When parents separate or divorce, deciding how to share time with their child can feel overwhelming. Child custody mediation gives you and the other parent a chance to work together in a more private, less stressful setting. In Florida, courts encourage families to try mediation before asking a judge to make decisions for them.
At Central Justice, we believe that parents, not courts, know their children best. We’re here to help you approach mediation thoughtfully, protect your rights, and build a plan that puts your child first.
What Happens During Child Custody Mediation?
Mediation is a process where both parents meet with a trained, neutral third party called a mediator. The mediator’s job isn’t to pick sides or make decisions for you. Instead, they help you both talk through disagreements and try to reach common ground.
Everything discussed in mediation stays private. Unlike courtroom hearings, which are public, mediation offers a confidential space to focus on solutions, not blame.
During your session, you’ll discuss issues like where your child will live, how holidays will be shared, and how you’ll make important decisions together. Some parents reach a full agreement after one session; others may need more time. Either way, we’ll help you prepare for mediation so you feel confident, informed, and ready to advocate for your child’s needs.
Common Issues Addressed in Mediation
Mediation can cover just about every part of raising a child after separation, including:
- Custody: Deciding where the child will live and how major decisions will be made.
- Visitation schedules: Planning weekends, weekdays, holidays, vacations, and birthdays.
- Transportation: Arranging how and where exchanges will happen.
- Communication: Setting expectations for how parents will stay in touch about the child’s life.
- Future changes: Building in ways to handle issues that might come up later.
By working through these topics ahead of time, you can avoid bigger problems down the road.
Benefits of Trying Mediation First
Mediation offers real benefits for both parents and children. For one, it often costs far less than a court battle and takes much less time. It also gives you more control over the outcome instead of leaving decisions to a judge who doesn’t know your family.
Choosing mediation can also ease the strain on your child. Seeing their parents work together—even during tough conversations—can help children adjust and feel more secure. Mediation also builds a foundation for better communication, which is important for long-term co-parenting success.
We’ll work closely with you to prepare for mediation, making sure you know your goals and feel ready to find common ground without giving up what matters most.
When Mediation Might Not Be Right
While mediation can help many families, it’s not the right choice for everyone. If your case involves domestic violence, serious substance abuse, or extreme conflict, mediation may not be safe or fair.
At Central Justice, we take the time to review your situation carefully. If mediation isn’t a good fit, we’ll explain your other options and stand by your side to protect your rights and your child’s best interests.
How Central Justice Can Support You During Mediation
Our team can help you get ready for your mediation sessions by identifying your goals, gathering important information, and preparing you for the kinds of questions that often come up. During mediation, we’ll be available to advise you so you don’t feel pressured into anything you’re uncomfortable with.
If you reach an agreement, we’ll carefully review it before you sign, making sure the terms are fair, enforceable, and aligned with your child’s best interests. We believe that with the right support, you can walk into mediation prepared and walk out with a plan that works.
Contact Our Experienced Orlando Child Custody Mediation Attorneys
Child custody mediation can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Central Justice, we’re ready to help you protect what matters most—your relationship with your child. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can support you during every stage of the process.