The arbitrator can view a written statement from a witness unable to attend only if all parties agree. In North Carolina, arbitration may either be binding or non-binding.In some cases, parties voluntarily agree to arbitrate their dispute. Preparing for a courtordered arbitration? The arbitrator may arrange a mediation conference under principles stated in the North Carolina District Court and Superior Court mediation statutes and rules. The parties must file dismissals or consent judgments prior to the scheduled hearing to close the case without a hearing. For this reason, businesses often prefer to arbitrate their disputes, and include arbitration provisions in their contracts. What is forced arbitration? Forced arbitration clauses are hidden in the fine print of agreements. The Uniform Arbitration Act does not embrace agreements to arbitrate disputes which may arise between the parties in the future.