Applying judicial independence principles to arbitration might, at first blush, seem a straightforward matter. There is considerable case law in Europe setting out various factors which can be taken into account in determining judicial independence. For example, an arbitrator, like a judge, would not be considered suitably independent if he currently acts as legal adviser to one of the parties to the dispute or sits on the Board of one of the companies in the case. Special features of the arbitration world, however, can sometimes render it difficult to determine the parameters of independence. Arbitrators, unlike many judges, often sit on an occasional basis, juggling counsel and advisory work with their duties as a sitting arbitrator. Many leading arbitrators are partners in large international law firms or are distinguished academics.