Which ground may be raised to challenge an arbitration award after it is issued?

• A. Bias of the neutral arbitrator
• B. The arbitrator's color of hair
• C. The award was issued on a weekend
• D. The arbitration clause was not notarized

Answer: (A)

Arbitral awards can be challenged only on limited grounds tied to the integrity of the process or the arbitrator’s authority. The key idea is that if the neutral arbitrator is biased, the integrity of the decision is compromised and the award may be vacated. This is why bias or evident partiality is a valid ground for challenging an award after it’s issued.

The other options don’t provide a recognized post-award challenge basis. A person’s hair color is irrelevant to the validity of the award. The award being issued on a weekend does not affect enforceability or the ability to challenge it. Notarization of the arbitration clause is typically not required to validate the arbitration agreement, and its absence doesn’t create a post-award ground to attack the award.