Mediation (also known as “dispute resolution” or “settlement conference”) helps parties to avoid the need for a trial, which can be expensive, contentious, and emotionally draining. Even if you manage to only partially settle, the savings effect to your litigation budget can be significant. Because of this, mediation is required in almost all cases prior to being able to schedule a hearing.
Mediation allows the parties to make their own decisions about their family’s future, rather than leaving it to a judge. Since it is a confidential process, the parties are free to make offers that the Court will not know about unless an agreement is reached. The meeting is conducted with a Florida certified family law mediator, the parties, and their attorneys. The mediator has no decision making authority; rather, their role is to facilitate a settlement by encouraging discussion and diffusing conflict so that offers can be heard and fairly considered.
The attorneys are present to guide their respective clients through the process, to advise as to the law, and to otherwise ensure their client is reaching a fair agreement. Once executed, a mediation agreement is binding, and one cannot simply change their mind. Thus, it is imperative that you have the guidance of a professional working for you during the mediation process. The mediator will not be that person, as they cannot give you legal advice or tell you whether you are making the right decision.
The professionals at Heskin Martinez Law Group have been utilizing this process for over 30 years. We encourage clients to resolve their issues through settlement, if at all possible, but are ready to take the matter to trial and have extensive courtroom and litigation experience. A good attorney will let you know when you need to walk away from a deal, and when it is in your best financial and personal interest to consider a settlement.
Questions about Mediation? Call us at 407-403-5990 or contact us (below) schedule your appointment. And if you are in need of a family law mediator, call us at 407-403-5990 or contact us (below) schedule your mediation with either Keersten Heskin Martinez, Esq. or Lisa Smith Bedwell, Esq.