Mediation
Occasionally, problems arise that may require mediation to resolve. We recognize that sometimes you need a neutral third party to listen to all sides of an issue and work with all parties to reach a favorable resolution, thereby avoiding expensive and prolonged litigation. Mediation is a way to reach a mutually agreeable resolution rather than receiving an order from the court. Typically, such an agreement is more acceptable to both parties, which is why it is often in your best interest to attempt mediation first.
The Mediation Process
Mediation is voluntary, and either party may walk away at any time and move the process to the courtroom. Parties may represent themselves or attend with or through counsel. Mediation may require one short session, or it may take a number of meetings to come to an agreement. During the process, both sides will present their desired outcomes to the mediator. The mediator will ask questions and ask for any information needed to help them navigate the parties toward a mutually acceptable agreement.
Unlike in court, the mediator does not make a ruling or judgment. Instead, they help facilitate a conversation. They may make suggestions for possible ways to approach and resolve the pending issues by bringing an outside perspective to the negotiations. The mediator’s job is to help the parties come to an agreement that both can accept. All parties should leave mediation feeling like they came to the best agreement possible without the stress and expense of a trial.
You are in control of the dispute resolution in mediation. Parties decide whether they want to resolve their dispute and/or how much can be resolved via mediation. It is a means of saving time, money, and narrowing any outstanding triable issues for the court. In order to be most effective, mediation does require the full cooperation of all parties involved. It is important that you provide any requested information as quickly as possible and that you are honest with the mediator.
Contact us to coordinate or schedule a mediation.
Our Mediation Services
Mediation at Romaine & Nugent is led by Laurel Nugent. She is a Florida Supreme Court certified county mediator with years of experience who will work with the parties to reach a mutually agreeable settlement. Our areas of focus include contract disputes, condominium and homeowner’s association disputes, landlord/tenant matters, and small claims.