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.
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​​​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.
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Where are the mediation conferences conducted?​
Because we conduct our mediation conferences virtually, we are prepared to mediate any case throughout the state.
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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.
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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.
