—Referral of Cases to Arbi-

trators The court, on its own motion, may refer to an arbitrator any civil action in which, in the discretion of the court, the reasonable expectation of a judg- ment is less than $50,000, exclusive of interest and costs and in which a claim for a trial by jury and a certificate of closed pleadings have been filed. An award under this section shall not exceed $50,000, exclusive of legal interest and costs. Any party may petition the court to participate in the arbitration process hereunder. (P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 546N.) (Amended June 29, 1998, to take effect Jan. 1, 1999.)