Life Sciences Dispute Review Boards
Built for Complex Life Sciences Relationships
Where DRBs are used
Life Sciences DRBs are designed for complex, high-value agreements where disputes can disrupt operations, delay development, or create regulatory risk.
Common use cases include:
Joint research and development agreements
Licensing and IP agreements
Contract manufacturing (CDMO/CMO)
Supply and distribution agreements
Strategic collaborations and joint ventures
M&A and post-acquisition integration
How Life Sciences DRBs Differ from Traditional Dispute Resolution
DRB vs. traditional ADR
Life Sciences DRB
• Established at the start of a commercial agreement
• Focused on early issue identification and resolution
• Board maintains ongoing knowledge of the relationship and operations
• Regular updates and engagement with the parties
• Designed for complex, highly regulated environments
Traditional ADR
• Begins after a dispute arises
• Focused on resolving a defined dispute
• Neutral appointed after conflict develops
• Limited visibility into underlying operations
• Often used after positions have hardened
Resolve Issues Early and Keep Agreements on Track
Why use a DRB
Maintain business continuity
Keep critical partnerships moving forward, even when challenges arise.
Bring industry-specific expertise
Include industry executives, regulatory and compliance professionals, and attorneys with life sciences dispute experience.
Navigate regulatory and operational complexity
Address GMP or quality concerns, supply disruptions, licensing and royalty disputes, and development delays.
Reduce time and cost
Avoid prolonged disputes, formal proceedings, and operational disruption.
How a DRB Works
The process
1. Establish the Board
The DRB is created through a contract clause at the outset of the parties’ agreement.
Download Model Life Sciences DRB Clause (Single Member)
Download Model Life Sciences DRB Clause (3-Member)
2. Appoint Members
Parties select either a single-member or three-member board with AAA-ICDR support.
3. Stay engaged
• Regular DRB meetings (typically twice per year)
• Ongoing updates and information sharing
• Facility tours or operational briefings
4. Raise issues early
Parties bring disagreements to the DRB as they arise.
5. Review the issue
• Each party submits a concise written position (typically within 10 days)
• The DRB conducts an informal hearing
• The process is streamlined and flexible
6. Receive a recommendation
The DRB issues a written recommendation within 30 days of the hearing. If needed, disputes can still be escalated to arbitration.
Independent Administration that Supports a Fair, Consistent Process
AAA-ICDR Administration
AAA-ICDR can help:
Assist in selecting qualified DRB Members
Coordinate communications and procedures
Manage fees and administrative requirements
Support consistent application of DRB procedures
A transparent administrative framework, including an initial administrative fee and annual maintenance fee for the life of the DRB, supports the process.
Experienced Neutrals with Life Sciences Expertise
Panel
Life Sciences DRB Members are selected for their ability to navigate both scientific and commercial complexity.
Industry Expertise
Panel members include senior professionals from pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies, boards, and law firms, with first-hand experience in the operational realities of life sciences agreements.
Regulatory Insight
Members bring experience in regulatory and compliance roles, including GMP, quality, and oversight functions across manufacturers, CROs, and CMOs.
Dispute Resolution Experience
Attorneys and neutrals on the panel combine industry knowledge with experience in arbitration, mediation, and complex commercial disputes.