Mediation is a dispute resolution process that allows people to settle their cases. To be exact, it is defined in Section 44.1011, Florida Statutes, as follows:

"'Mediation' means 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. In mediation, decision making authority rests with the parties. The role of the mediator includes, but is not limited to, assisting the parties in identifying issues, fostering joint problem solving, and exploring settlement alternatives."

Mediation conferences can be held virtually via zoom, which has shown to be very effective. This format sometimes causes the participants to be more focused than if they had met in person. We use caucus rooms and generally have many tools available to promote a successful mediation. When meeting in person, I have two office available for mediation conferences, one located in Coral Gables and the other in the Palmetto Bay area.

FAMILY MEDIATION

I am a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator since 2001 and I serve as a neutral professional assisting the parties in reaching their agreement. For anyone getting involved in a dissolution of marriage, the process can be difficult and confusing. Knowing your options is important. A short introduction to family mediation is provided when a telephone call is made to my office inquiring about the mediation process. Information empowers people to make informed decisions about the process that may be best for them.

Family mediation cases involve dissolutions of marriage, paternity, parenting plans, enforcement and modification, and premarital agreements, and the various issues related to these matters. The parties can participate in the mediation conferences with just the parties present, known as a pro se mediation, or it can include one or more attorneys at the mediation conference representing the parties. With a pro se mediation, it is recommended to consult with an attorney as to one's legal rights as the mediation proceeds. Once a mediation agreement is fully signed, one of the spouses would file an uncontested dissolution of marriage action in the Court and the agreement would be presented to the Court to become part of the final judgment of dissolution of marriage.

CIVIL MEDIATION

I am a Florida Supreme Court Certified Civil Mediator since 2001. An amicable resolution is the more constructive and smart way to conclude disputes, even the most heated of disputes.

My civil mediation practice includes matters between parties, whether individuals, businesses, estates, trusts, or any entity that is bringing or defending a claim. The goal of the mediation is for the parties to reach a written agreement resolving the issues between them.

Please contact me for more information and to schedule a mediation.