The Marion County Court has adopted several mediation and arbitration programs to improve public service. Mediation provides a forum for parties to settle their differences amicably, without the cost, emotional drain and publicity of a court trial. Arbitration allows the parties to have disputes heard more quickly and informally, reducing costs for all involved. Most cases are settled through mediation, arbitration, negotiation or a settlement conference with a judge, before a judge has to hold a trial. This results in faster resolution of all court cases because there is more room on the court's calendar to hear and decide cases.
Arbitration is similar to litigation although it is less formal.
There is no jury. The case is decided by an arbitrator selected by the parties. The parties are responsible for paying the arbitrator's fee, and have to pay a portion of the overall cost prior to meeting with the arbitrator. The arbitrator will make findings and issue a binding award. A party can appeal an arbitration award and have the case decided by a judge or jury, but may be responsible for paying additional costs if the appeal does not result in a more favorable outcome.