Mediation is a process of solving disputes with the guidance of a third party: a mediator. This method is the best and surest way couples can handle any disputes that they are having problems resolving. Mediation is preferable for families with children as this process attempts to accommodate each family’s individual needs and keeps kids from feeling like they have to choose sides. Couples may opt for mediation or it may be court ordered.
If an agreement is reached at the end of the mediation, the mediator prepares a written Settlement Agreement that is signed by both parties. That agreement is presented to the judge assigned to the case and a Final Judgment can then be entered.
With divorce cases in Florida, most, if not all, parties will go to mediation. Mediation can happen before filing for a divorce or during the litigation process in anticipation of the final hearing or trial. Parties can opt to participate in mediation before filing a lawsuit. If a full resolution is reached, then the agreement can be presented to the court and a Final Judgment entered without going through a costly and long litigation process.
Mediation is confidential, unlike court proceedings, which are part of the public record. With mediation, nothing is permitted to be repeated outside of the involved parties and their lawyers, unless, of course an agreement is reached. Once the agreement is complete, it is filed with the court and made part of a court record. Mediation typically helps resolve a conflict sooner rather than later and each party is given more control over the outcome of their settlement.
A Florida Supreme Court certified mediator will lead the mediation. Mediators must adhere to strict rules and regulations that require them to:
Mediation is cost effective and often preferred by couples looking to not stretch their wallets. The cost of mediation is divided equally between the parties (unless otherwise ordered by the judge or agreed upon by the parties).
Mary Zogg, formerly Mary Hoftiezer has a multidisciplinary background which helps to provide a unique experience for her clients. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Masters in Business Administration in addition to her law degree. This allows her to provide her clients with a full vision of the financial, emotional, and legal aspects of their cases.
Mary’s degree in psychology has provided her with the ability to listen and understand the emotional impact of a divorce or paternity action. She works to understand how you feel and takes these feelings into account when putting together a strategy as to how to resolve your case.
Read our informative Divorce and Family Law articles to help gain a perspective on various issues and the type of professional representation that we provide each of our clients.
There are a wide array of topics that range from child related issues, court order modifications, to geographic relocation with a minor child.
We hope you find our articles both helpful and ensightful.
View Video answers to Divorce and Family Law Questions.
We are often asked many questions regarding various issues relating to Divorce and Family Law.
We have put together video answers to many of these questions.
We hope you find our videoss both helpful and ensightful.
Serving the Divorce and Family Law Mediation needs of those in Central Florida including Orange County Florida, including: Orlando, Maitland, Apopka, Winter Park, Alafaya, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Bithlo, Christmas, Doctor Phillips, Eatonville, Edgewood, Fairway Shores, Goldenrod, Gotha, Hunter's Creek, Lake Buena Vista, Lockhart, Meadow Woods, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlovista, Pine Castle, Pine Hills, Southchase, South Apopka, Taft, Tangerine, Union Park, Wedgefield, Williamsburg, Windermere, Winter Garden, Zellwood, Osceola County Florida, including: Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Campbell, Celebration, Champions Gate, Deer Park, Four Corners, Harmony, Intercession City, Kenansville, Narc oossee, Poinciana, Reunion, Yeehaw Junction, Lake County Florida, including: Montverde, Clermont, Altoona, Astatula, Astor, Eustis, Ferndale, Fruitland Park, Grand Island. Groveland, Howey In The Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Mount Dora, Okahumpka, Paisley, Sorrento, Tavares, Umatilla, Yalaha.