LMAR 1.1
                APPLICATION OF RULES - PURPOSE AND DEFINITIONS


    The purpose of mandatory arbitration of civil actions under RCW 7.06 as
implemented by the Superior Court Mandatory Arbitration Rules (MAR) is to
provide a simplified and economical procedure for obtaining the prompt and
equitable resolution of disputes involving claims of $50,000 or less.  Claims
in which the sole relief sought is the establishment, modification, or
termination of maintenance or child support payments shall not be subject to
mandatory arbitration.  The Mandatory Arbitration Rules as supplemented by
these local rules are not designed to address every question which may arise
during the arbitration process, and the rules give considerable discretion to
the arbitrator.  The arbitrator should not hesitate to be informal and
expeditious, consistent with the purpose of the statue and rules.


Adopted effective September 1, 2011