An arbitration is like a "mini" trial where the parties are usually represented by attorneys, but, a third party, an arbitrator, will ultimately decide the dispute.  It is unlike a trial in that, in arbitration, you are rarely if ever in a courtroom, and although evidence is taken under oath like a trial, it is usually streamlined because the rules of evidence are relaxed and certain court procedures are less formal.  Arbitrations are sometimes subject to "Mandatory Arbitration Rules" and sometimes are subject to the rules set forth by the individual arbitrator.  Under Washington State law, in some cases, arbitration is binding and a party has waived all their appeal rights.  In other cases, under Washington State Law, an arbitration decision may be appealed to the Superior Court, the Court of Appeals and to the Supreme Court just like a decision made by a court commissioner or in a lower court.  A TLC attorney can let you know what rights you have if you are subject to an arbitration clause.

Counseling is a form of alternative dispute resolution that involves a mental health professional.  Usually, when counseling is elected as a form of dispute resolution, the parties have designated an agreed counselor with whom they have had a prior relationship.  Agreements reached in counseling are often similar to agreements reached in mediation, except, because such agreements are often drafted by non attorneys, it is advisable to have your agreement ultimately reviewed by and approved by an attorney to insure that agreements are understandable and enforceable in court.  An agreement that is not enforceable is just a waste of time.  A TLC attorney can assist you in ensuring that the spirit of your agreement is contained within the body of the agreement.