http://www.courts.ca.gov/7260.htm?title=three

This rule provides that all civil cases where the amount in controversy is $50,000 or less must be arbitrated. Rule 3.811 includes cases exempt from arbitration (i.e. class actions, Family Law Act proceedings, and unlawful detainer proceedings). Rule 3.813 states the presiding judge must designate an ADR administrator who will supervise the selection of arbitrators and the operation of the program. Rule 3.814 states every court must have a panel of arbitrators for personal injury cases, and such additional panels as needed. The arbitration panels are made up of active or inactive members of the state bar. The rules also cover matters which can be stipulated by the parties, applicable rules of evidence and discovery procedures.