Its purpose is to provide an incentive for the speedy, fair., and economical resolution of controversies by informal procedures while preserving the right to a conventional trial.
Parties retain the right for a trial de novo.
Cases in which parties voluntarily consent to arbitration do not relinquish their position on a judge's calendar with respect to trial date or hearing dates. The parties are encouraged to enter into an agreement between themselves that the arbitration be binding, or for other related matters. However, cases considered most appropriate are those in which a substantial amount of discovery has been completed and there are no dispositive motions pending. The Court will notify parties in appropriate civil cases about the availability of voluntary, arbitration at the time of filing and answer. In addition, the Court will systematically target some cases at certain stages of the litigation process to remind parties of the availability of voluntary, arbitration as well as other alternative dispute resolution programs.