CA Civ Proc Code Section 1141.12

In all superior courts, the Judicial Council shall provide by rule for a uniform system of arbitration of the following causes:

(a)

Any cause, regardless of the amount in controversy, upon stipulation of the parties.

(b)

Upon filing of an election by the plaintiff, any cause in which the plaintiff agrees that the arbitration award shall not exceed the amount in controversy as specified in Section 1141.11.