LMAR 1.1
            APPLICATION OF RULES- PURPOSE AND DEFINITIIONS


 (a)  Purpose.  The purpose of mandatory arbitration of civil actions
 under RCW 7.06 as implemented by the Mandatory Arbitration rules is to
 provide a simplified and economical procedure for obtaining the prompt
 and equitable resolution of disputes involving claims of $50,000.00 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 unless stipulated to in
 writing by the parties or otherwise ordered by the court.  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 exercise that
 discretion.  Arbitration hearings should be informal and expeditious,
 consistent with the purpose of the statutes and rules.
 (b)      Administration.  The arbitration department shall consist of
 the County Clerk, the Court Administrator or Assistant Court
 Administrator, or such other person designated by the Superior Court
 Judges.  The arbitration department shall supervise arbitration under
 these rules and perform any additional duties, which may be delegated.


 [Adopted effective November 6, 1992; Amended effective October 1,
 1994, amended effective September 1, 2007]