What happens after the arbitrator issues a decision — is it final?

The arbitrator’s decision in Florida court-ordered non-binding arbitration becomes final only if no party objects and files a request for a trial de novo within 20 days of the decision. If a party timely requests a trial de novo, the case proceeds toward trial as though the arbitration decision had not been rendered. The decision is sealed and is not disclosed to the trial judge. If, on the other hand, no party rejects the decision and requests a trial de novo within the required time, the decision is referred to the presiding judge, who enters orders and judgment to carry it out. Any party may force the trial to take place by timely requesting a trial de novo. A non-objecting party cannot prevent an objecting party from moving the case forward to trial.