Frequently Asked Questions
Families often have questions about how family mediation works in Florida, including confidentiality, cost, timelines, and how mediation fits alongside the court process. The answers below provide general, process-based information.
Below are common ones, explained clearly and respectfully.
What is family mediation?
Family mediation in Florida is a structured, confidential process where a neutral mediator facilitates conversation so participants can work through important decisions.
The mediator does not take sides, give legal advice, or make decisions. Participants remain in control of whether they reach agreements and what those agreements include.
How is mediation different from going to court?
In court, a judge makes decisions. In mediation, participants make their own decisions.
Mediation is private, conversation-based, and focused on working through issues in a practical, structured way rather than litigation.
Do I need a lawyer to participate in mediation?
No. Participants may attend with attorneys, without attorneys, or consult an attorney before or after mediation.
The mediator does not provide legal advice or legal representation.
How long does mediation take?
Every situation is different. Some participants address all of their topics in a single mediation session, while others choose to schedule additional sessions. The pace is determined by the participants, the topics being discussed, and the decisions that need to be made.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Mediation in Florida is generally confidential under Florida law and the mediation agreement, with limited exceptions.
Confidentiality is reviewed at the start of the process so expectations are clear before discussions begin.
What happens if participants reach an understanding?
If participants reach shared understandings, the terms may be summarized in writing.
Participants may choose to have those terms reviewed by independent attorneys and, if applicable, submitted to the court through the proper legal process.
What if we don’t reach full resolution?
Full resolution is not required.
Mediation can still help clarify priorities, narrow issues, and improve communication—even if only part of the matter is resolved.
What does mediation cost?
My Fair Mediation offers flat-fee mediation packages designed to provide upfront clarity regarding cost. Many participants prefer knowing the fee before the process begins rather than tracking hourly billing throughout mediation.
What’s included in a flat-fee mediation package?
The Family Mediation Package includes an initial consultation, preparation guidance, administrative coordination and scheduling, up to three hours of mediation, documentation of agreements reached during mediation, and one revision round if needed.
What happens if more mediation time is needed?
Some participants choose to schedule additional mediation sessions if there are remaining topics to discuss or additional decisions to work through. Additional sessions are available for a separate flat fee and can be scheduled as needed.
Is flat-fee mediation available for pro se participants?
Yes. Flat-fee mediation is available whether participants are representing themselves, working with attorneys, or using a combination of both. Participation in mediation does not require legal representation.
Still Have Questions?
It’s normal to have questions before getting started. Schedule an orientation call to learn how mediation works and whether it’s appropriate for your situation.
