There are different ways to resolve disputes at the Bet Din.  In a mediation, the parties meet with someone who can help guide them to a negotiated settlement.  If the parties reach an agreement, they then sign a settlement agreement which is legally binding. In a din torah, or arbitration, the parties agree to be bound by the decision of the Bet Din, hearings take place before the Bet Din, and the Bet Din issues a psak, or decision, that is legally binding.  It is also possible to sign an arbitration agreement that allows the parties to attempt mediation first and then, if no settlement is reached, arbitrate the case in a din torah.

You can request that the Bet Din send a summons (hazmana) to a defendant.  The Bet Din will typically send up to three hazmanot, following which the Bet Din, in its discretion, may issue a contempt decree (seruv).