Resolving Tampa Child Custody Disputes Without Going To Court: Mediation Is An Option

Tampa child custody disputes are unfortunately common, but not every case ends up in front of a judge. For many Hillsborough County parents, mediation offers a faster, less expensive, and far less adversarial option.

Mediation lets you negotiate a parenting plan that fits your family. If you are dreading a drawn-out battle over your children’s future, it may be worth a look. Our Tampa child custody lawyers have over 30 years of experience helping clients in these often sensitive cases. Find out how mediation works and what you need to know to get the most out of it.

How The Mediation Process Works in Tampa Custody Cases

In Tampa child custody cases, a mediator can help parents reach mutually acceptable parenting arrangements. A neutral, trained third party appointed by a judge, they don’t take sides, make decisions, or have the authority to issue final orders.

Their job is to keep the conversation productive and help both parents focus on what their children actually need. Under Florida Statute 61.183, courts can refer parents to mediation in any contested custody case. In fact, under Florida Family Law Rule 12.740, it’s often required in contested custody cases. Here’s how it works:

• Both parents meet with the mediator, either in person or virtually, often for a session lasting several hours.
• Each parent can express their priorities and concerns in a structured, confidential setting.
• The mediator helps each party identify common ground and work through specific sticking points, such as holiday schedules, school decisions, or vacation time.
• Anything said during mediation is confidential and cannot be used against either parent in court.
• If the mediator helps parents reach an agreement, they prepare a written consent order and submit it to the judge for approval.

Mediation is successful in many Tampa child custody cases. However, if the parents can’t agree, the case proceeds to court.

How to Get the Most Out of Tampa Child Custody Mediation

Mediation helps many families resolve Tampa child custody disputes. However, to get the most out of it, follow these tips:

• Clarify your priorities before mediation starts, deciding which issues matter most and where you are willing to be flexible.
• Document any specific disputes, such as work or school schedules and past involvement in your child’s care.
• Make your child’s best interests the top priority.
• Keep the conversation focused on the future and avoid trying to relitigate past grievances.

Mediation can help prevent contentious, costly, and time-consuming Tampa child custody hearings. However, to protect your rights as a parent, seek professional legal help before attending a session or signing any documents.

Contact Our Experienced Tampa Child Custody Lawyers Today

If you are facing child custody issues in Tampa, mediation may be an option. To learn more about the process and whether it’s right for your case, contact Bubley & Bubley, P.A.

Our experienced Tampa child custody lawyer protects parents throughout the process and helps them negotiate arrangements that benefit them and their child. Request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.183.html

flcourts.gov/content/download/405507/file/family-law-rules-of-procedure.pdf