Collaborative Divorce & Mediation

Not quite in agreement — but committed to resolving things without a courtroom fight? Structured, resolution-focused processes can help you get there.

Collaborative divorce

A team approach to reaching agreement

Florida’s Collaborative Law Process Act allows spouses to resolve their divorce through a structured, out-of-court process. Each spouse has a collaboratively trained attorney, and everyone signs an agreement committing to resolve the case without litigation. Neutral professionals — such as a financial specialist or mental-health professional — may join the team. Mediation is also part of the collaborative process.

A real commitment

If the collaborative process breaks down and the case goes to court, the collaborative attorneys generally cannot continue to represent the parties in litigation. That shared commitment is part of what makes the process work.

Mediation

A neutral mediator helps you find common ground

In mediation, a neutral mediator helps spouses negotiate a resolution. The mediator doesn’t decide anything — you do. Importantly, a mediator cannot give legal advice to either spouse, so you should not attend a mediation without an attorney. Mediation is widely used in Florida family cases, and in contested cases courts commonly require it before trial.

Accord can advise you before and during mediation, and turn a mediated agreement into complete, enforceable settlement documents.

Mediation may help when…

Which path fits?

Choosing a resolution-focused approach

Uncontested divorce

You already agree on everything. We document the agreement and finalize the divorce for a flat fee.

Almost Agreed™

One or two narrowly defined issues remain. Limited attorney settlement assistance within a clear scope.

Mediation or collaborative

Several issues remain, but you’re both committed to resolving them without a court battle.

Questions

Collaborative Divorce & Mediation FAQs

What is the difference between collaborative divorce and mediation?

In collaborative divorce, each spouse has their own collaboratively trained attorney and the team works together toward agreement outside of court — and mediation is also part of the collaborative process. In mediation on its own, a neutral mediator facilitates negotiation. A mediator cannot give legal advice, so you should not attend mediation without an attorney advising you.

Is collaborative divorce cheaper than litigation?

It often is, because it avoids court hearings, discovery battles, and trial preparation. Costs depend on the number of issues and professionals involved.

Do I need a lawyer for mediation?

Florida doesn’t require it, but we strongly recommend it. A mediator is neutral and cannot give legal advice, so you should not attend mediation without an attorney. Having an attorney advise you before, during, and after mediation helps you understand your rights and make sure any agreement is complete and enforceable.

What if we reach agreement in mediation?

The concept of the agreement can be signed in mediation, but be sure it is not a binding agreement. An attorney who is protecting your interests needs to address the numerous deficiencies in a typical mediation agreement and prepare a proper settlement agreement that is enforceable and will be approved by the court. We then use that settlement agreement to obtain the final judgment at your divorce hearing.

Explore a resolution-focused path

In a free 15-minute assessment, we’ll help you understand which approach fits your situation.

Schedule an Assessment Schedule a Free 15-Minute Assessment

Prefer to talk? Call (352) 434-0222 or text us — after-hours messages are answered the next business day.

Flat fees apply only to qualifying, standard-scope matters after attorney review and acceptance of your case. Mediator fees and other third-party professional fees are not included. This page is general information, not legal advice. Contacting Accord Law Florida does not create an attorney-client relationship.