Settlement negotiations have long been a mandatory part of the personal injury process, and, now more than ever, judges are referring all litigation cases to mediation. In addition to mandating these cases mediate before allowing the case to go to trial, the settlement of matters has been encouraged by multiple jurisdictions throughout Florida.
On October 7, 2022, Florida Chief Justice Muñiz issued a proclamation recognizing Mediation Week, October 16-22, 2022. The proclamation notes the important role mediation plays in our justice system and represents a significant honor for the mediation community throughout the state. It states in part:
"WHEREAS, Florida has long been a leader in recognizing and promoting mediation as an alternative to litigation; and
WHEREAS, administrative agencies and court programs use mediation to effectively and efficiently resolve disputes; and
WHEREAS, mediation empowers individuals to develop solutions to conflict that are tailored to their particular needs; and
WHEREAS, mediation increases the use of constructive and non-adversarial resolutions in court cases; and
WHEREAS, mediation promotes the use of innovative and effective problem-solving and alternative dispute resolutions processes; and
WHEREAS, mediation is taught and practices in many schools in Florida not only as a way of resolving individual disputes but also as a means toward achieving a more peaceful society; and
WHEREAS, community-based mediation programs strengthen relationships by assisting in the resolution of neighborhood and community conflicts; and
WHEREAS, many businesses use mediation to resolve their disputes with individuals and other businesses in an amicable and fair manner; and
WHEREAS, mediation is an important facet for the dispensation of justice in an efficient manner.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT I, Carlos G Muñiz, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Florida, do hereby extend greeting and best wishes to all who are observing Mediation Week."
Whether you are in pre-suit settlement negotiations or preparing for mediation or arbitration, Opulent Landholdings’ Attorney Services can help!
For pre-suit settlement, we can assist with correspondence, including demand letters; researching facts and legal arguments; preparing and organizing the client file; verifying balances and requesting reductions from medical providers; disbursement; and closing files, just to name a few. For mediation and arbitration, we can assist with arranging and scheduling the mediation; organizing discovery; preparing arbitration or mediation statements; preparing and filing documents with the court; gathering statements and evidence; research; and more.
Once the settlement has been reached, Opulent Landholdings’ Attorney Services can create the first draft of the settlement agreement, assist with final negotiations, edit document and run redlines, and coordinating eSignatures.
Whether you are a mediator or an attorney who values the art of settlement, Attorney Services can help you!
