The Citizen Dispute Settlement Program and Pre-Filing Family Mediation

Resolving Conflicts Through Mediation

Mediation is an informal and voluntary process for individuals who have disputes that they would like to work out in a non-adversarial way. A neutral and impartial mediator works with the parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.

Consider Mediation Before Going to Court

The Citizen Dispute Settlement Program and Pre-Filing Family Mediation give individuals the opportunity to resolve disputes in a neutral and confidential setting before a court case is filed. Participants may be able to avoid certain court costs, attorney fees, and lost time from work by using mediation rather than litigating the dispute.

Both parties must agree to meet with a mediator who will help them identify the issues and explore alternatives to solve them. All communications, other than a signed agreement, are confidential to the extent provided by law and generally not admissible in court. If the parties reach a total or partial agreement, the mediator may prepare a mediation agreement. The parties may sign the agreement at the mediation or are welcome to seek legal advice prior to signing.

The mediator does not act as a judge or a lawyer. Participating in mediation does not preclude an individual from filing a lawsuit if the mediation did not result in an agreement.

How Much Does It Cost?

There is no charge for these programs.
All of our Florida Supreme Court certified county and family mediators donate their time and expertise to the program and share our commitment to serving the public.

Who May Participate?

Participation is available to any person residing in the 12th Judicial Circuit who has a complaint against another person. There is no problem too small or too large for mediation.

However, mediation is Not for everyone.

Some cases are not appropriate for mediation, and the Citizen Dispute Settlement Program reserves the right to decline a case for any reason. Our office may refer you to an agency or organization who can assist you with your dispute or you may file a lawsuit with the court. Neither the program directors nor the mediators are permitted to give individuals legal advice about how to file or defend a lawsuit.

When will a Mediation Conference Be Scheduled?

Mediation conferences are scheduled during regular business hours. They are usually scheduled within three weeks.

What Kind of Disputes Can the Citizen Dispute Settlement Program Help Resolve?

What is Pre-Filing Family Mediation?

The Pre-filing Family Mediation Program is a division of the Citizen Dispute Settlement Program. Pre-Filing Family Mediation is an opportunity to work out a family matter before a court case is filed. To be eligible for the program, neither party may have previously filed any family division court case involving the same parties or children. The most common issues in pre-filing family mediations include parental responsibility, parenting plans, child support, and distribution of assets and debts.

How to Contact the Citizen Dispute Settlement Program

If you would like the Citizen Dispute Settlement Program to assist you with your dispute,

PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR DISPUTE ONLINE HERE

Or you may mail/fax completed form to:

There are mediation locations throughout the 12th Judicial Circuit for your convenience: