The filing of such a motion on or after the date of the judge's order will not, however, stay the arbitration hearing unless the judge so orders. The parties are not required to submit any materials. The court notifies parties of the date and time of the hearing in the notice of referral to arbitration. The hearing must be scheduled to take place within 120 days of the filing of the answer but must not, unless the parties consent otherwise, be held until thirty days after disposition of dispositive motions or motions to join parties. Parties may agree to an earlier date for the hearing.
Most hearings take place within twelve months of the answer.
Arbitration hearings are held at the courthouse before a single arbitrator unless the parties request three. Logistical arrangements are made by the court staff. P. 45 applies to subpoenas for attendance of witnesses and production of documentary evidence. Testimony is under oath. The Federal Rules of Evidence are used as guides to the admissibility of evidence.