A leading US alternative dispute resolution provider, which allied recently to the UK's Centre for Dispute Resolution (CEDR), is facing a boycott by a claimant lawyers' group in a dispute over the recognition of class-action waivers in contract clauses.

The San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association has threatened to write JAMS out of its arbitration agreements if it does not refuse to recognise the waivers, which prevent consumers and employees from launching a group action.


The association claims JAMS has acted under pressure from the business community in backing the waivers.


JAMS president Steve Price said: 'In administering arbitrations in which a class-action preclusion clause is present, JAMS and its arbitrators will apply the law on a case- by-case basis in each jurisdiction.


'We have an obligation to both sides of the bar to remain neutral.'