If there is more than one arbitrator, the powers of an arbitrator must be exercised by a majority of the arbitrators, but all of them shall conduct the hearing under subsection C of Section 16 of this act.
§ 1864.Multiple Arbitrators
Chapter 38B: Uniform Arbitration Act · Not amended since adoption on record · Last verified August 3, 2026
In one sentenceProvides that when more than one arbitrator hears a case, a majority exercises the arbitrator's powers, though every arbitrator on the panel must take part in conducting the hearing.
Full Text of § 1864
Amendment History
Added by Laws 2005, SB 873, c. 364, §14, eff. 1/1/2006.
Plain-English Summary
Section 1864 addresses arbitration panels with more than one arbitrator. The panel's powers -- deciding the case, ruling on evidence, and the rest -- are exercised by majority vote. But the hearing itself, governed by Section 1866(C), is a job for the whole panel: every arbitrator must take part in conducting it, not just the majority that ultimately decides the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
If there are three arbitrators, does the case get decided by majority vote?
Yes. Section 1864 says the powers of the arbitrator must be exercised by a majority when more than one arbitrator is appointed.
Does every arbitrator on a panel have to attend the hearing?
Yes. The statute requires all of them to conduct the hearing under Section 1866(C), even though only a majority is needed to decide the outcome.
Can one arbitrator on a three-member panel outvote the others and still bind the case?
No single arbitrator can. The statute requires a majority -- meaning at least two of three -- to exercise the arbitrator's powers.
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, enacted by the Oklahoma Legislature.
Last verified August 3, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: multiple arbitrators majority rule oklahoma12 O.S. § 1864panel of arbitrators oklahoma law