Court-Annexed Mediation

Mediation is mandatory in virtually every SDFL civil case. Parties select mediator within 14 days of referral order; if no agreement, Clerk appoints from certified list. Mediation no later than 60 days before trial. Default format: videoconference. All parties must participate with full settlement authority. L.R. 16.2.

Exempt Cases

Habeas, §2255 motions, Social Security, civil forfeiture, IRS summons, land condemnation, default proceedings, student loans, naturalization, statutory interpleader, TILA (non-class), letters rogatory, foreign judgment registration.

Timeline

1. Order of referral issued (sets trial/mediation deadline)
2. Parties agree on mediator within 14 days
3. File "Notice of Selection of Mediator" within 14 days
4. If no agreement: plaintiff files "Request For Clerk To Appoint Mediator"
5. Confidential case summaries to mediator 14 days before mediation
6. Mediation no later than 60 days before trial
7. Mediator files Report within 7 days

Participation (L.R. 16.2(e))

All parties + claims professionals with full settlement authority. Entity by representative — not solely outside counsel. Public entities: authority to negotiate and recommend. Non-participation = sanctions.

Mediator Qualifications

10+ years bar admission, Florida Bar + SDFL bar member, circuit court mediator certified, substantial mediation experience. Must accept 2 pro bono/reduced-fee per year.

Confidentiality (L.R. 16.2(g)(2))

Privileged under federal law and FL Stat. §44.405. May not be reported, recorded, or disclosed.