The Bermuda International Mediation and Arbitration Centre has announced a partnership with Toronto-based Arbitration Place as it prepares to open next month.

Bimac, which will be Bermuda’s first dedicated dispute-resolution institution and hearing centre, said the agreement would give users access to specialist technology and support for domestic and cross-border arbitration and mediation proceedings.

The centre, based at Cedar House in Hamilton, will use Arbitration Place’s cloud-based Proceed platform to provide secure document management, electronic hearing bundles, real-time evidence presentation, annotation and live transcript access.

Services will also include hybrid and virtual hearing management, remote witness examinations, transcription, interpretation and technical support.

Sam Stevens, Bimac’s chief executive and registrar, said the partnership would allow the centre to open with a comprehensive digital hearing-service offering.

He said: “As domestic and cross-border disputes continue to grow in complexity, clients increasingly expect a sophisticated, seamless and technology-enabled experience.

“Whether a client requires a same-day transcript, technical support for a hybrid hearing or a fully integrated electronic hearing platform, Bimac will be able to deliver those services to the highest international standards.”

Bimac said the partnership combined its newly refurbished Hamilton facilities with Arbitration Place’s hearing technology, case-support and operational services.

The centre will administer cases under its own arbitration rules, offer arbitrator and mediator appointment services, and provide training and education initiatives. Its hearing rooms will also be available for proceedings administered by other arbitral institutions, as well as business meetings and events.

Jeffrey Mandell, chairman and CEO of Arbitration Place, said the Hamilton facilities presented an opportunity to serve domestic, regional and international users.

Bimac’s website is expected to launch next week.