How much does mediation cost in Florida?

Florida mediation typically costs $150-$400 per hour depending on the mediator's experience and case complexity. Most civil and family mediations are completed in 2-6 hours, making the total cost significantly less than litigation. Elder care and real estate mediation sessions often resolve in a single day, providing substantial savings compared to months of court proceedings.

Is mediation legally binding in Florida?

Yes, mediation agreements in Florida become legally binding contracts when both parties sign the settlement agreement. Under Florida Statute 44, mediated agreements can be enforced in court if one party fails to comply. The mediator helps draft clear, enforceable terms that protect both parties' interests.

How long does mediation take in Florida?

Most Florida mediation cases are resolved in a single session lasting 2-8 hours. Complex family or elder care disputes may require 2-3 sessions over several weeks. This is significantly faster than Florida court proceedings, which can take 6-18 months to reach trial.

Do I need a lawyer for mediation in Florida?

No, Florida law allows pro se mediation where parties participate without attorneys. However, you can bring legal counsel if desired. Many Florida families choose mediation specifically to avoid expensive attorney fees while still getting professional guidance from a certified mediator.

What types of cases can be mediated in Florida?

Florida mediators handle civil disputes, family law matters, elder care conflicts, real estate disputes, construction disagreements, and business partnership issues. Florida courts often require mediation before trial in many civil and family cases.

How do I find a certified mediator in Florida?

Florida Supreme Court maintains a directory of certified mediators. Look for mediators with specific experience in your dispute type - elder care, real estate, family law, or civil matters. Certified Florida mediators complete 40+ hours of training and ongoing education requirements.

Can mediation be done online in Florida?

Yes, Florida allows virtual mediation via video conferencing platforms. Online mediation is especially popular for elder care disputes where family members live in different Florida cities or out-of-state. Virtual sessions maintain confidentiality while providing convenient access across Florida.

What happens if mediation fails in Florida?

If Florida mediation doesn't reach agreement, parties retain all legal rights to pursue litigation. The mediation process is confidential, so statements made during mediation cannot be used in court. Many Florida cases that don't fully settle still benefit from narrowed issues and improved communication.

Is elder care mediation common in Florida?

Yes, elder care mediation is increasingly popular in Florida due to the large retiree population. Florida families use mediation to resolve guardianship disputes, care facility decisions, financial management conflicts, and end-of-life planning disagreements. It's often faster and less emotionally damaging than guardianship court proceedings.

How much does real estate mediation cost in Florida?

Florida real estate mediation typically costs $200-$500 per hour, with most residential disputes resolving in 3-6 hours. This is substantially less than real estate litigation, which can cost $10,000-$50,000+ in attorney fees. Commercial real estate mediation may take longer but still costs less than trial.

Can Florida construction disputes be mediated?

Yes, Florida construction mediation is ideal for renovation disputes, contractor conflicts, and buildout disagreements under $100,000. Many Florida construction contracts include mandatory mediation clauses. Mediation allows contractors and property owners to preserve business relationships while resolving payment and performance issues.

What is pro se divorce mediation in Florida?

Pro se divorce mediation in Florida allows couples to divorce without attorneys using a neutral mediator. This is particularly popular among Florida seniors with no minor children or significant debt who want an amicable, affordable dissolution. The process typically costs under $2,000 total compared to $15,000+ for contested divorce litigation.

Clear, Confident Conflict Resolution

Dev Doyno is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator helping clients resolve civil, family, and real estate matters efficiently and on their terms.

Why Mediation?

60%

Less expensive than litigation

4x

Faster than going to trial

70%

Of mediations result in agreement

Mediation offers a faster, more affordable path to resolution, without court delays, high legal fees, or public exposure.

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Meet the Mediator

Known for his calm presence and principled approach, Dev brings a rare combination of legal knowledge, real-world experience, and genuine neutrality to every case. With decades of work in real estate, guardianship, and mediation, he understands the emotional and practical complexities clients face and provides a structured, respectful process for resolving them.

No matter the nature of your dispute, Dev creates a space where both parties feel heard and where resolution becomes possible.

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Introductory Call with Dev Doyno

Get expert insight into your dispute and learn how mediation can help. Dev Doyno offers practical, impartial guidance for civil disputes designed to save you time, money, and stress.

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Mediation Services

Explore the types of civil and family disputes Dev helps resolve through structured, impartial mediation—online or in-person across Florida.

(01)

Elder Care Mediation

Support for families navigating decisions around guardianship, asset management, and medical care for aging loved ones.

(02)

Real Estate Mediation

Resolution of disputes involving sales, leasing, disclosure issues, and partnership dissolutions in residential or real estate.

(03)

Pro Se Silver Divorce

For senior couples without minor children or significant debt who wish to dissolve their marriage amicably and affordably.

(04)

Construction Dispute Mediation

Ideal for renovation or buildout conflicts under $100K that are too complex for small claims, but not cost-effective to litigate.

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