Divorce Mediation in Miami-Dade

Mediation is a process where a neutral third person, called a mediator, helps two spouses try to reach an agreement. The mediator does not take sides and does not decide the case. Instead, the mediator helps the couple talk through the issues and look for solutions they can both accept.

Many divorce and family law matters in Florida move through some form of mediation before a judge decides anything. In Miami-Dade County, mediation is a common step in family cases, and a local family law firm can explain how it fits into your situation.

Under Florida Statutes section 44.102, in a circuit with an established family mediation program a court will refer contested parental-responsibility, time-sharing, and related issues to mediation once it finds a dispute, with an exception where a history of domestic violence would compromise the process. Miami-Dade, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, has an established Mediation and Arbitration Division, and judges here routinely order contested family matters to mediation before setting a trial date.

In a typical session, each spouse has a chance to describe what matters most to them. The mediator helps the couple work through issues such as a parenting plan and time-sharing schedule, the division of property and debts, and any question of support. When the spouses reach an agreement, it can be written up and submitted to the court.

Mediation is often faster and less adversarial than a contested trial, and it lets the couple keep more control over the outcome. It does not work for every situation, and it does not replace legal advice. To understand where mediation fits in the wider process, see our guide to how divorce works in Florida.

The information on this page is general and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your own case, speak with a licensed Florida attorney.