The Society for Computers and Law (SCL) is very pleased to announce a new mediation scheme for the resolution of technology disputes in England & Wales.
The SCL Mediation Scheme (SCLM) was the idea of SCL members, Paul Berwin and Damian Croker. It is intended to help achieve consensual resolution of “technology” disputes (meaning any dispute arising from a contract for the provision of tech-related goods and services including but not limited to software development contracts, outsourcing arrangements, systems integration contracts, IT consultancy contracts, software licensing agreements, blockchain/smart contracts, contracts relating to artificial intelligence and cloud computing contracts). This is not limited to disputes about the technology itself; it may be commercial disputes arising out of a broader technology context.
The SCLM will be launched at the SCL AI Conference on 8 October 2024 in London.
The SCLM documents are being published now in draft form for two reasons:
First, we are opening applications for mediators to join our inaugural Panel. Members of the Panel will be legal and non-legal professionals with considerable experience of both technology and dispute resolution. Applications are assessed to ensure candidates meet the required eligibility standards and appointment is then approved by members of the SCL Board of Trustees. The SCL Mediator Panel will be subject to regular review. For details, please see the eligibility criteria and the application form.
Second, we invite any comments on the draft documents, so we can refine and improve if required ahead of launch.
The draft documents are:
- The SCLM Rules
- The SCLM Model Clause
- The SCLM Information Sheet (to be completed by referring parties)
- The SCLM Schedule of Charges
- The SCL Mediator Panel Eligibility Criteria
- The SCL Mediator Application Form
Please provide your comments to hello@scl.org by 16 September 2024.
SCL Adjudication Scheme (SCLA)
This new Scheme will sit alongside the SCL Adjudication Scheme (SCLA), our three-month procedure for “technology” disputes – meaning any dispute arising from a contract for the provision of tech-related goods and services including software development contracts, outsourcing arrangements, systems integration contracts, IT consultancy contracts, software licensing agreements, blockchain/smart contracts, and cloud computing contracts.
Please click here for more details about the SCLA.