Mediation and Arbitration Attorneys

An increasing number of individuals and businesses are turning to mediation and arbitration as alternatives to traditional litigation to resolve their disputes in more cost-effective and timelier manners. Our reputable and dedicated attorneys at Laing, Weicholz, Schley have over 50 years of combined experience representing clients in cases involving these nuanced alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods. Our Firm offers unique perspective on ADR options since several of our attorneys are qualified, certified Mediators and Arbitrators in addition to being practicing litigators.

Whether you are a potential client looking for representation in your case, or someone looking for a qualified and skilled ADR specialist to provide services in your matter, our skilled attorneys can review your particular situation to determine how best our Firm can serve your needs and whether or not you can benefit from Mediation, Arbitration, or other potential ADR methods instead of traditional litigation in your specific case.

Mediation Services Offered Throughout Florida

Mediation is an informal and flexible process that involves a neutral, third-party mediator who assists parties with dispute resolution. While the mediator cannot make decisions for the parties, they help facilitate communication between the parties in working with them toward reaching an ultimate resolution of their differences via settlement.

Mediation allows parties to have total control over the outcome of their case and to save money that would otherwise be expended in the traditional litigation process. Mediation is also typically a much faster process than litigation. Broadly speaking, there are four types of mediation in Florida:

Facilitative mediation. This common type of mediation is often referred to as “traditional mediation.” In facilitative mediation, a neutral mediator merely facilitates negotiation between the parties and cannot make recommendations or decisions on behalf of the parties.
Evaluative mediation. Unlike facilitative mediation, evaluative mediation gives the mediator the authority to make recommendations and express their opinion during the mediation process.
Transformative mediation. In this type of mediation, the mediator’s job is to empower the parties in dispute to resolve their disagreement by encouraging them to understand the opposing party’s interests and objectives. Transformative mediation is based on both “empowerment” and “recognition.”
Court-mandated mediation. While mediation is typically a voluntary process that allows parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, a court will almost always require the parties in conflict to try mediation before litigating the disputed issues.

Depending on the disputed matter, mediation can be either civil or commercial. In civil mediation, the parties attempt to resolve their civil disagreements without court involvement. Business mediation, on the other hand, deals with commercial disputes and involves businesses, government agencies, companies, and individuals. Family cases, such as divorces, child support disagreements, or modifications to prior divorce decrees or agreements, are also routinely the subject of mediation.

Contact one of our highly skilled attorneys to discuss your case and potential mediation needs today.

Arbitration Services Offered Throughout Florida

Arbitration, like mediation, is an alternative dispute resolution option separate and distinct from the courtroom setting. However, unlike mediation, which involves a neutral mediator that does not have control over the parties’ decisions, arbitration is held before a qualified and certified arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators who have the authority to make decisions for the parties in conflict. Typically, the parties can choose their arbitrators.

While arbitration may be legally required by an arbitration clause in a contract, the parties can agree to use and attend arbitration as an alternative dispute resolution option to resolve their disputed issues even if there is no requirement to do so via contract. In certain situations, a judge may also order parties in court to attend arbitration.

Contact one of our highly skilled attorneys to discuss your case and possible arbitration needs today.

Contact Us Now Regarding Your Alternative Dispute Resolution Needs and Options

Mediation, arbitration, and other ADR options offer a wide range of benefits. However, it is essential to understand which ADR method is more appropriate for your particular case. Our skilled ADR attorneys at Laing, Weicholz, Schley are prepared to review your particular case and help you understand your options. Our qualified and certified neutrals and arbitrators are also available to provide you with mediation and arbitration services you may require.