Fort Lauderdale Employment Law Mediation Lawyer

Fort Lauderdale Employment Law Mediation Attorney

When companies and employees want to avoid litigation, they turn to mediation. Whether mandated by the court or encouraged, requested by the parties before a case is ever filed, mediation is a common way to resolve disputes quickly and cheaply. If you need help coming to an agreement or even preparing for mediation, a Fort Lauderdale employment law mediation lawyer can serve as a neutral third party to help resolve your workplace dispute.

Why Choose the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A.?

Gary A. Costales founded his law firm over two decades ago after a successful career as an administrative judge and trial attorney within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Certified in labor and employment law by the Florida Bar Association, he joins a selective group of less than 200 attorneys in the state.

His long legal career, knowledge of employment law, and experience litigating on all sides of employment conflicts make Gary A. Costales an excellent choice for resolving your workplace dispute.

What Is Employment Law Mediation?

Employment law mediation is an alternative to litigation for resolving workplace disputes. A neutral third-party mediator steps in to facilitate communication, hear both sides, and help the parties reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Mediation allows all persons involved to have more control over the process, as it’s much less formal than court proceedings. The resolution is just as binding as a judge’s ruling, but getting there is often faster and cheaper.

Mediation is quite prevalent in Broward County, with the 17th Circuit Court reporting 4,412 mediation sessions held in 2024. Mediation isn’t always required, though it is often encouraged. Florida Statutes Chapter 44 sets forth specific circumstances when mediation is required, how mediation shall occur, and what happens when there are breaches of the law.

How an Employment Law Mediation Lawyer Can Help

A Fort Lauderdale employment law mediation attorney can facilitate communication between the involved parties to help reach an agreeable resolution. Whether the workplace dispute involves harassment, discrimination, wage concerns, or wrongful termination, a mediation lawyer gives both sides the opportunity to share their grievances and draft a binding agreement to settle the matter.

More than anything, mediation lawyers can offer creative solutions to problems that may not be available through court intervention. This seems to result in high satisfaction among both employees and employers, with 92% of charging parties and 98% of employers saying they’d use mediation services again to resolve disputes.

The Benefits of Mediation

There are numerous benefits to mediation as opposed to litigation. For one, these sessions are often cheaper and faster than going to court. You don’t have to worry about a packed court calendar, and you save on the cost of attorney fees and legal filings. Because mediation is less formal than court proceedings, there’s also less stress. More than that, mediation is less about beating the other side and more about finding ways for everyone to win.

Similarly, focus on resolution rather than winning allows the parties to maintain a relationship after proceedings. Plus, mediation is confidential, unlike a court case. That means all parties involved can maintain their privacy throughout the employment law mediation case.

FAQs

What Types of Employment Disputes Can Be Resolved Through Mediation in Florida?

In Florida, many types of employment disputes can be resolved through mediation, including discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, contract breaches, and claims of retaliation. This is often more cost-effective and discreet than taking these matters to court. Mediation may not be possible for disputes involving serious safety risks or when authorities are involved.

How Does Mediation Differ From Litigation in Florida Employment Law Cases?

Mediation differs from litigation in employment law cases in several ways. First, mediation is a private way to resolve a dispute, whereas litigation happens in a public court of law. Similarly, mediation resolutions are typically confidential, while cases that go to trial are on the public record. Mediation is also typically cheaper and faster than litigation, as you don’t have to worry about the cost and time of a drawn-out battle in court.

When Is Mediation Required Before Filing an Employment Legal Claim in Florida?

Florida law generally does not require mediation before filing an employment legal claim. While some complaints have prerequisite steps before you can file a lawsuit, such as discrimination cases requiring an initial report to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Florida Commission on Human Relations, no statute specifically requires mediation for employment disputes.

However, your employment contract may require mediation before legal action. These requirements are often enforceable.

How Does a Florida Employment Law Mediation Lawyer Help During the Mediation Process?

An Employment law mediation lawyer can be an invaluable ally throughout the mediation process. They can help you prepare for questions and coach you through managing your emotions so you can stick to the facts. What’s more, an attorney can offer you legal advice throughout the process and help you evaluate your damages so you can approach negotiations from a place of strength. They can also facilitate communication on your behalf.

Hire an Employment Law Mediation Lawyer for Your Workplace Dispute

If you’re involved in a workplace dispute, it may be time to hire an employment law mediation lawyer. An attorney can act as a neutral third-party facilitator, helping everyone involved voice their concerns and work towards a mutually beneficial agreement. At the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., we know how stressful litigation can be, and that’s why we work to reach resolutions before a trial is ever necessary.

Gary A. Costales is a certified mediator with decades of experience in employment law. From disputes at Fortune 500 companies to conflicts at local municipalities, Mr. Costales has a diverse background. He knows what it takes to comply with employment law and mediation laws, and he can help resolve your workplace issue. Contact the Law Offices of Gary A. Costales, P.A., today to learn more about our services and find out how our legal team can help you.