Florida statutes define mediation as a process whereby a neutral third person called a mediator acts to encourage and facilitate the resolution of a dispute between two or more parties. It is an informal and nonadversarial process with the objective of helping the disputing parties reach a mutually acceptable and voluntary agreement.
There are some distinct advantages to reaching an agreement in mediation. Mediation facilitates an agreement reached by the parties rather than a decision made by the court. In that way, both parties are more likely to find the agreement satisfies their needs and concerns. When this is the case, the parties are more likely to abide by the agreement. An agreement reached in mediation can also be more closely tailored to the needs of the parties and family members. A judge will be limited by statutory guidelines, rules of evidence and case law when reaching a final judgment. A judge will be assigned to your case, but you can pick your mediator.
When you are involved in a family law matter, consult with your experienced family law attorney regarding mediation in your case. If you are in need of a family law attorney, contact Family Law of Orlando by email or by calling (407) 835-9900 to schedule an initial consultation with Attorney Wade P. Luther.