May 26, 2020

Michael Gerard appointed vice chair of local branch of Chartered Insitute of Arbitrators

Michael Gerard has added another prestigious role to his long list of construction law credentials with his appointment as vice chair of the East Midlands branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).

CIArb is a multinational professional body for members working in the areas of dispute avoidance and dispute management. With over 16,000 members globally, the East Midlands group is part of an international network offering support and training across a range of dispute areas.

Supporting members during Covid-19

Michael’s’ appointment as vice-chair lasts for 12 months. The role includes supporting the branch chairperson and standing in for him when he is not available to attend events or fulfil his duties. Although many live events have been put on hold due to Covid-19, the Institute is still actively supporting its members.

CIArb

“I’m delighted to be taking on this new role with the East Midlands branch of CIArb,” Michael comments. “The Institute does such important work in offering specialised training, CPD and ongoing support to its members.”

“With the difficulties that the construction industry is facing getting back on its feet after lockdown and the continuing challenges posed by Covid-19, the construction industry really has need of independent bodies like CIArb.”

The education and membership departments at CIArb have adopted procedures in light of the Covid crisis to maintain services with minimal disruption with key online courses and assessments still running.

The right qualifications for the CIArb role

As well as being a registered adjudicator with CIArb, Michael is also is a panel registered adjudicator with the Royal Institution of British Architects (RIBA). After being called to the Bar in 2006, Michael is dual qualified as a chartered builder and has been practising as a solicitor specialising in construction, engineering and contract law since 2013. Prior to taking up the law, he was a quantity surveyor and an accredited expert with the Academy of Experts in the fields of quantum and delay.

As the founding partner of Michael Gerard Solicitors, Michael’s many years of experience in legal work around matters such as pre-action protocol, adjudication proceedings ADR and contract drafting is likely to be invaluable within his new role.

For more information about the services that Michael Gerard & Co offer across construction and engineering law contact us today. Call 01858 414 290 or email enquiries@mg-law.co.uk.