Courtney Bowes – Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator

What is mediation?

Mediation is a process where the two parties attempt to negotiate a settlement between themselves, rather than having the judge make the final decision. Mediation can save time, money and stress. A settlement is not required, however, simply because you agree to mediate.

The issues faced in a family law case are some of the most difficult and emotional decisions that a person can face. It often makes sense for all parties to engage in mediation and reach an agreement on the difficult issues faced in divorce, such as the division of assets, child custody and financial agreements.

Rates:

$350 per hour

Available to travel throughout Tampa Bay area

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View our Mediation Scheduling Calendar to send an appointment request today.

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With mediation, divorcing spouses may find that litigation is not necessary. In addition to avoiding the stress and expense of contentious litigation, we often find that parties are better able to work together moving forward when their cases are resolved by mediation rather than litigation, especially when children are involved.

Many couples mediate prior to filing for divorce. If the parties are able to resolve all aspects of their divorce case, they can then file the agreement with the court. Florida also requires mediation in all divorce cases before the parties can be heard by a judge. A mediator is a neutral party who does not have a vested interest in the outcome of the mediation. She is there only to facilitate the couple in reaching sensical and voluntary conclusions regarding the details of the divorce.

Courtney Bowes is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator. She has extensive experience in family law, having litigated exclusively family law cases, and uses her knowledge and expertise to assist parties in amicably resolving their divorce or family law issues through mediation. Courtney handles both attorney and non-attorney mediations for a reasonable fee. Contact the Bowes Law Group with any questions or to schedule a mediation with Courtney Bowes today.

Is it necessary that we have attorneys for mediation?

No, many parties attempt to resolve their family law cases without the additional expense of hiring attorneys. These are often referred to as Pro Se mediations. It is oftentimes advisable for parties to meet with an attorney before mediation, so they come into the process with a general understanding of the law and their rights, but it certainly is not necessary to have attorneys involved in the mediation.

Will the parties mediate in the same room or separate rooms?

It depends. Some parties get along well and the time is better spent with both parties discussing and working out all of the issues together. In many cases, having both parties in the same room is counter-productive. In these case the parties will be in separate rooms and the mediator will travel back and forth attempting to reach a resolution.

What if we only settle some of the issues in our case?

The parties would enter into what is called a partial settlement agreement, which will be filed with the court and most likely ratified into an order. Any issues not resolved will be presented to the court for final resolution.

What do I need to bring to mediation?

If you have an attorney, he or she will ensure that all necessary documents have been filed and/or exchanged with the other party prior to mediation. If you do not have an attorney, you will be provided with a blank financial affidavit, which you will need to bring to the mediation.