New York Uniform Rule 202.5-b (Consensual Program) is a rule set out by the New York State Unified Court System that governs the use of consensual programs to resolve civil disputes without the need for a traditional trial. These programs are voluntary and involve a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations and help the parties reach an agreement. The most common types of consensual programs are mediation, arbitration, and collaborative dispute resolution. Under this rule, the parties must agree in writing to participate in one of these programs, and the court may also order the parties to participate. Both parties must also agree to the terms of the consensual program, including the selection of the neutral third party, the scope of the program, and the costs associated with the program.