The qualification and the method of appointment of arbitrators shall be prescribed by rule. Arbitrators shall be entitled to reasonable compensation for their services. Arbitration hearings shall be conducted by arbitrators sitting in panels of three or of such lesser number as may be stipulated by the parties.
2-1003A.Qualification, Appointment, and Compensation of Arbitrators.
Article II. Civil Practice · Part 10A. Mandatory Arbitration System · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified July 20, 2026
In one sentenceLeaves arbitrator qualifications and appointment to Supreme Court rule, guarantees arbitrators reasonable pay, and sets hearings before three-arbitrator panels unless the parties agree to fewer.
Full Text of 735 ILCS 5/2-1003A
Plain-English Summary
This section covers the people who staff the mandatory arbitration system. The method for qualifying and appointing arbitrators is set by rule, not spelled out in the statute itself, and arbitrators must receive reasonable compensation for their work.
The default panel size is three arbitrators per hearing. Parties can stipulate to fewer, which gives them some control over scheduling and cost.
What the section doesn't do is set specific qualifications or a fixed pay rate -- both are left open, with only a floor of reasonableness on compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many arbitrators hear a case?
Ordinarily three, unless the parties stipulate to a lesser number.
Who decides who qualifies as an arbitrator?
That's determined by rule, not fixed directly by this statute.
Are arbitrators paid for their service?
Yes. They're entitled to reasonable compensation.
Can the parties agree to a single arbitrator?
Yes, if they stipulate to a lesser number than the standard panel of three.
Does this section set hearing procedures?
No. It addresses only qualification, appointment, and compensation of arbitrators.
Amendment History
(Source: P.A. 84-844.)
Source & verification. Section text and amendment history are
reproduced verbatim from the Illinois Compiled Statutes, published by the
Illinois Compiled Statutes, Illinois General Assembly / Legislative Reference Bureau. Last verified July 20, 2026.
· Official source
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