Arbitration is a mandatory but non-binding informal hearing where a neutral arbitrator, or panel of arbitrators, is selected to hear the evidence in your case. A mandatory arbitration hearing is a legal proceeding for certain types of civil cases where the plaintiff is asking for money damages only.The parties must submit the following documents to the arbitrator: i. The arbitration hearings will take place at the Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Center, 222 N. LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois. Ill. A sample petition to confirm an arbitration award under the Illinois Uniform Arbitration Act that may be used in Illinois circuit court. Oath of Office ā Pursuant to Illinois Supreme Court Rule 97(d), arbitrators are required to take an oath of office.