NJ A638

Prohibits an arbitrator who assumes the role of mediator in the same matter from resuming their arbitrator duties unless all parties to the arbitration agree in writing

Adds a new ground for vacating an arbitration award when the arbitrator served as mediator and then resumed the arbitrator role without party consent

Requires any rehearing after vacating an award on this ground to be conducted before a new arbitrator, not the original arbitrator

Codifies the 2013 Appellate Division ruling in Minkowitz v. Israeli, which established that mediators who gain access to party confidences cannot retain the appearance of neutrality required for binding arbitration

Amends the New Jersey Uniform Arbitration Act (P.L.2003, c.95) to clarify the separation between arbitrator and mediator roles