Profile photo of Thomas J. Stipanowich, Esq.

Thomas J. Stipanowich, Esq.

Arbitrator Mediator Neutral Evaluator Special Master
Los Angeles, CA, United States

About

With over thirty years of experience, this neutral has served as a sole arbitrator, chair, or wing in more than 150 cases involving multi-million and multi-billion dollar claims. His background includes extensive work in international and domestic commercial disputes, construction law, and complex contract matters. He previously served as the President and CEO of the International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution (CPR) and held the William H. Webster Chair in Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Construction Energy & Environment Entertainment & Media Intellectual Property International & Cross-Border Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Arbitrator and Mediator
JAMS
William H. Webster Chair in Dispute Resolution and Professor of Law
Pepperdine University Caruso School of Law
Dean
Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution
President and CEO
International Institute for Conflict Prevention & Resolution (CPR)
Professor of Law
University of Kentucky College of Law
Partner
Stites & Harbison

Publications Leadership

  • Lead Author, 'Commercial Arbitration at Its Best: Strategies for Business Users'
  • Co-author, 'Resolving Disputes: Strategy and Practice'
  • Author, 'The Arbitration Penumbra: ADR and Judicial Review'
  • Editor-in-Chief, 'Protocols for Expeditious, Cost-Effective Commercial Arbitration'
  • Speaker, 'International Arbitration: The Next Generation', ICCA Congress
  • Keynote Speaker, 'The Future of ADR', ABA Dispute Resolution Section Annual Conference

Positioning Takeaways

This neutral offers a rare combination of academic depth as a former law professor and practical expertise as a high-stakes international arbitrator. His background in architecture and construction makes him uniquely qualified for technical engineering and real estate disputes. He is best suited for complex, high-value commercial cases requiring a neutral with significant leadership experience in global ADR policy.

License & Certifications

  • Admitted to the Bar
  • Illinois
  • Admitted to the Bar
  • Kentucky

Education

J.D.
University of Illinois College of Law
1980
M.A. in Architecture
University of Illinois
1976
B.S. in Architectural Studies
University of Illinois
1974

Distinction

Recognized as one of the most influential figures in modern arbitration, he is a primary author of the leading multi-volume treatise on the Federal Arbitration Act.

Reputation

He is widely regarded by legal professionals and international institutions as a preeminent authority and scholar in the field of alternative dispute resolution, noted for his deep technical knowledge and fair-minded approach to complex multi-party proceedings.