Ohio Revised Code Title XXI. Courts Probate Juvenile § 2117.09

If an executor or administrator doubts the justice of any claim presented against the estate the executor or administrator represents, the executor or administrator may enter into an agreement in writing with the claimant to refer the matter in controversy to three disinterested persons, who shall be approved by the probate judge.

Upon filing the agreement of reference in the probate court of the county in which the letters testamentary or of administration were issued, the judge shall docket the cause and make an order referring the matter in controversy to the referees selected.

The referees shall proceed to hear and determine the matter and make their report to the court. The referees shall have the same powers and be entitled to the same compensation and the same proceedings shall be followed as if the reference were made under the provisions for arbitrations under a rule of the court of common pleas. The court may set aside the report of the referees, appoint others in their places, or confirm the report and adjudge costs as in actions against executors and administrators. The judgment of the court shall be valid and effectual.