Local Rule 16.3: Mediation

Rule 16.3 Mediation The Court may order the parties to mediate a civil case. The parties may agree to mediate a civil case even when the Court has not ordered them to do so. Mediation must be conducted in accordance with the Rules for Certified and Court-Appointed Mediators adopted by the Florida Supreme Court, except as otherwise ordered, but this sentence does not apply to a settlement conference—even if called "mediation"—conducted by a district or magistrate judge. Everything said during a mediation or settlement conference—other than the terms of any settlement agreement itself—is confidential and inadmissible as a settlement negotiation.