Mediation Prep
Cases settle at mediation. Preparation decides how well.
Florida family courts refer most contested cases to mediation before trial. The prepared party shapes the agreement; the unprepared party reacts to it.
Know the ground rules
- Mediation is confidential — offers made there generally can't be used in court later.
- The mediator is neutral: they broker agreement, they don't decide or give either side legal advice.
- Nothing binds you until it's signed. Anything signed binds you hard — read before signing, and this is THE moment for attorney review.
- Full or partial agreements both count: settling four of six issues shrinks the trial.
Bring the numbers, not vibes
- Financial affidavit numbers current and defensible.
- Child support scenarios pre-run — know what the guideline does at each realistic time-sharing split.
- The marital estate list: every asset and debt with a value and a proposed home.
- Arrears/payment math if support is already flowing.
The three-column worksheet
- Must-have: the short list you'd try the case over.
- Negotiable: what you can trade, and what you want back for it.
- Walk-away: what you will not sign, so you don't get worn into it at hour four.
- Fill it out when calm. Consult it when tired.
Parenting specifics to resolve
- School-year schedule, summer schedule, and every holiday by name.
- Exchange times, locations, and transportation.
- Decision-making by area, communication rules, travel notice.
- The parenting plan stress test is the agenda — bring your results.
Educational information, not legal advice and not negotiation strategy for your specific case. Signed mediation agreements are enforceable contracts — attorney review before signing is the cheapest insurance in family law.