If your case is contested, you may be required to attend mediation prior to attending a Final Hearing. Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party (the mediator) assists the parties and their attorneys in resolving the disputed issues without a judge present. If your case settles at mediation, an agreement will be signed by the parties, the attorneys and the mediator. In most instances, a hearing is not necessary to finalize the case. There is a cost for the mediator (generally about $100.00 to $125.00 per hour per party); however, if the case settles, it will save money on litigation costs.
If your case is contested, the opposing attorney may want to take your deposition. A deposition is testimony taken under oath with a court reporter present to gather information to prepare a case for trial. The judge is not present for depositions. You can order a transcript of the deposition and there is a cost for the preparation of the transcript which is set by the court reporter. In any family law matter, each case is different and as a result, the outcome of your case may be far different than the outcome in your neighbor’s, friend’s or relative’s case. You cannot rely upon the results someone else achieved and assume that your case will have the same results. There may be a different judge, opposing attorney or mediator in the case, and the facts in your case may be very different from someone else’s case. Therefore, you should look to your attorney for legal advice and information. Your friends and relatives usually do not have a grasp for the law and your case, and accepting their advice may hinder you in the long run.
If you are unable to afford an attorney, you can contact Emerald Coast Legal Aid at
850-432-2336.