Pensacola Divorce Mediation Lawyers

Divorce & Family Law Mediation in Pensacola, FL

Though our Pensacola divorce mediation attorneys pride themselves on their trial advocacy skills, we are also proud of our negotiation skills outside the courtroom. We understand that settlement negotiations and mediation can be just as effective at reaching our clients’ legal objectives in divorce, paternity, and other family law cases to the best interest of the parties.

Mediation is a new concept for most of our clients. However, in almost every family law proceeding, the Pensacola court will require the parties to participate in mediation. The courts require the parties to participate typically because most cases can be resolved at mediation. The goal of mediation is to allow the parties to create settlement negotiations in a positive environment geared toward resolving the dispute. A certified mediator facilitates the negotiation process and uses his or her extensive knowledge of dispute resolution to help the parties express their litigation goals to the adverse party.

Consult a Pensacola divorce mediation attorney today! Call 800-822-5170 or send us an email to get started.

What is Mediation?

Divorce mediation in Florida is a process in which a neutral third-party mediator helps divorcing couples negotiate and reach agreements on various issues such as property division, child custody, child support, and alimony. Unlike a court proceeding, mediation is a more informal and collaborative way to resolve disputes. The mediator does not make decisions for the couple but facilitates communication and helps them find mutually acceptable solutions.

How Divorce Mediation Works in Pensacola

Florida statutes govern all mediations in Florida family law cases and the mediator is there to ensure each rule is adhered to. Some examples are as follows:

• Be neutral- the mediator and the mediation process should be conducted without any bias toward either party
• The mediator should not force the parties to reach an agreement
• Mediation is always to be conducted in a manner that focuses on the mutual good of the parties

Our Pensacola family law mediation lawyers’ goals for mediation mirror the goals of the mediators – to generate a constructive environment that promotes open dialogue between the parties regarding potential resolution of the case. In order to promote this type of environment, the legislature has determined that all communications during mediation are to remain confidential among the parties and cannot be disclosed outside the mediation, especially to the court.

If a settlement agreement is reached by the parties at mediation, then the mediator and your attorney will draw up a settlement agreement at mediation. The agreement will be signed by all parties, then filed with the court shortly thereafter. The Pensacola court must review the settlement agreement to ensure all statutory requirements have been met before issuing a final judgment. But once the review is complete, the judge will enter a final judgment accepting the terms of the settlement thus resolving the matter and closing the case.

Benefits of Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation offers several benefits that can make the process smoother and less stressful for both parties. Here are the key advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Mediation is typically less expensive than going through a litigated divorce. Since mediation avoids court fees and reduces attorney involvement, couples can save on legal costs.
• Faster Resolution: Mediation often leads to a quicker resolution compared to the traditional divorce process. Rather than waiting for court dates, couples can work at their own pace and resolve issues more efficiently.
• Control and Flexibility: In mediation, both parties have more control over the outcome. Couples can craft customized solutions that work for their unique situation, unlike in court, where a judge makes the final decisions.
• Less Stressful and Contentious: Mediation is a more amicable process, encouraging collaboration and reducing conflict. It can help preserve relationships, which is especially important when children are involved.
• Privacy: Mediation sessions are confidential, while court proceedings are public. This allows couples to keep their personal matters private.
• Better Co-Parenting Outcomes: For couples with children, mediation fosters a cooperative approach, which can lead to better co-parenting relationships. By working together, parents can focus on their children’s best interests and create a parenting plan that suits both parties.
• Preserves Emotional Well-being: By promoting communication and compromise, mediation can reduce the emotional toll that often accompanies divorce, helping both parties move forward more peacefully.

Contact a Pensacola Divorce Mediation Lawyer for a Consultation

Our Pensacola divorce mediation attorneys have extensive training and experience negotiating terms outside of the courtroom that ultimate result in our clients’ best interests. We have participated in countless mediations throughout Florida Panhandle, achieving great success for our clients.

Call our office today to schedule a consultation with one of our divorce mediation attorneys in Pensacola.