Is Mediation Available for Small Claims Cases in Florida?
Direct Answer
Yes. Florida small claims courts may refer cases to mediation, often during or around the pretrial conference, using volunteer or court-roster mediators.
Yes. Florida Small Claims Rule 7.090 expressly authorizes the court to refer small claims cases (currently up to USD 8,000 in controversy) to mediation. Most county courts have a small claims mediation program staffed by volunteer or court-roster mediators. The session is typically scheduled on the same day as the pretrial conference, and the mediator meets with both parties — often without attorneys present — in an informal setting. The process is free or very low cost (usually USD 30–USD 60 per party) and takes 30 to 90 minutes. Common small claims disputes include landlord-tenant security deposit disagreements, consumer product and service complaints, minor auto accidents, and unpaid contractor invoices. If the parties reach agreement, the mediator drafts a written settlement agreement that is signed on the spot and filed with the court. If no agreement is reached, the case is returned to the judge for trial. Parties in small claims court are not required to have an attorney, and the informal nature of small claims mediation makes it particularly accessible to self-represented litigants.