CHRISTIAN D. SMED, P.A. supreme court of florida certified family mediator
Court vs. Mediation: Know the Difference Before You File
If you’re considering filing for divorce or resolving custody issues, you may believe that going to court is your only option. But here’s what most people don’t realize:
In Florida, 99% of the time, the court will require you to attend mediation before a judge will hear your case. That means even if you file, you’re likely headed to mediation — after months of waiting, paperwork, and rising conflict. So why not start there?
What Happens When You Go Through the Court System?
Filing for divorce or custody may seem like a direct route to resolution. In reality, it's often the beginning of a long and expensive process.
You file a petition and pay court fees
You serve the other party and wait for a response
You submit mandatory financial disclosures
You complete required parenting courses (if you have children)
The court orders mediation — usually months after you file
If no agreement is reached, you wait for hearings or a trial (which can take 6 to 12 months)
You pay legal fees throughout the process
By the time mediation occurs, you’ve already invested significant time, money, and emotional energy — often making peaceful agreement harder to reach.
Mediation First: A Smarter, Simpler Option
If mediation is likely going to be required anyway, there’s no reason to wait months and pay thousands just to end up in the same place.
Starting with mediation:
Saves time
Reduces stress
Keeps costs predictable
Gives you faster closure
Promotes healthier communication between parents
And if you reach agreement? You can file it with the court and finalize your case without a trial.
Led by an Experienced Family Law Attorney
Christian D. Smed, Esq. is a licensed Florida attorney and Supreme Court of Florida Certified Family Mediator who has spent more than two decades guiding families through divorce, parenting plans, and support disputes. You benefit from a calm, flexible, and professional process — grounded in real legal knowledge and experience — while still working outside the courtroom.
Whether you're in Orlando, Sanford, Deland, or Mount Dora or anywhere in between — our mediation services are available to all Florida residents, with virtual options for added flexibility.
Don’t Let the Court Decide What’s Best for you and Your Family.
Schedule Your Mediation Today - Contact Florida Supreme Court of Florida Certified Family Mediator Christian D. Smed: 📧 [email protected] 📞 407-644-2978