Question 1

What happens in family mediation?

Accepted Answer

Family mediation gives you and the other party a structured place to talk through issues with a neutral mediator. I help keep the conversation balanced, focused, and productive so you can work toward workable agreements on the matters that affect your family.

Question 2

Why has the court ordered us to mediation?

Accepted Answer

In many contested Florida family law cases, the court requires the parties to participate in mediation before the case proceeds to trial. The purpose is to give both parties the opportunity to resolve some or all of their disagreements before asking a judge to decide those issues. Many families find that mediation gives them greater control over the outcome while often reducing the time, expense, and emotional strain associated with litigation.

Question 3

How are mediation fees handled?

Accepted Answer

If your case has been referred to mediation by the court, you may qualify for reduced court program rates based on your household's combined income. The First Judicial Circuit's eligibility criteria and fee schedule are available here. If you do not qualify for the court's reduced-fee program—or if you simply prefer to choose your own mediator—you may hire a private mediator directly. In that case, you pay the mediator rather than making payment through the court. When choosing a private mediator, look for someone who is certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Family Mediator. Certified mediators have a public certification number. For example, my certification number is #45827 F. A mediator does not have to be contracted with the court to handle your court-ordered case. If you qualify for the court's reduced-fee program, I honor those same rates in my private practice. If you do not qualify, I offer private mediation at competitive, transparent rates designed to make high-quality mediation accessible to as many families as possible.

Question 4

Can I choose my own mediator for a court-ordered case?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in many cases you may choose your own Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator instead of using the court's mediation program. While the judge orders the parties to attend mediation, the court does not necessarily require that mediation be conducted through its own program. If you are eligible for the special program rates, you will pay the fees to the court and must select from a short list of court-contracted mediators (see the list provided to you by the court clerk.)  As a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator (45827 F), I can conduct private mediation for court-ordered family cases as well as cases where couples choose mediation on their own before filing with the court. I am not contracted with the court but can mediate your case privately and will accept the special program rates you might otherwise receive by the court, if you are eligible. If you are not eligible for those special court program rates, I offer an affordable private rate. If you're unsure whether your case is eligible for private mediation, feel free to contact me. I'll explain your options and, if your case is one that must remain in the court's mediation program, I'll tell you that as well.

Question 5

What do you charge for family mediation?

Accepted Answer

If you are ineligible for court program income-based fees: $175/hourIf you are eligible for court program income-based fees, I will honor the current amount offered by the court.Pricing subject to change. Contact me for the most current rates.

Question 6

Is mediation confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Florida law generally protects the confidentiality of mediation. This allows both parties to have open and productive discussions without concern that their conversations will later be used against them in court, except in certain limited circumstances established by law.

Question 7

What can you expect during a mediation session?

Accepted Answer

During mediation, you can expect a calm, guided conversation about the issues you need to resolve. I help you stay on track, make room for both voices, and work through each topic one step at a time. The goal is to support clear communication and move toward agreement where possible.

Question 8

Do you decide who is right?

Accepted Answer

No. Mediation is not about determining who wins or loses, who is right or wrong, etc. My responsibility is to remain completely neutral while helping you both communicate more effectively, explore options, and work toward agreements that you both can accept.

Question 9

Will you tell us what the judge would do?

Accepted Answer

No. I cannot predict court outcomes or provide legal advice. As a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, my role is not to evaluate your case or tell either party what a judge may decide. What I can do is help both parties think through the practical implications of different options, ask questions that support productive discussion, and help identify issues that may benefit from legal guidance from an attorney.

Question 10

Can our attorneys attend mediation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Some clients attend mediation with attorneys. Others participate without attorneys. My role remains the same regardless. If attorneys are present, they continue to advise their clients while I facilitate the discussion between everyone involved.

Question 11

What if we don't agree on everything – or anything?

Accepted Answer

That's okay. Some mediations end with complete agreements, while others result in agreements on only a few issues. Every issue resolved during mediation is one less issue that may need to be addressed later. Even if issues go unresolved, the conversation often helps clarify priorities, improve communication, and uncover new perspectives or options that weren't previously considered. Meaningful progress doesn't always mean resolving every issue - it means moving the conversation forward in a productive way.

Question 12

What if we're very far apart on the issues?

Accepted Answer

People often begin mediation believing agreement is impossible. While no mediator can promise an agreement, productive conversations often become easier once the issues are organized and each person has an opportunity to fully explain their concerns. Even when disagreements remain, mediation frequently helps clarify priorities and narrow the issues.

Question 13

What if one person talks more than the other?

Accepted Answer

Every person communicates differently. Some people naturally process their thoughts by talking. Others prefer to think before responding. I create an environment where both individuals have the opportunity to participate fully and where each voice receives thoughtful attention.

Question 14

What if emotions become overwhelming?

Accepted Answer

Emotion – whether it comes in floods or spurts - is completely understandable. After all, family mediation often involves some of life's most personal and difficult conversations. My goal is to create a calm and open environment where difficult conversations can continue in a productive way; to do so sometimes necessitates small breaks so participants can gather their thoughts, take a few breaths, etc. If I sense a break is needed, I will propose it. If you need a moment, you can absolutely request it during our session

Question 15

What if we don't know where to begin?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to. Participants may arrive feeling overwhelmed because there are so many decisions to make. One of the advantages of mediation is having a third party to help clarify and then organize issues and topics which will then be discussed one at a time, making the process manageable.

Question 16

What issues can we discuss?

Accepted Answer

Essentially, we will discuss anything related to your case that is a point of disagreement between you and the other party. Topics might include but are not limited to: ·       Parenting Plans·       Time-sharing schedules·       Child support·       Alimony·       Division of assets and debts·       The marital home·       Future communication methods·       Decision-making for children·       Other issues unique to your family

Question 17

What happens if we reach an agreement?

Accepted Answer

When agreements are reached, I prepare a written Mediation Settlement Agreement and other addendums where needed (e.g., the Parenting Plan) outlining the terms that were agreed upon during mediation. If you both sign the agreement it can then be filed with the court. In cases where attorneys are involved, they may also draft the agreement.

Question 18

What happens if we don't reach an agreement?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes not every issue can be resolved in one session. If additional mediation would be helpful, another session may be scheduled. (Additional mediation would require additional fees.) If an agreement is not reached and neither believe future mediation will help, I will report that outcome to the court and your case will simply continue through the court process.If you end up somewhere in the middle, where you agree to some items, not others, I will report to the court that a partial agreeement was reached and your case will continue on.

Question 19

How long does a mediation session usually take?

Accepted Answer

Session length can vary based on the issues involved and how much needs to be discussed but are scheduled for three hours. Some matters move quickly, while others take more time. We’ll keep the pace steady and focused so you can make real progress without feeling rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions