Are you considering Pro Se Divorce in Florida?

Date Posted: August 30, 2021 12:46 pm

When parents or a couple want to decide the terms of their own divorce or parenting plan, they are able to use a process provided by the courts for Pro Se Divorce.   This process does not require that the parties hire lawyers and the parties can file the necessary papers themselves.  

When a couple cannot agree on the terms, or need assistance in ensuring that all parts of the process are followed correctly, they can engage in the services of a trained Mediator.   A Mediator will facilitate the difficult conversation, guide the parties through the topics that need to be addressed, and provide input as to different options to accomplish their intentions.

IS MEDIATION RIGHT FOR YOU?

Mediation is a valuable alternative for people who:

• Know that they plan to move forward with a divorce or creation of a Parenting Plan
• Do not agree on all terms and need a safe and objective discussion
• Want to make sure all potential problems that could occur are considered.
• Would like ideas on the ways other people might address their concerns.
• Intend to create an enforceable agreement based on what the courts consider important.
• Want to retain the option for a lawyer or financial professional to review the agreement

WHY CHOOSE MEDIATION:

The unique tenants of mediation include:

• A neutral trained professional to lead the discussion
• Control and decision-maker is in the hands of the parties
• No pressure to come to any terms or agreement that a party does not want
• Confidentiality so that others don’t learn of any offers or personal information

Because the parties are the ones who decide the terms of any settlement that is reached, not the Mediator, there is NO RISK in attending to have a difficult conversation.

Mediation is a preferred means of settling terms of a divorce or parenting issues. 

Mediation is:

• Cheaper
• Quicker
• Confidential
• Allows the parties to retain control

TYPES OF PROBLEMS THAT MEDIATION CAN ADDRESS:

• Child Support Payments, including modification
• Custody, visitation and timesharing
• Alimony (spousal support)
• Distribution of Property and Debts
• Claiming Children as Tax Credits
• Communication between Parents and between Parents and children
• Restoration of Former Name
• Marital and non-marital assets
• Sale of Marital Home and distribution of equity

COSTS

Since each party is not paying an attorney for their services, the only costs will be for the services of the mediator and the filing fee.

Mediation Costs:

1. Mediation Session:   $250 per hour with a two-hour minimum
2. Preparation of Enforceable Settlement Agreement:    $600
3. Preparation of Documents to file for Uncontested Divorce or Parenting Plan:     $750
4. Filing Fee (to be paid to court)         $409

Payment can be made by Cash, check, credit card, Venmo, PayPal or Zelle.  Payment is expected at the beginning of each step in the process, not all at once.

VIRTUAL MEDIATION SESSIONS:

Mediations are conducted virtually for convenience and comfort.   Parties do not need to be in the presence of each other and have more flexibility in scheduling.   Torres Mediation conducts the mediations through the Zoom platform, which allows for long-distance participation from the comfort of one’s home or office.

\If unfamiliar with Zoom, you can request a practice run before the mediation session to become acquainted with the features.

WHY CHOOSE  PRO SE DIVORCE MEDIATION?

Complexity of process

Familiarity with law and court procedures

Demand in Melbourne, Vero Beach

Other professionals (attorneys, financial planner, Realtor) can participate at option of the parties