Alaska Domestic Relations: Informal vs. Formal Trial is a process that determines the outcome of cases involving family law matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and other related issues. In Alaska, these cases can be resolved either through an informal trial, which is an out-of-court process, or through a formal trial, which is a court proceeding. In an informal trial, the parties involved in the dispute meet to discuss their issues and attempt to reach a settlement without the involvement of a court. The parties may participate in mediation, in which a third-party mediator helps them reach an agreement. If an agreement is not reached, the case may be referred to arbitration, in which a third-party arbitrator makes a decision on the case. In a formal trial, the issues are presented to a judge, who makes a decision based on the evidence presented by the parties. The judge may also hear witness testimony and consider expert testimony before making a ruling. Types of Alaska Domestic Relations: Informal Trial include mediation and arbitration. Types of Alaska Domestic Relations: Formal Trial include litigation, trial, and appeal.