CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY
Effective Date: March 1, 2017 | Last Updated: October 5, 2025
1. Purpose AMA Settlement Services, Inc. (“AMA,” “we,” or “our”) is committed to conducting all dispute resolution services with strict confidentiality, neutrality, and professionalism. This policy establishes the confidential nature of all proceedings and protects AMA, its neutrals, and affiliates from unauthorized disclosure, testimony, or liability arising from the administration of any matter.
2. Scope of Protection: This policy applies to all AMA personnel, neutrals, contractors, and participants involved in any mediation, arbitration, appraisal, or related service. All communications, documents, records, and deliberations created or exchanged in connection with an AMA-administered proceeding are privileged, confidential, and protected from disclosure to the fullest extent permitted by law.
3. Mediation Confidentiality: All statements, offers, documents, and communications made during mediation are confidential and inadmissible in any court, arbitration, or administrative proceeding. - The mediator shall not be subpoenaed, compelled to testify, or required to produce notes, records, or reports in any legal forum. - AMA does not maintain verbatim records or transcripts of mediations. - No recording, video, or transcription of mediation sessions is permitted without written consent from AMA and all parties. AMA reserves full discretion to reject or terminate any mediation if confidentiality or neutrality is compromised.
4. Arbitration and Appraisal Confidentiality: All submissions, evidence, expert reports, and panel deliberations are confidential and for the exclusive use of the appointed neutral(s). - Only the final signed award or determination, as issued by AMA or its appointed neutral, shall be released to the parties. - AMA and its neutrals are not responsible for any subsequent use, interpretation, or enforcement of such awards by third parties. - Deliberative communications among neutrals are absolutely privileged.
5. Records, Data, and Case Files: All AMA records, notes, correspondence, and case data are the exclusive property of AMA Settlement Services, Inc. - AMA may retain or destroy case materials at its sole discretion in accordance with applicable retention standards. - No party has a right to inspect or obtain internal AMA documents, communications, or correspondence except as required by law. - All digital data is stored on secured systems, with access limited to authorized personnel only.
6. Neutral Protections: AMA neutrals shall not be called or compelled to testify in any later proceeding relating to a matter administered by AMA. - Neutrals are immune from liability to the same extent as judicial officers for all acts performed within the scope of their duties. - AMA and its neutrals expressly disclaim any responsibility for party decisions, settlements, or agreements reached as a result of mediation, appraisal, or arbitration.
7. Permitted Disclosures: AMA may disclose otherwise confidential information only when: - Required by law, subpoena, or court order; - Necessary to prevent a crime, fraud, or imminent threat of harm; - Authorized in writing by all parties; or - Needed to defend AMA or its neutrals against claims, complaints, or disciplinary proceedings. Such disclosures shall be narrowly tailored to the minimum information necessary.
8. Limitation of Liability: AMA Settlement Services, Inc., its officers, employees, and neutrals assume no responsibility for any loss, damage, or legal consequence arising from participation in, or reliance upon, any mediation, arbitration, appraisal, or related service. Use of AMA’s services constitutes acknowledgment and acceptance of this limitation.
9. Modifications and Enforcement: AMA may revise this policy at any time without prior notice. Updated versions will be posted on our website with a new “Last Updated” date. Continued participation in any AMA process after such updates constitutes acceptance of the revised terms. AMA reserves the right tosuspend or refuse service to any party that fails to comply with confidentiality obligations or attempts to compromise neutral integrity.
10. Contact Information: For questions or concerns regarding this policy: AMA Settlement Services, Inc. PO Box 1669 Riverview, FL 33568 Email: Admin@amasettlement.com Phone: (813) 459-4510