This program is designed to provide for non-binding arbitration of civil cases that are filed in North Carolina's courts and that involve a claim for $15,000 or less (there are a few case types excepted from arbitration). (This program should not be confused with private arbitration (arbitration held outside the court system) or the arbitration option available under the superior court's Mediated Settlement Conference Program Rules.) Support for the Court Ordered Arbitration Program is provided by the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). Those with questions about how to become qualified to serve as a district court arbitrator or about how the program operates, should address their questions to DeShield Smith at (919) 890-1211 or DeShield.Smith@aoc.nccourts.org. To learn more about the Court Ordered Arbitration Program, please click here.