While a Mediator does not make a final determination related to any of the pending case issues or final result - an Arbitrator renders an Arbitration award after a hearing (with less formalities than a final Court hearing / trial) where the current record evidence of the case is presented and legal arguments are made.  After the hearing, in most cases, the parties may submit additional materials / record evidence for the Arbitrator to review.  In a non-binding arbitration hearing, an award is entered and the parties may elect to accept the award or move for a trial do novo where the case will be decided by a Judge or Jury.  Arbitration hearings may also be binding, where the award is final.