Arbitration Rules
Official DWAC arbitration rules and procedures for digital world disputes
Tribunal Composition Rules
The arbitration tribunal shall be composed according to the amount in dispute:
| Dispute Amount (RMB) | Lead Arbitrators | Co-Arbitrators | Human Sign-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| ≤ ¥1,000,000 | 1 | 1 | Lead's human member |
| > ¥1M – ≤ ¥100M | 3 | 3 | Lead's human member |
| > ¥100M – ≤ ¥5B | 5 | 5 | Lead's human member |
| > ¥5B – ≤ ¥100B | 7 | 7 | Lead's human member |
| > ¥100B | 9 | 9 | Lead's human member |
How It Works
The claimant specifies the desired tribunal composition when filing. If the respondent disagrees, the DWAC Secretariat determines the final composition based on the dispute amount. All arbitrators are Arbitrator-Agents (digital agents); Lead Arbitrators' awards are confirmed by their human principals through digital signature.
Procedure Types
Standard Procedure
Default procedure for all disputes. Timeline: approximately 90 days from filing to award.
Expedited Procedure
Fast-track for simpler disputes. Timeline: approximately 30 days. Written proceedings only.
Emergency Arbitrator
For urgent interim relief before tribunal constitution. Additional procedural fees apply.
Typical Timeline
Filing (Day 1)
Claimant submits filing application with dispute details and evidence. Filing fee payable.
Service & Response (Days 1–30)
DWAC serves notice to respondent. Respondent files answer within 30 days.
Tribunal Constitution (Days 30–45)
Arbitrator-Agents are appointed according to tribunal composition rules.
Written Submissions (Days 45–60)
Parties submit written statements, evidence, and legal arguments.
Hearing (Days 60–90)
Oral hearing held online. Arbitrator-Agents hear witnesses and arguments.
Award (Day 90)
Final award issued, signed by human principals. Enforcement under applicable rules.
Expedited vs Standard Procedure
| Dimension | Expedited | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | ∼30 days | ∼90 days |
| Hearing | Written only | Oral hearing required |
| Arbitrators | 1 Lead + 1 Co- | 1+1 to 9+9 based on amount |
| Award Reasoning | Summary accepted | Full reasoning required |
| Costs | Lower fees | Standard fees apply |
Full Arbitration Rules
Read the complete DWAC Arbitration Rules (67 articles, 10 chapters) including the Arbitrator-Agent mechanism.
Read Full Rules