What is Mediation?
Before investigating a complaint, each complaint is reviewed to determine whether mediation would be appropriate. If it is determined that mediation is appropriate, complainants are asked if they would like to attempt to resolve their complaint through the MCHR Mediation Program. If they are willing, the respondent (business entity against whom the complaint is filed) is contacted and asked if they would like to mediate the complaint. If both parties agree, the case is scheduled for a mediation meeting. These meetings are conducted by one of MCHR’s voluntary mediators. If an agreement is reached in a mediation meeting, the terms of the agreement are put into a written document which both parties sign. If no agreement is reached, the case is referred for investigation.
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution. It is a collaborative process in which a neutral third party, called a mediator, facilitates discussion between two or more parties, in an attempt to help them reach agreement. The mediator does not decide how the matter should be resolved; only the parties decide whether, and on what terms, their dispute should be resolved. In effect, Mediation is a facilitated negotiation conference, conducted in a confidential setting. Click here to download “An Introduction to Mediation.” Since Chris Shulman is a Florida certified Circuit Civil and County Mediator, the Florida Mediation Confidentiality and Privilege Act, Sections 44.401 – 44.406, of the Florida Statutes, automatically applies to any mediation he conducts, unless the parties expressly agree in writing to opt out of the Act and inform Mr. Shulman of this before the mediation begins. Chapter 44 of the Florida Statutes is available online.
Mediation is the process of meeting with an impartial person, to work toward an agreement that is satisfactory to everyone involved. A mediator guides discussions, but does not take sides or make decisions. Mediation empowers the individuals to have a say in the outcome of the case and in their futures. Creative Solutions for Families limits its practice to cases involving children. Mediation aims to find a solution that meets the needs of you, your partner and children, and that you both feel is fair. At the end of mediation, you should feel that there has been no ‘winner’ or ‘loser,’ but that you have come to an arrangement that works for your family and that you can all live with. Mediation can help to reduce tension, anger, and misunderstanding, and improve communication between you and your partner. This is especially important when you have children, because you will probably be co-parenting over their care and upbringing. Divorce ends your marriage, not your role as a parent. Th
Mediation is a cooperative problem solving process where the parties meet together with a neutral mediator in several working sessions to work out such issues as property division, alimony, child support, and parenting arrangements. The mediator does not represent either party, but assists the couple in developing creative options that address the specific needs of each party. Once agreement is reached on all issues, the mediator drafts the separation agreement. The separation agreement is then incorporated into the divorce decree, and becomes legally binding on the parties. In mediation, the focus is not on winning or losing, but on finding creative and equitable solutions that benefit both parties and meet the parties personal sense of fairness.
