The book is written for arbitrators who are not lawyers and for lawyers who are not arbitrators. It sets out in short and simple terms the law of arbitration. It then describes in practical terms the course of an arbitration to assist arbitrators in conducting an arbitration and dealing with lawyers. The practical guide concludes with a sample arbitration from go to whoa so that both lawyers and arbitrators can see the advice in action. There are then two sections specifically for arbitrators. The first provides descriptions of the law that arbitrators may find useful. There are thirteen general entries, such as the Australian Legal System, Contract, Discovery, Evidence, Interpretation of Acts and Contracts, Pleadings and so on. There is then a glossary of legal terms for arbitrators. The final part contains the text of the uniform Commercial Arbitration Act 1984 and the Commonwealth International Arbitration Act 1974. The book is designed to be what its name suggests, namely, a companion for arbitrators. It is written with the express bias that the parties to an arbitration want arbitration, and not the exercises in litigation lawyers customarily pursue. Gibson has vast experience in litigation and arbitration, and in hearing and determining commercial disputes.