Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Counter-Memorial • HKIAC • New York Convention

Panama Convention

Term from Arbitration industry explained for recruiters

The Panama Convention is an important international agreement that deals with how business disputes are resolved across different countries in the Americas. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has experience with international dispute resolution, particularly involving Latin American countries. Think of it as a set of rules that helps companies from different countries solve their disagreements fairly, similar to how a referee uses a rulebook in sports. This agreement is formally called the Inter-American Convention on International Commercial Arbitration, but professionals usually just call it the Panama Convention because it was signed in Panama in 1975.

Examples in Resumes

Represented clients in international arbitration cases under the Panama Convention

Successfully resolved cross-border disputes applying Inter-American Convention principles

Handled multiple Panama Convention arbitrations involving Latin American parties

Typical job title: "International Arbitration Lawyers"

Also try searching for:

International Arbitration Attorney Cross-Border Dispute Lawyer Commercial Arbitration Counsel International Dispute Resolution Specialist Arbitration Lawyer International Commercial Lawyer

Where to Find International Arbitration Lawyers

Professional Organizations

Legal Networks

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you explain the key differences between the Panama Convention and the New York Convention?

Expected Answer: A senior attorney should explain in simple terms that while both conventions help enforce arbitration decisions internationally, the Panama Convention specifically focuses on Americas region, with some unique rules for handling disputes between American countries.

Q: What strategies have you used to enforce arbitration awards across different Latin American countries?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate practical experience with enforcing decisions in different countries, understanding local court systems, and navigating various legal requirements in different jurisdictions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a typical arbitration process under the Panama Convention?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic steps of starting an arbitration, selecting arbitrators, conducting hearings, and getting decisions enforced, in plain language without excessive legal jargon.

Q: How do you determine if the Panama Convention applies to a specific case?

Expected Answer: Should explain that they look at which countries are involved, whether it's a commercial dispute, and if the parties have agreed to arbitration, using practical examples.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of the Panama Convention?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's an agreement helping businesses from different American countries resolve their disputes through arbitration instead of going to court.

Q: Which countries are members of the Panama Convention?

Expected Answer: Should know that it primarily involves countries in North and South America, and be able to name some major participating countries like the United States, Brazil, and Mexico.