About Mediation
Mediation is a process where conflicting parties come together in a controlled and comfortable setting and with the help of a neutral party (mediator), discuss those issues that need to be resolved. This is a voluntary process which is confidential, and in many cases, brings positive solutions that results in a better understanding by all.
We are now mediating by Telephonic & Video Conference (ZOOM & WebEx) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unlike litigation, in mediation, both parties usually come away with positive results. And unlike litigation, where a Judge decides the case, in Mediation it is the parties who shape and decide the outcome!
Additionally, in mediation, we work independently of an already overcrowded court schedule. So, we can help resolve your situation faster.
We can come to your office, or parties are always welcome to use our office.
Here are some often asked questions about mediation.
Click on any questions for suggested answers.
How long does Mediation last?
This will depend on how complex your issues are and how fast each party can reach an acceptable solution. Most mediations are scheduled for 1 or 2 hours, while many divorce or complex business mediations can last an entire day.
There are times when it’s best to meet in more than one session.
Do I need to hire an attorney to mediate or get a divorce?
The simple answer is, no.
Many folks know what they want and are able to make their own decisions regarding mediation and their divorce. You will have to file your paper work with the courts, but we are here to help you resolve any issues that you might have.
I’m going through a divorce and we already know how we want to settle our issues. Can Mediation Services just help us write up the Settlement Agreement & work out the Child Support figures?
Absolutely. Many of our clients have most to their issues worked out and only need some help on a few issues and in preparing an agreement that they will file with the court. We also use the same software as the court to calculate Child Support, if needed.
I don’t know if I need a mediator or an attorney. Can Mediation Services provide both of these services for me?
The simple answer is, No. While Ms. Telford is a very fine attorney, the FL Supreme Court says that she can provide the services as either an attorney or a mediator, but not both. And to avoid any “conflicts of interest issues” you cannot hire Ms. Telford as an attorney and Mr. Kettring as a mediator, in the same case.
We will be happy to discuss your needs and help you choose which service is right for you.
Just give us a call (941) 957-3004!
We work during the week and it’s difficult to get off work. Can we mediate after work or on the weekend?
Absolutely. At Mediation Services we understand your busy schedule, and will set up your mediation at a time and on a day that fits your schedule! Unlike the court, you tell us when it’s best to schedule your mediation, and we’ll accommodate your needs! Also, we won’t charge you any additional fees for after-hour or weekend mediation appointment.
What if we meet in Mediation and don’t resolve all of our issues?
This can happen. Mediation is confidential and you don’t give up any of your rights by meeting with the other party at mediation. Also, there may be some issues that need some additional time to be resolved. At times parties will reach a “partial agreement” and schedule another mediation at a later date, to resolve the remaining issues.
My spouse and I don’t really get along together. Do we have to meet in the same room?
No, quite often times we hold mediations with the disputing parties in separate rooms. For your comfort and security, we have multiple meeting rooms, and if long distances are involved, we can even teleconference the meetings.
Can I bring my Attorney for advice or a friend for moral support?
If you have an attorney you should talk with them before you schedule the mediations, and decide if your attorney will attend the mediation. In many cases we are actually hired by attorneys to help resolve their cases.
And, as long as the opposing party doesn’t mind, you can bring a friend or relative for support. If the other party objects, you cannot. It is best if you check in advance with the other party.
Wouldn’t it be easier, faster and cheaper to just file my case in Small Claims Court?
Probably not. Most cases that are filed in our courts typically take 60 to 90 days (or longer) before they can be heard by a Judge. There are filing fees of about $225+ that must to be paid when the case is filed, not to mention any cost to hire an attorney.
How much does Mediation cost?
That’s the best part. You will only be billed for the actual time your mediation takes and to write up the agreement. Our rates start at only $250 per hour, and this is usually shared (divided) between the parties. And we also offer “all day” plans, too.
With mediation you only pay for the time you use. All fees are due at the end of the mediation.
Can I charge my mediation?
Absolutely. We accept most Major Credit Cards, Checks and even Paypal.
We realize that in our present economy, money is tight – for everyone, especially for folks going through a divorce or foreclosure. We’ll be happy to work with you, just give us a call.
