Learn Center · Where most Florida family cases actually end

Mediation & Conflict Resolution

Florida courts refer most contested family cases to mediation before trial — a confidential, mediator-brokered negotiation with safety screening built into the rules.

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Mediation is confidential; offers made there generally cannot be used in court later. Nothing binds until signed — and signed agreements bind hard.

The rules condition mediation and parenting-coordination referrals on safety: histories of domestic violence and circumstances compromising the process are screening criteria, not afterthoughts (Rules 12.740–12.742).

Preparation is leverage: the party with organized numbers, pre-run support scenarios, and a must-have / negotiable / walk-away sheet shapes the deal.

Frequently asked — Florida answers

Is mediation required before trial?

Courts commonly order mediation of contested issues (§ 61.183 and case-management rules) — subject to the safety-screening exceptions in the rules.

What is collaborative divorce?

Florida's Collaborative Law Process Act (in Chapter 61) creates a voluntary, team-based settlement process where both sides commit not to litigate with those lawyers. It suits parties wanting privacy and control; it is not for every case, and attorney involvement is inherent to it.

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