Mediation

FAMILY LAW MEDIATION IN TAMPA BAY

When most people think of divorce, they have in mind a process where they let a judge decide how property is divided, where the kids sleep at night, and how much financial support is paid. But most families would be better off making these types of life-altering decisions on their own, rather than leave them up to an overworked public official. That is why Family Diplomacy offers private alternatives to litigation, including Collaborative Practice and mediation, which can be used in divorce, paternity, and other family law matters.

A VOLUNTARY DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW PROCESS

Mediation is a voluntary process where you and your spouse meet with a neutral and impartial professional who helps you reach an agreement. The mediator cannot decide issues or impose a settlement; a binding decision will be reached only if both parties agree on its terms. Further, mediation provides you with the flexibility to agree to terms that a judge would never order to meet the particular needs of your family.

DIVORCE WITH OR WITHOUT ATTORNEYS

Mediation can be done with attorneys or without attorneys, though Family Diplomacy strongly recommends that each party take any agreement to an attorney with Collaborative training to review it (you can find a list of locally trained Collaborative professionals at NextGenerationDivorce.com). You should note that when I serve as the mediator, I cannot provide either party with legal advice or answer legal questions. Additionally, mediation can be completed pre-suit, before any paperwork is filed with the Court, or after a case has already been initiated.

A CONFIDENTIAL DIVORCE PROCESS

Mediation is a confidential process where, with a few exceptions, what is said during the mediation meeting cannot be revealed to anybody else besides an attorney. Further, what is said during mediation cannot be used against you later in a court proceeding.

OPTIONS FOR OTHER EXPERTS

If you have a private business or complicated financial holdings, it may not be a bad idea to invite a neutral accountant or financial planner to the mediation. Moreover, if you have children, Family Diplomacy encourages you to consider having a neutral mental health professional involved in the mediation process to help with a parenting plan that meets your children’s emotional and developmental needs. Both spouses must agree to allow any expert or third party to participate. We are happy to provide you with recommendations for the appropriate professionals for your mediation process.

PARALEGAL DIVORCE MEDIATION

Beginning in August 2024, you can choose Family Diplomacy Executive Paralegal Jennifer Gunnin as your paralegal divorce mediator.  Jennifer has over a decade experience working with family law clients and has completed both a 40-hour mediation course and an Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Family Law Training.  Jennifer is the perfect fit as a cost-effective option for uncomplicated divorces with simple finances.

A SUPREME COURT CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW MEDIATOR FOR YOU

Attorneys Adam B. Cordover and Britney Penaherrera are both Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediators.  Adam or Britney can serve either as (i) a neutral mediator for both parties or (ii) an attorney representing one party at mediation. Adam brings his extensive experience in Collaborative Family Law, another form of private dispute resolution, to his mediation cases.  Britney brings her intellectual depth and creative problem-solving skills to her mediation cases.

MEDIATORS IN TAMPA, ST. PETERSBURG, AND SARASOTA

We accept virtual mediation cases throughout the State of Florida. With offices in Tampa, Sarasota, and Saint Petersburg, we offer in-person mediation throughout Tampa Bay and Greater Sarasota, including in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Hernando, Sarasota, and Manatee counties.

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