Ms Male has studied through the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in London over a period of three years and successfully passed modules on contract and tort law, evidence, and the practice of arbitration, prior to being accepted as a member of the institute.
She brings over 20 years of practical experience as a chartered architect in the UK and Guernsey, which led to an interest in handling of construction related arbitration.
“If a dispute occurs in a building contract, arbitration – the use of a non-related, qualified third party – can provide an effective and private route to resolving the issue,” said Ms Male.
“Going to court is generally expensive, time consuming and a very public route most people would wish to avoid. Mediation, although the best way to solve a dispute in the first instance, does not necessarily lead to a decision, which is why arbitration has becoming increasingly popular in the local construction industry.”
Stuart Pearce, Director and Chartered Surveyor at CCD Architects, said: “I am always thrilled when members of our Team throw themselves in to learning new skills to widen their knowledge base, and 3 years is a massive commitment. The process of a legal dispute in the construction sector can be tricky to negotiate and Esther’s expertise, as well as her common sense and diplomacy, will prove invaluable going forward.”
Pictured top: Esther Male.