Divorce Mediation - Mediation Agreements

Intro to Divorce Mediation

   Mediation is a required step in divorces for Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, Pasco County, Hernando County, and most other counties in Florida.  Mediation is a meeting, at the courthouse or some other location.  The following people are the only participants in a divorce mediation:

•   You
•   Your divorce attorney
•   Your spouse
•   Your spouse's divorce attorney
•   A neutral mediator

   There is no judge.  There is no court reporter.  There are no bailiffs or other court personnel.  Even though divorce mediation is required by the court, everything thing that happens at mediation is confidential.  In other words, as long as you show up for mediation, nothing that happens at the meeting can be presented to the judge.  The process is completely confidential.

What is a Mediator?  

   A mediator is a neutral person, often appointed by the court.  They are specifically trained in mediation and certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a family law mediator.  Some mediators are licensed attorneys.  Some are not attorneys but have masters degrees in counseling.

The goal of mediation for Divorce

To produce a negotiated agreement that will bring the divorce to a fast end. 

   Other than showing up - you have absolutely no obligation to agree or disagree to anything in a mediation session.  You can arrive, talk for 5 minutes, and then declare that any agreement is impossible.

Divorce mediation is an opportunity - Not a burden

    There is a very good reason why the courts require mediation.  The reason - because it works.  Far more cases settle at mediation than the ones that do not settle.  It is a great opportunity for you to weigh the pros and cons of fighting out your case.  On one hand, you may get more money in a final trial. On the other hand, you may spend much more on lawyers, and make yourself emotionally miserable by fighting it out.

 

The Bottom Line for Divorce Mediation: 

   Mediation is an opportunity to settle your case early in the process.  You will save emotional energy and money.  Early settlement is better for your children.  And most important - an early settlement allows you to move on to your new future life. Your best bet: approach mediation as if it is the most important part of your case.  In many instances - it is the most important part.

 

Certified Mediator / Divorce Attorney

   This website was personally written by Divorce Attorney Howard Iken.  As a Supreme Court Certified Mediator and a Florida Divorce Attorney, Mr. Iken is involved with mediation for divorce several times a week.  Mediation in Florida divorce cases is very effective.  Approximately 90% or more of divorce cases settle at mediation.  We are available to represent you in your divorce mediation, or serve as your mediator.  Also check out our Divorce Mediation website.

Divorce can be the single most important event in your life.  Make sure you gather lots of information so you can make informed decisions.  Many people can benefit from the advice of a good, honest, loyal divorce attorney.  The Divorce Center can provide a divorce attorney that can help you protect yourself.  A lawyer is not an expense in a divorce case - they are an investment. We help clients in Hernando County, Pasco County, Pinellas County, and Hillsborough County. Our service area includes Tampa, Clearwater, Largo, New Port Richey, Brooksville, Dade City, and the New Tampa area. CONTACT US NOW or call 888-469-3486