An arbitration hearing is a flexible process tailored to the parties' needs. It can involve written documents and arguments or live witnesses questioned by each side. Hearings are less formal than court, often held in boardrooms without observers. Participants dress in business attire, and the arbitrator is referred to by their last name. A court reporter may record live evidence. After the hearing or submission of written arguments, the arbitrator prepares a formal written decision called the arbitration award, which is legally binding. Family law arbitration can be an efficient, less stressful, and more private alternative to traditional court proceedings for settling disputes related to divorce, child custody, and support issues.