Can We Settle the Case Without Attending Mediation?
For a direct answer to the question, “Can we settle the case without attending mediation?” the answer is “yes.” Mediation, according to The Free Dictionary by Farlex, is “a settlement of a dispute or controversy by setting up an independent person between two contending parties in order to aid them in the settlement of their disagreements” For example, mediation is used in Family Law for such cases as dissolution of marriage (divorce), child support, parental timesharing, parenting plan, and modification of alimony, child support, and parental timesharing and parenting plan. In fact, in some states such as Florida, mediation is required in almost all jurisdictions before a court date before a judge can be set.
However, there are couples who are able to work out their issues without going to mediation or court. As much of a lawsuit is usually centered around disagreement, the ability to settle disputes and come to a mutual agreement is highly unlikely. But, it is possible when both parties agree completely to the final outcome and resolution of their problems. In Florida, a couple can agree on all issues in contention, put their decisions in writing; each provide an in-depth financial disclosure, and avoid mediation. A judge will read the agreement to be sure it is fair and does what it is designed to do before signing an order to accomplish the desired settlement. If there are minor children involved or a couple owns joint real estate, a simple resolution when it comes to the dissolution of marriage or matters involving the minor children is rarely finalized by agreement alone.
As with most matters involving the courts, avoiding mediation is best done with the help of a legal professional such as an attorney. There are still a number of areas that need to be negotiated correctly, and trying to do it entirely by oneself is most often unwise. If you live in Florida in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Miami-Dade, Broward, Hillsborough, or Orange County or New York or Washington, DC Attorney Grant Gisondo has over a decade of practice in Family Law and is highly knowledgeable in helping couples work through their issues without going to mediation or court. He offers a free, initial, in-office consultation where he will meet with you personally to answer questions and share with you how he can help. His office hours are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and, for new clients on Saturday from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM. If you would like to make an appointment to meet with Attorney Gisondo, you can call his office at (561) 530-4568.