Alliance University, through the Alliance Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ACADR) at the Alliance School of Law, organised a workshop on “The Art of Persuasive Arbitral Awards: Balancing Law and Narrative.” The session was conducted by Adv. Suadat Ahmad Kirmani, Partner at CMS IndusLaw, Bengaluru. The workshop aimed to help students understand the practical aspects of drafting arbitral awards and the importance of clear and reasoned legal writing.

The session focused on the distinction between understanding the law and articulating it effectively. Adv. Kirmani explained that writing arbitral awards requires both legal accuracy and clarity of thought. She highlighted how a well-structured award can communicate reasoning in a manner that is both precise and persuasive. Students were introduced to the key elements involved in drafting arbitral awards, including how to organise arguments, present facts logically, and ensure that conclusions are supported by sound reasoning. The discussion also addressed common challenges faced while writing and how they can be approached in a structured manner.

A key part of the workshop focused on balancing legal principles with narrative flow. Adv. Kirmani explained that while legal correctness is essential, the manner in which arguments are presented also plays an important role. She encouraged students to approach arbitral writing as a process that combines analytical thinking with clarity in expression. The session also highlighted the importance of coherence in decision-making and how consistency in reasoning strengthens the overall structure of an arbitral award.

The workshop further explored how arbitral awards are examined in courts. Adv. Kirmani discussed the standards applied during judicial scrutiny and the importance of drafting awards that can withstand such review. She explained how clarity, structure, and well-developed reasoning contribute to the credibility of an arbitral decision. This provided students with an understanding of how practical considerations influence legal writing and the importance of precision in professional practice.

The session offered students an opportunity to engage with the practical aspects of dispute resolution and move beyond theoretical learning. It introduced them to the nuances of legal writing in arbitration and provided insight into how law is applied in practice.