Tampa Mediation Attorney

Divorce Mediation Lawyer in Tampa, FL

Divorce doesn’t have to be a battleground. At Givens Law Group, we believe in guiding families through peaceful, productive alternatives whenever possible. As trusted Tampa divorce mediation lawyers, we help clients resolve disputes without the stress, cost, and unpredictability of traditional courtroom litigation. Our experienced mediators support clients in reaching fair, mutually agreeable solutions that protect their interests and promote long-term cooperation—especially when children are involved.

One of our founders, attorney Stann W. Givens, is a Certified Family Law Mediator and has decades of experience as a family law attorney. More than fifty percent of the cases that come through the office are successfully mediated, in whole or in part, bringing our clients financial and emotional relief from the torment of divorce litigation.

Contact a Tampa divorce mediation lawyer at Givens Law Group today at (813) 328-6159 to understand your options.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that allows spouses to work together—with the assistance of a neutral third-party mediator—to resolve the terms of their divorce. Unlike litigation, which involves a judge and often adversarial positions, mediation encourages communication, compromise, and cooperation.

The mediator does not represent either party or offer legal advice. Instead, their role is to facilitate open dialogue, identify areas of agreement, and guide the couple through decision-making on important issues like:

• Property and asset division
• Alimony (spousal support)
• Child custody and time-sharing
• Child support

Mediation can be voluntary or court-ordered, and it is often a prerequisite before a contested divorce can proceed to trial in Florida.

Mediation Rules in Hillsborough County

In Hillsborough County family law cases, mediation is not just encouraged — it is a required step in most situations. Within the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, which serves Tampa and the surrounding communities, the court expects parties to make a genuine effort to resolve their disputes before asking a judge to decide them.

Mediation is available even before a lawsuit is formally filed through pre-suit mediation. However, once a case is pending, local rules typically require mediation before a temporary relief hearing can move forward. In addition, a case generally cannot be set for trial until the parties have attended final mediation.

Although parties are required to attend mediation, they are not required to reach an agreement. The purpose of mediation is to provide a structured opportunity to resolve issues such as visitation, child support, alimony, and property division outside of a courtroom. The process is informal, confidential, and non-adversarial. A neutral mediator facilitates negotiations but does not make decisions for the parties.

Because most family law matters in Tampa are handled at the Hillsborough County Courthouse, working with a divorce mediation attorney in Tampa can make a meaningful difference. A lawyer familiar with how local judges review mediated agreements and what is expected before trial can help you prepare strategically, negotiate effectively, and approach mediation with clarity and confidence.

The Divorce Mediation Process in Tampa

Our team guides clients through the Florida divorce mediation process with clarity and compassion. Here's what you can expect when working with our divorce mediation law:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We begin with an initial consultation to assess your situation and determine whether mediation is the right fit. If both spouses agree to participate, we’ll explain the process and schedule mediation sessions.

During this meeting, we will also discuss whether you are better served by hiring us as your mediator or as your separate counsel, because the same professional cannot serve in both roles at once. This first step is an opportunity to ask questions about the process, the likely timeline, and how mediation compares to taking your case before a judge.

Step 2: Preparing for Mediation

Before sessions begin, each party may need to gather relevant documentation such as financial records, asset lists, and proposed parenting schedules. This helps ensure a productive and informed discussion.

Preparation may also include thinking through long-term goals, such as housing, retirement plans, and how holidays and school breaks will be shared with children.

Step 3: Mediation Sessions

The mediator meets with both spouses in a neutral setting—either in person or virtually. Through a series of structured conversations, the mediator facilitates negotiation and helps both parties identify common ground.

In some cases, the mediator may meet with each spouse separately in what are called caucus sessions, which can reduce tension and allow more candid discussion of difficult topics. Sessions can often be scheduled around work and school commitments so that the process is less disruptive to daily life.

Step 4: Drafting Agreements

Once an agreement is reached, the mediator prepares a written summary of the terms. Your attorney can then review the document, ensure legal compliance, and draft the final settlement for court approval.

This is also the stage where we look closely at how the agreement will be interpreted and enforced under Florida family law, including child support guidelines and equitable distribution rules. A family law mediation lawyer can flag any areas that may create confusion later, helping you build clear, durable terms that the judge at the Tampa courthouse can approve without unnecessary delay.

Step 5: Finalizing the Divorce

If the court approves the agreement and all legal requirements are met, a judge will issue a final divorce decree without the need for a trial.

After the decree is entered, we can answer questions about how to implement the new orders in everyday life, such as transferring title to property, updating beneficiary designations, or communicating schedule changes respectfully. For many families, this follow-through support is an important part of turning a mediated settlement into a workable plan for the future, particularly when co-parenting across different homes in the Tampa Bay area.

Benefits of Divorce Mediation

These benefits include:

• Cost-effective process: Mediation is generally less expensive than going to court. Without the need for prolonged legal battles, couples can save significantly on attorney fees, court costs, and expert witness expenses.
• Faster resolution: Court schedules are often backlogged, which can delay the divorce process for months or even years. Mediation sessions can be scheduled promptly and typically lead to a quicker resolution.
• Greater confidentiality: Unlike court proceedings, which become part of the public record, mediation is private. The details of your financial arrangements, custody agreements, and personal concerns remain confidential.
• More control over outcomes: In mediation, the couple—not a judge—decides the outcome. This gives both parties greater control over the results and allows for more personalized, flexible solutions.
• Reduced conflict overall: By fostering cooperation instead of confrontation, mediation often results in better post-divorce relationships, which is especially important for co-parenting.
• Child-centered approach: Mediation prioritizes the best interests of children. Parents are encouraged to work together to create parenting plans that support their child’s emotional and developmental needs.

Choosing a Mediation Lawyer in Tampa

Selecting the right professional to guide you through mediation is an important decision, especially when your future finances and your relationship with your children are at stake. You want someone who understands both the collaborative nature of mediation and the realities of how agreements are reviewed in the Hillsborough County courts. A thoughtful choice can make the process feel more structured and better aligned with your goals for life after divorce.

When you meet with a potential mediator or attorney, ask about their experience with Florida family law, how they prepare clients for sessions, and how they handle situations where emotions run high. It is also helpful to discuss whether they offer in-person conferences in Downtown Tampa as well as virtual options, so that you can participate in a way that works with your schedule and comfort level. By talking honestly about your concerns and expectations, you can determine whether the fit feels right and whether the professional’s approach to mediation matches what you and your spouse need.

FAQs About Divorce Mediation in Tampa, FL

Is divorce mediation legally binding?

The mediation process itself is not binding. However, once both parties sign a mediated settlement agreement and it is approved by the court, it becomes legally enforceable.

Do I still need a lawyer during mediation?

Yes, it is highly advisable to have your own lawyer review the mediated agreement to protect your legal rights. The mediator cannot give legal advice.

What happens if we can’t reach an agreement in mediation?

If mediation fails, unresolved issues can be brought before a family law judge for resolution. However, many couples find mediation successful for at least some of the major terms of their divorce.

How long does mediation take?

The length of mediation depends on the complexity of the case and the willingness of both parties to cooperate. Some divorces can be mediated in a few sessions, while others may require more time.

Can mediation work in high-conflict divorces?

Yes, even in cases with significant disagreements, mediation can help reduce hostility and promote constructive communication.

Is mediation required in Florida divorces?

In many counties, including Hillsborough County (Tampa), mediation is often required before a contested divorce can proceed to trial. However, exceptions may apply in cases involving domestic violence or other safety concerns.

Speak with a Tampa Divorce Mediation Lawyer Today

At Givens Law Group, we understand that no two divorces are alike. We are committed to helping families in Tampa navigate this difficult transition with dignity and respect. Mediation is not just about ending a marriage—it’s about creating a new foundation for the future, especially when children are involved.

When you meet with our divorce mediation lawyer in Tampa, you can talk through whether mediation makes sense in your specific situation, how it interacts with the requirements of the Hillsborough County courts, and what role we can play in helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Call (813) 328-6159 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our Tampa divorce mediators.