Welcomes
Christine E. Drage, Esq., and Jacqueline Pons-Bunney, Esq., Partners at W&D Law, LLP, to its Complex Construction Arbitration and Mediation Panels.

W&D congratulates Christine E. Drage, Esq., and Jacqueline Pons-Bunney, Esq., for being invited, and accepted, to the prestigious legal panel of arbitrators and mediators for the American Arbitration Association, International Centre for Dispute Resolution, Complex Construction Division (“AAA”).

After receiving invitations to apply, and thereafter participating in a thorough admissions process and further training, in addition to their lengthy and distinguished legal careers, Ms. Drage and Ms. Pons-Bunney are proud to announce their membership in AAA, where the mission is to lead the world in providing innovative measures to prevent, mitigate, and resolve disputes fairly and efficiently, with the utmost integrity and exceptional service.

Alternative Dispute Resolution via Mediation and Arbitration Services

1. What is Mediation

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where an impartial third party, the mediator, helps disputing parties negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution. It’s a form of alternative dispute resolution that is less formal and rigid than litigation or arbitration, allowing for creative solutions and resolution. The mediator facilitates communication and negotiation, guiding the parties towards a settlement but not imposing a decision. Mediators for construction disputes are typically chosen based on their expertise and experience litigating construction cases. (Link to CED AAA resume and JPB AAA resume)

2. What is Arbitration

Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution where parties agree to have a neutral third party (the arbitrator or, in complex construction cases, multiple arbitrators) decide their dispute, rather than going to court where a judge and/or jury decides the disputes via verdict and judgment. The arbitrator’s decision in an Arbitration is binding on the parties involved. This process is often chosen for its potential to be faster, more cost-effective, more intellectually equitable, and more private than traditional litigation through the court system. Arbitrators for complex construction disputes are typically chosen based on their expertise and experience practicing construction law. (Link to CED AAA resume and JPB AAA resume)

“You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.”

~Winston Churchill