YOUR 850 DIVORCE LAWYER

Mediation

Divorce & Family Law Mediation

Most Florida Family Law Cases Are Resolved Through Mediation

Calm doesn’t mean weak. Mediation gives you control, with clarity, strategy, and a steady hand. Whether you're divorcing, modifying custody, or resolving child support, mediation is often required by the court, and for good reason.

Mediation allows you and the other party to create your own agreement, instead of leaving critical decisions in the hands of a judge.

At Justin Andersson, P.A., we prepare clients thoroughly for mediation, with clear legal goals, focused negotiation strategies, and full understanding of what’s at stake. And if mediation fails? We’re ready for court.

Young couple visiting a femal divorce lawyer in office
Resolve Without a Judge

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a confidential meeting where both parties try to reach an agreement with the help of a neutral third party (the mediator). The mediator doesn’t make decisions — but helps you and the other party work toward a solution.

You can resolve:

  • Custody & Timesharing
  • Child Support
  • Property Division
  • Alimony
  • Modifications
  • Enforcement disputes
  • Relocation agreements

Mediation is voluntary in theory — but in most Florida counties, it’s court-ordered before trial.

Settle Smart, Not in Court

Benefits of Mediation

  • More Control – You and your spouse craft the outcome
  • Private & Confidential – Mediation stays out of the courtroom and off the public record
  • Faster Resolution – Often completed in one or two sessions
  • Lower Cost – Settling early avoids multiple hearings or trial prep
  • Less Stressful – Allows space for compromise without courtroom pressure
  • Custom Agreements – Flexible plans that judges can’t always order
Smart Reasons to Settle Early

When Mediation Makes Sense

  • You're willing to talk, but can’t agree on terms
  • You want to protect children from a high-conflict court fight
  • You’re looking to save time and legal expense
  • You believe the other party will be more reasonable with a neutral present
  • You want a tailored agreement instead of a generic court order
Holding the Other Side Accountable

When Mediation May Not Work

  • There’s an active domestic violence injunction or power imbalance
  • One party is hiding income, assets, or children
  • A person is unwilling to settle under any terms
  • There’s a history of threats, abuse, or manipulation
  • One party refuses to follow court orders already in place
Even in these cases, courts may still require one attempt before trial.
Support at Every Step

What We Do for You

  • Prepare you for mediation with a clear legal roadmap
  • Draft or review Parenting Plans, support calculations, and property splits
  • Represent you during mediation (in person or virtually)
  • Ensure enforceability of any agreements reached
  • Immediately pivot to litigation strategy if no agreement is reached
a man in a suit providing comfort with a handshake to a woman seeking divorce guidance
Florida Divorce FAQ

Mediation FAQ

Yes. Nothing you say in mediation can be used in court if it doesn’t result in an agreement.

Usually split equally, though courts may assign payment based on income or agreement. State-sponsored programs exist for low-income parties.

Absolutely. In fact, we strongly recommend it. We attend mediation sessions with our clients to protect their rights and guide negotiations.

Only written and signed mediation agreements are binding. Verbal agreements aren’t enforceable.

Who We Serve

Proudly Representing Families Throughout the Florida Panhandle

From the coast to the Wiregrass line, we provide trusted legal representation in:

Bay County (Home Base):

  • Panama City
  • Panama City Beach
  • Lynn Haven
  • Callaway
  • Mexico Beach
  • Springfield
  • Parker

Surrounding Areas:

  • Jackson County
  • Marianna
  • Graceville
  • Sneads
  • Gulf County
  • Port St. Joe
  • Wewahitchka
  • Calhoun County
  • Blountstown
  • Altha
  • Washington County
  • Chipley
  • Vernon
  • Holmes County
  • Bonifay
  • Ponce de Leon

Wider Northwest Florida & Panhandle Region:

  • Walton County
  • Defuniak Springs
  • Freeport
  • Santa Rosa Beach
  • Okaloosa County
  • Fort Walton Beach
  • Crestview
  • Niceville
  • Santa Rosa County
  • Milton
  • Navarre
  • Escambia County
  • Pensacola
  • Cantonment
  • Gulf Breeze

Whether you live in Panama City or commute in from across the Panhandle, we offer virtual consultations, flexible scheduling, and personalized legal support from a team that understands Northwest Florida values.

See What Our Clients Say

Honest Feedback From Those We’ve Represented

Although I have not needed a divorce, I have utilized other legal services that Justin assisted me with. He was professional, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. He explained everything clearly and made the process smooth and stress-free. Based on my experience, I would confidently recommend Justin to anyone in need of legal support, including all family law matters.

Liane DeBoard

I recently moved my business to Panama and Justin was incredibly helpful in providing legal guidance to get things started. He was knowledgeable, professional, and generous with his time. Highly recommend him for anyone needing legal support in the area.

Escape D’amour

I can’t say enough good things about Justin. From the very first meeting, I felt heard, respected, and supported. And Laramie the office manager he is just so caring that makes you feel like part of the family. 🙏Justin and his team went above and beyond for me during a difficult point in my life. They were responsive, compassionate, and truly fought for my best interest.💪 If you need an attorney who actually cares — this is the place. Highly recommend!

Carmen Argueta Yacaman

Justin Andersson is an outstanding attorney. He is professional, responsive, and truly cares about his clients. I was always kept informed and he actually answered my phone calls (or called me back quickly)! Highly recommend his firm to anyone in need of honest and effective legal assistance.

DON MCCOY

I strongly recommend Attorney Andersson as your attorney if you are looking to protect your assets or consider a divorce. He is very diligent, pays a great attention to the details and goes above and beyond for his clients.
 
 

Anastasiia Diedkova

Justin and his team are diligent and extremely pleasant to work with. I recommend their legal services to anyone in need.
 
 

Stephen Matheny

I would highly recommend hiring Justin Andersson for your legal needs. He went above and beyond to help our family with legal needs.

glen warren

Mr Andersson took on a very unique case for one of my clients. His research , discovery , and timely manner was impeccable. I highly recommend his service.

GG Richardson

Justin is very knowledgeable of the law and gives great advice.

Phil Skeen

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Disclaimer: The information on this site is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Justin Andersson is not board certified in marital and family law by The Florida Bar. For full details, please see our Legal Disclaimer page or email info@850DivorceLawyer.com to request a copy.

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