A non-judicial procedure for resolving conflicts. Arbitrations can be binding or non-binding.  Parties to a dispute may mutually agree to submit the case to arbitration rather than a trial. Many contracts and CC&Rs contain mandatory arbitration clauses that require the parties to submit to arbitration. The arbitrator is a neutral third party, typically a retired judge or an attorney, who conducts the arbitration, hears the evidence and makes a decision, in the place of a judge and/or jury. Arbitrations can be less complicated and costly than a trial, but there is no appeal from the decision of an arbitrator unless the agreement specifies the right to an appeal. An arbitration award is entered as a judgment and is enforceable by the courts.