In some states, however, a court may order you to try arbitration or mediation. Some companies require consumers to arbitrate their disputes and waive their right to go to court. Check your contract or product packaging for details. Either may take place in person, by phone, or by video conferencing. In some cases, you'll begin with mediation, and if no decision is reached, you'll progress to arbitration.
Many programs offer lists of neutral third parties from which to choose.
Be aware that your ADR provider or your state may have ethics rules for third parties to assure impartiality. For example, the third party cannot get personally involved in the dispute or benefit from the resolution. Ask the the program administrator for a copy of the rules. Find out if the program guarantees confidentiality. If confidentiality is important to you, make sure you get the specifics before committing to the program.