Alternative Dispute Resolutions
Helping You Resolve Conflicts
What are they and how can you use them?
“Mediation” involves 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 non-adversarial 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 assisting the parties in identifying issues, fostering joint problem solving, and exploring settlement alternatives.
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In marked contrast, under Florida law, “Arbitration” means a process whereby a neutral third person or panel, called
an arbitrator or arbitration panel, considers the facts and arguments presented by the parties and renders a decision which may be binding or nonbinding based on the parties’ agreement.
Why should I mediate my dispute?
Some of the benefits of mediation include:
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The parties alone control the process; they decide whether to resolve the dispute;
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The parties are not stuck with decisions by the judge or jury;
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The parties are heard by a neutral third party;
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Mediation can facilitate direct communications between the parties;
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Mediation provides an earlier opportunity to resolve disputes;
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The parties fashion their own remedies and are not necessarily bound by what a judge or jury would do;
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Mediation presents an opportunity to save costs;
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Mediation presents an opportunity to explore and evaluate the strengths and theories of each party’s case;
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Mediation allows the parties to resolve some issue and therefore streamline any trial which requires the resolution of purely legal issues; and
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Mediation is an informal process.
Where are the mediation conferences conducted?
Because we conduct our mediation conferences virtually, we are prepared to mediate any case throughout the state.
What are our objectives as the mediator?
Our objective is to empower parties to find individualized, creative solutions that address their specific needs. As the mediator, we aim to understand the parties’ differing points of view.
How can I schedule a mediation conference?
On our website, you can schedule a conference directly on our calendar. Our calendar reflects our available dates and times.
