Interim measures in arbitration

Interim measures may order preservation of assets, maintenance of the status quo, evidence protection or restraints on conduct during arbitration. In Swiss-seated arbitrations, arbitral tribunals may grant such measures unless the parties agreed otherwise, but court assistance may be needed for enforcement against a party or third party. Applicants usually must show prima facie entitlement, urgency and risk of irreparable or hard-to-repair harm. Security for costs or damages may be required if the measure later proves unjustified.