FAQs About Divorce Mediation in Orlando

State law does not mandate all divorce cases to go through mediation although some counties do require it. In Orlando and surrounding counties, mediation is usually required for contested divorce cases in which the spouses cannot agree to all terms. Even when mediation is not required, it has many benefits for couples. Mediation is typically quicker, more affordable, and less combative than litigated divorces.

Still, the mediation process is often misunderstood by people going through a divorce. If you are about to go through the process, you likely have many questions. Below, our Orlando mediation lawyer provides the answers to the questions we most commonly hear.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a process that allows couples to meet with a neutral third-party mediator to resolve the issues in a divorce. Mediation is a non-adversarial process that fosters compromise and communication between disputing parties. The agreement reached in mediation remains confidential and allows both parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution that can be flexible and customized to the specific needs of each party.

Does the Mediator Make the Final Decision?

The role of a mediator is only to try and help the couple reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce. They do not make any final decisions and they cannot offer you legal advice throughout the process. Due to this, it is important to work with an Orlando mediation lawyer who can provide the legal guidance you need and ensure your rights are protected.

What Happens if an Agreement is Reached During Mediation?

Ideally, couples can agree to all of their issues during mediation, allowing them to finalize their divorce sooner. When a couple can reach an agreement on all terms during mediation, a written agreement is drafted. The agreement is submitted to the court for approval and after a judge approves it, they will issue orders reflecting the terms of the agreement.

What Happens if an Agreement is Not Reached During Mediation?

Sometimes a couple cannot reach an agreement at all during mediation. In other cases, a couple may agree to most of the terms but still disagree on one or two of them. In these cases, the couple will have to enter litigation to resolve these issues. During litigation, the judge will hear from both sides before making the final decision on the unresolved issues.

How Long Does Mediation Take? 

One of the biggest benefits of mediation is that it is much quicker than litigation. Mediation sessions typically last three to six hours, with breaks given as needed. Depending on the complexity of a case and the number of issues involved, mediation can take several weeks to months.

Do You Need a Mediation Lawyer in Orlando? 

You are not required to work with an attorney when going through mediation but it is strongly recommended. At Anderson & Ferrin, P.A., our Orlando mediation lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are upheld so you obtain the best settlement possible. Call us now at 407-412-7041 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal representation you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0044/0044.html