How to Choose the Right Mediator for Your Florida Divorce or Civil Dispute

Mediation is one of the most powerful tools in Florida dispute resolution — but the outcome depends heavily on who you choose to facilitate. At Bechert & Associates, P.A., founding attorney Henry Bechert is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator with decades of experience guiding parties to productive resolutions.

What Is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator?

Florida Supreme Court Certification is the highest mediator credential in the state. To earn it, a mediator must complete extensive training, demonstrate experience facilitating complex disputes, and pass a rigorous certification process. Certified Circuit Civil Mediators are qualified to mediate cases in circuit court — including high-stakes business disputes, family law matters, and personal injury cases.

5 Qualities to Look for in a Florida Mediator

First, look for Supreme Court Certification — this guarantees baseline competency. Second, choose a mediator with subject matter expertise in your type of dispute (family law, personal injury, business). Third, look for a neutral but empathetic communication style. Fourth, review their settlement success rate. Fifth, consider availability and location — mediators based in Broward County will be most familiar with local courts and norms.

Is Mediation Required in Florida?

In many Florida civil and family law cases, judges order mediation before trial. Courts in Broward County routinely require parties to attempt mediation before scheduling a final hearing. Even when not required, voluntary mediation is often faster, cheaper, and less emotionally damaging than litigation — particularly in family law disputes involving children.

What Types of Cases Does Bechert Mediate?

Henry Bechert mediates divorce and family law disputes, personal injury settlement conferences, business contract disputes, estate disagreements, and civil litigation matters. Serving Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and all of Broward and Palm Beach Counties, our mediation services offer a path to resolution without the cost and uncertainty of a courtroom.