A. The judge may refer small claims cases to an attorney at law who shall serve as arbitrator provided the parties agree to be bound by his arbitration. An attorney at law so appointed by the judge shall conduct the proceedings in the manner described in R.S. 13:5208(A), and, if authorized by rule of court, he may be entitled to reasonable compensation for his services to be paid from court funds if available.
B. The arbitrator's decision shall be reduced to writing and shall be final and binding upon all parties. Upon ex parte motion of any party, judgment may be granted in accordance with the arbitration award.