Experienced Florida Divorce Mediation Attorney
Divorce litigation puts families through lengthy court battles that drain finances, increase stress and damage relationships. Mediation offers an alternative path where you work with your spouse and a neutral mediator to reach agreements outside the courtroom.
I am Lorri Fishman, a divorce mediation attorney in Florida with over 25 years of family law experience. At Lorri K. Fishman, P.A., I guide Fort Lauderdale clients through mediation while protecting their rights.
Why Choose Mediation Over Traditional Litigation?
Mediation provides substantial advantages for families navigating divorce and custody matters:
- Cost-effective: Mediation typically costs less than contested litigation by reducing attorney time and court appearances
- Time-saving: Most mediations resolve within weeks or months rather than the year or longer that trials often require
- Confidential: Mediation discussions remain private unlike public court proceedings where sensitive matters become public record
- Greater control: Spouses can typically craft solutions rather than accepting a judge’s imposed decisions
- Better for co-parenting: The collaborative process preserves relationships, making child custody mediation in Florida particularly beneficial for parents who must continue working together
These benefits make mediation an attractive option for resolving family law disputes while minimizing damage to relationships and finances.
Is Mediation Right For Your Situation?
Mediation works well for many families, but certain circumstances require careful evaluation. High-conflict cases involving domestic violence or significant power imbalances may necessitate traditional litigation to protect vulnerable parties. When one spouse hides assets or refuses to negotiate in good faith, court intervention often becomes necessary.
What Are The Stages Of Florida Mediation?
Florida mediation follows a structured process. First, both parties select and schedule a mediator certified by the Florida Supreme Court. During initial sessions, the mediator explains rules and each spouse presents their position. The mediator then facilitates discussions about contested issues, including dividing assets in Florida divorce mediation, time-sharing arrangements and support obligations. When agreements are reached, the mediator drafts a settlement memorandum that attorneys convert into formal court documents for filing.
What Is Your Attorney’s Role During Mediation?
A divorce mediation lawyer provides critical family support throughout the mediation process. I protect your rights by reviewing settlement terms for fairness and legal sufficiency and counseling you on the long-term implications of proposed agreements.
Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Office About Divorce Mediation
Call Lorri K. Fishman, P.A., at 954-928-9832 or email me to schedule a free phone consultation about whether mediation is appropriate for your Florida family law matter.