Most cases do, in fact, resolve at or before the mandatory settlement conference. The judge cannot make you settle your case, but most judges are highly persuasive in convincing parties of the wisdom of settling to avoid the uncertain results of litigation. But some cases actually do go to trial, and yours may be one of them. You can also waive your right to a jury trial and have the case heard and decided by a judge. It depends on who you ask.
Jury trials are longer, more complicated, and considerably more expensive than court trials.
On the other hand, some cases try better to a jury than to a judge. Regardless of whether you choose a jury or court trial, you can count on a lot of down time before you actually get to trial. Most judges in southern California handle hundreds of cases, and many may be set for trial on the same date. There's no guarantee you will get out when scheduled, a matter of considerable frustration to both the lawyers and the clients. Trial itself is similar regardless of whether by jury or by judge.