Paula C. Arias, Esq., FCiarb
Paula C. Arias, Esq., FCiarb, is an accomplished attorney licensed in both Colombia and Florida, with over a decade of experience in international arbitration, cross-border transactions, and comparative law. She serves as Director and Lecturer at the University of Miami School of Law, where she leads the International Moot Court Program and teaches courses in law and arbitration, shaping the next generation of legal professionals. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and active member of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the Colombian American Bar Association (COLBAR), Paula is deeply engaged in advancing the practice of arbitration and fostering cross-cultural dialogue in the legal community.
In addition to her academic leadership, Paula maintains an active legal practice as an attorney and consultant, focusing on international arbitration and dispute resolution. She has served as an arbitrator in numerous proceedings and regularly collaborates with international institutions, bar associations, and universities across the globe, including Eötvös Loránd University in Hungary and Universidad del Norte in Colombia. Her career has also been marked by influential publications, including research on sports arbitration and the intersection of narcotrafficking and political crime in Colombia, reflecting her commitment to addressing complex issues at the intersection of law, politics, and global governance.
Paula’s professional journey is complemented by her passion for education, mentorship, and international collaboration. Whether training students in experiential arbitration practice, publishing research on evolving legal frameworks, or building partnerships between universities worldwide, she continues to shape the global legal landscape through her expertise, leadership, and dedication to justice.
• Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana- J.D.
• University of Miami School of Law- J.D.
• Colombo-America Chamber of Commerce
• Colbar (Colombian American Bar Association)
• Colbar (Colombian American Bar Association in Florida)
• Colbar (Colombian Bar Association)
• Charter Institute of Arbitrators
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a balance of teaching and practice—my 15 years as a faculty member and director at the University of Miami School of Law, combined with my legal work in international commercial transactions and arbitration in Colombia and Florida, have allowed me to grow through both scholarship and real-world experience.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that simplicity and clarity in arguments and communication are essential.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the legal industry is to speak up, work hard, and never be afraid to claim your place at the table.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are mentorship, making a meaningful impact in my students’ lives, and building strong, lasting relationships.