For the last couple of years, I’ve written quite a bit about conflict: how it escalates, why people avoid difficult conversations, and what helps people move from reaction to resolution.

A common question I receive is: “What types of mediation do you handle?”

In short, I handle disputes where parties need a path forward.

At Sage Mediation and Consulting, I focus exclusively on non-criminal civil matters. My core areas include divorce and parenting plan mediation, landlord-tenant and eviction disputes, HOA and community association conflicts, business and consumer disputes, and other civil disagreements where communication has broken down, and parties need assistance reaching resolution. I mediate cases involving both self-represented (pro se) individuals and those represented by attorneys.

These areas may appear unrelated at first. However, the underlying dynamics are often quite similar. People want to feel heard, seek clarity, and desire progress. Most prefer to retain some control over the outcome rather than leave the decision entirely to a judge.

This is one reason mediation is a vital part of the legal process in Florida. In many contested cases, mediation is required before trial, typically after initial court filings but before significant litigation. Mediation can also occur earlier, even before a lawsuit is filed, if both parties agree. Early mediation helps clients avoid unnecessary conflict, reduce costs, and prevent escalation. The key question is often not whether mediation will occur, but when it will take place and how much conflict, delay, and expense accumulate beforehand.

For those considering mediation, here is what you can typically expect from the process and the general timeline:

1. Scheduling: Once both parties agree or the court orders mediation, a session is scheduled, usually within a few weeks. Parties receive an intake form or initial instructions to help them prepare.

2. Opening: At the start of mediation, the mediator explains the process and ground rules. Each party has an opportunity to share their perspective without interruption.

3. Discussion: The mediator guides a structured conversation, helping clarify the issues and identify priorities. Depending on the situation, the mediator may meet with the parties together or separately (in private caucus sessions) to discuss sensitive topics.

4. Negotiation: With the mediator’s help, parties explore options and potential solutions. The focus is on practical agreements that address everyone’s primary concerns.

5. Resolution: If an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a memorandum or written settlement. Both parties review and sign the document. If no agreement is reached, parties retain the option to continue negotiations or proceed with litigation.

Throughout the process, parties can expect a private, voluntary, and confidential environment, with the mediator acting as a neutral guide.

There is a common misconception that mediation only works when parties get along. In reality, many participants arrive frustrated, skeptical, emotionally exhausted, or convinced that resolution is impossible. Productive mediation does not require perfect communication or full agreement. It requires a process that keeps parties focused long enough to address the real issues.

Confidentiality is a key part of the mediation process. Mediation sessions are private, and what is discussed is generally not shared outside the process. This means that information disclosed in mediation, as well as any offers or proposals, are not shared with the court or outside parties except in limited circumstances required by law.

While each mediation is unique, the goal is to ensure everyone is heard and to help both sides reach a workable resolution.

My background in local government has shaped my approach to this work. I spent years managing competing interests, public pressure, organizational conflict, and community disputes where relationships remained important after disagreements ended. This experience translates well to mediation. In addition, I am a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil and Family Mediator, with advanced training in dispute resolution and extensive experience mediating a wide range of civil cases. I have completed over 100 hours of specialized mediation training and regularly participate in continuing education to stay current on best practices. These credentials allow me to serve both self-represented and represented clients effectively and build trust with attorneys alike.

Whether the issue involves a family, neighborhood, business relationship, or housing dispute, the goal is not to “win” the conversation, but to find a workable path forward.

That’s the work I do.

To learn more about the mediation services I offer at Sage Mediation and Consulting, reach out for a free consultation. I am happy to discuss your needs and help you explore next steps. If you know someone who might need my services, a referral is also appreciated.