AAA launches Web3 panel for crypto disputes

The American Arbitration Association launched a specialist Web3 Panel on July 29, creating a roster of arbitrators for disputes involving blockchain systems, smart contracts, digital assets, tokenization and autonomous transactions. Summary Five initial arbitrators bring legal, academic and technology experience to blockchain and digital asset disputes. AAA will handle business and consumer Web3 cases under its existing arbitration and mediation rules. Parties still need an arbitration agreement before the specialist panel can hear their particular dispute. The New York-based organization said the panel is intended for commercial conflicts that combine familiar contract questions with technical evidence and cross-border activity. The official AAA announcement said the organization will continue recruiting specialists as the panel expands. The launch does not establish a regulator or court. Instead, it adds specialists to the AAA’s existing arbitration and mediation system. Parties must still have an arbitration agreement, or agree after a dispute arises, before the organization can administer a case. AAA Web3 panel covers code, custody and governance disputes The AAA said the panel...