a. An alternative resolution proceeding shall be conducted by a single umpire unless otherwise expressly provided for in the agreement. If the agreement designates a person or persons, the person or persons named shall conduct the proceeding. If a method is provided in the agreement for appointing one or more umpires to conduct the alternative resolution proceeding, it shall be followed; but, if no method is provided, or if a method is provided and a party fails to avail himself of that method, or if for other reasons there is a lapse in the naming of an umpire or in filling a vacancy, the Superior Court shall in a summary action appoint the umpire. Any umpire so appointed shall serve with the same powers as if specifically designated.

b. Unless otherwise provided for in the agreement, or set by the parties at the commencement of the proceeding, the court shall set the umpire’s hourly fee.

c. An umpire is not competent to testify in any subsequent proceeding arising out of or related to an alternative resolution proceeding in which the umpire served, except for an action brought against the umpire pursuant to subsection d. of this section.

d. An umpire shall be immune from any claim for damages arising out of a proceeding in which the umpire served unless the award is overturned for the reasons set forth in paragraph (1) of subsection c. of section 13 of this act and there is a finding that the umpire participated in such wrongful conduct. Upon such a finding, a separate civil action or proceeding may be instituted against an umpire.

e. A finding that an umpire participated in wrongful conduct proscribed in paragraph (1) of subsection c. of section 13 of this act which results in the award being overturned, shall not be admissible as evidence in any subsequent action against the umpire, nor shall it establish any fact as a claim of res judicata. The wrongful conduct shall be proved de novo in any subsequent action or proceeding where the issue arises.

L. 1987, c. 54, s. 9.