Some advantages to mediation are that it is less expensive and more expeditious than litigation, it provides the parties the opportunity to settle their case on their own terms, and it permits the parties to be flexible and creative in formulating solutions. Mediation provides the parties control over the outcome of their case (and lives) as opposed to a judge who may not fully understand the parties' circumstances and/or special needs. Most circuits in Florida require parties to mediate prior to going to trial. This is both beneficial to the parties and to the overloaded court system.
Mediation is where both parties meet with a non-biased mediator in a neutral setting (outside of a courtroom), where they can discuss the terms of the divorce and come to an agreement without the need for a judge. The process of mediation empowers the parties to the divorce (rather than a judge) to take charge of how they will structure their families, finances and lives after the divorce. The rules regarding family court mediation in Florida are set forth in Florida Rules of Family Law Procedure 12.740 and 12.741. Family court mediation helps a contested divorce resolve issues more quickly and with less cost. Even though you are not going to court, you still need the services of an experienced family law attorney to assist you.