Frequently Asked Questions

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential dispute resolution process in which a neutral third party — the mediator — facilitates communication between disputing parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator does not impose a decision. Instead, the mediator guides the discussion and helps the parties explore solutions on their own terms.

Most mediation sessions last between three and eight hours, depending on the complexity of the dispute and the number of issues involved. Some matters resolve in a single session, while others may require follow-up sessions. The mediator works with all parties to ensure adequate time for productive discussion.

The mediation process itself is not binding — either party may withdraw at any time. However, if the parties reach an agreement and sign a written settlement, that agreement becomes a legally enforceable contract. In court-ordered mediations, a signed settlement agreement may be incorporated into a court order.

Supreme Mediation handles a wide range of civil disputes including general negligence, breach of contract, civil rights claims, commercial litigation, construction disputes, employment matters, discrimination, personal injury, premises liability, wrongful death, planning and zoning, and code enforcement. Darcee S. Siegel's extensive government law background provides particular depth in public sector and municipal disputes.

Mediation is typically a fraction of the cost of taking a case to trial. While litigation involves months or years of discovery, depositions, and court appearances, mediation condenses the resolution process into one or a few sessions. The mediation fee is generally shared between the parties.

Yes. Under Florida Statutes Section 44.405, all mediation communications are confidential and inadmissible as evidence in any subsequent legal proceeding. This includes statements made during joint sessions and private caucuses. This confidentiality encourages candid dialogue and creative problem-solving.

While attorney representation is not required for all types of mediation, it is generally recommended — particularly in complex disputes involving significant legal or financial issues. Your attorney can provide legal advice during the process, help evaluate settlement offers, and ensure that any agreement protects your interests.

If the parties do not reach an agreement during mediation, they retain all of their legal rights and may proceed with litigation or other dispute resolution methods. Nothing discussed during mediation can be used against either party in court. The impasse is reported to the court if the case was court-ordered, but no details about the discussions are disclosed.

Yes. Supreme Mediation offers remote mediation sessions via secure video conference platforms. Remote mediation provides the same structured process and confidentiality protections as in-person sessions, with the added convenience of allowing participants to attend from any location.

Darcee S. Siegel is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Civil Circuit Mediator certified to practice in all judicial circuits of the state. She holds a J.D. from Mercer University School of Law and a B.A. from Tulane University. She is admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, and the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. She has over 30 years of public sector legal experience, including service as City Attorney for the City of North Miami Beach.