Prohibits person appointed as arbitrator who subsequently serves as mediator from resuming the role of arbitrator unless the parties agree.

This bill prohibits an arbitrator who later serves as a mediator in the same case from resuming the role of arbitrator without the explicit written agreement of both parties. It requires parties to consent in advance if an arbitrator-mediator wishes to return to arbitration after the mediation phase. The law codifies a court ruling that a mediator’s confidential knowledge of party discussions could compromise the neutrality required for binding arbitration. It directly affects arbitrators, mediators, and parties involved in New Jersey arbitration cases under the existing law.