Family and Divorce Mediation
In Florida, individuals are required to attend at least one mediation session to address family law matters before a hearing can be set. Family law includes divorce or child custody matters. Some people believe litigation in the court is the best way to protect their interests. However, going to court can be a costly and emotionally draining process.
Alternatively, Family and Divorce Mediation can be used to reach a collaborative solution tailored to the needs of the parties. No one truly wins in these situations, but mediation can allow for a more satisfying resolution.
Dr. Sadberry offers two services to address family and divorce matters.
Consulting to help reduce emotions influencing your experience in mediation and setting realistic expectations for the outcome prior to attending mediations.
She is also able to mediate these matters.
Contact Dr. Sheriece to see which would be best for your situation.
-
∙ Cost effective
∙ Quicker resolution than going to court
∙ Gives parties control over the outcome
-
∙ Divorce / Division of Property and Debts
∙ Child Custody and Visitation (Time-Sharing)
∙ Child Support
∙ Alimony
∙ Modifications of Family Law Orders
-
∙ $250 an hour
∙ Three hour minimum. Each party pays $375
∙ Each party pays $187.50 at the time of scheduling
∙ Additional hours can be scheduled as needed
∙ Cancellation fee is $375 if less than 72 hours notice
-
There is no difference. All Certified Family Mediators receive the same training and have to abide by the same guidelines, such as not giving legal advice, being impartial, and neutral facilitators. The one advantage of utilizing a mental health provider is that our training allows us to be able to manage the emotions in the room which can help the process move quicker to a resolution.
-
The mediator is a neutral, impartial, third-party who helps facilitate negotiations and communication between the parties. They cannot provide legal advice, do not advise either party on the negotiations and do not decide the issues for the parties. This is not couples therapy.
-
Parties can be present on their own (Pro Se) or can choose to have an attorney present.
-
All communication in mediation is confidential and inadmissible as evidence in any subsequent legal or criminal proceedings, unless both parties agree otherwise.
-
Dr. Sheriece offers in-person or virtual mediation sessions. She will also travel to a neutral location in Tampa, Brandon, Clearwater, St. Petersburg and the surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Family and divorce mediation is a structured process in which a neutral professional helps individuals work together to resolve family-related concerns, improve communication, and reach mutually acceptable agreements outside of court.
-
Requirements vary depending on the circumstances and local court procedures. Some family law cases may require mediation before litigation, while others may not. An attorney can advise you on your specific legal requirements.
-
Yes. Mediation can help parents develop parenting plans, improve communication, and work toward agreements that support the best interests of their children.
-
No. A mediator serves as a neutral facilitator and does not provide legal representation or legal advice. Individuals are encouraged to consult with an attorney regarding their legal rights and obligations.
-
Mediation may help families improve communication, reduce conflict, reach collaborative agreements, and often resolve concerns more efficiently than traditional litigation.
Why did you choose this field? Follow us as we dive into the student perspective as Ayotorimide Ariyo answers this question.