California Application For Family Division ADR Panel is a process that provides an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) option for family-related disputes in the state of California. This program is administered by the California Judicial Council and is available to all family courts in the state. The program offers three types of ADR panels: Mediation Panels, Arbitration Panels, and Special Masters or Referees Panels. Mediation Panels are composed of neutral third parties who help both sides of a dispute to work out a mutually acceptable resolution. Arbitration Panels are composed of a neutral arbitrator who hears both sides of a dispute, considers evidence, and issues a binding decision. Special Masters and Referees Panels are composed of an expert in a particular field, such as law or accounting, who is appointed to advise the court on a particular issue. All members of the panel must be qualified professionals with experience in family law.