Child Time Sharing in Orlando: What if My Mediator Is Not a Lawyer?

If you have chosen to resolve child custody in Orlando via mediation, you may be wondering who to choose as your mediator. Like most parents, you’re probably new to this legal process. What happens if you choose a mediator who has no qualifications as a lawyer? Is this the right decision, or should you rely on someone with a law degree?

Florida Family Law Mediators Do Not Need to Be Lawyers

Although many family law mediators are in fact lawyers, a legal degree is not required to mediate a child custody case. According to the Florida Courts, a mediator requires 100 “points” and a bachelor’s degree of some kind.

Florida’s point system for family law mediators involves various categories. The first category is “education,” which includes various levels spanning from high school diplomas to doctorates. A family law mediator needs at least 25 points and a bachelor’s degree. Alternatively, they may have 20 points for education plus mediation experience or a certificate in conflict resolution.

A mediator gets 30 points for successfully completing the Florida Supreme Court family mediation training program, which is mandatory. Finally, a family law mediator must acquire 40 points for mentorship to qualify. Mentorship typically involves observing experienced mediators in action. A mediator may earn additional points for relevant education or “miscellaneous activities.”

Should I Hire a “Non-Lawyer” for Child Custody Mediation?

The decision of who to choose as your child custody mediator is completely up to you. Many feel that lawyers have more knowledge of family law, and they are therefore more qualified to provide effective guidance. Others may feel that lawyers are capable of drafting more effective settlement agreements due to their familiarity with contract law.

That said, spouses might prefer to work with someone outside the legal world for various reasons. Perhaps they don’t trust lawyers, or maybe they’d rather work with someone who feels more down-to-earth. Many mediators who lack legal degrees charge less, although this is not always the case.

Work With a Mediator You Feel You Can Trust

The presence of a law degree is not the only factor you should be considering when choosing a mediator. Instead, consider selecting a mediator you feel you can work with. Choose someone you can trust, and consider scheduling consultations with multiple candidates before making your final decision.

Discuss Your Options With an Orlando Child Time Sharing Attorney

If you’re wondering whether you need to work with a mediator who has a family law degree, why not schedule a consultation with a child time sharing lawyer in Orlando to discuss this subject in more detail? Steve Marsee, P.A. is a Florida Supreme Court certified family law mediator, and can guide you through the mediation process if you wish. Contact us today to learn more about your options.

Sources:

 flcourts.gov/Services/alternative-dispute-resolution/mediation/mediator-certification-qualifications-resources

flcourts-media.flcourts.gov/content/download/1998036/file/FRC&CAM_01.2025%20ADA.pdf