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Read the mediation order or referral for the selection window, completion deadline, and cost split
Agree on the mediator within the order's window
If the parties do not agree in time, the court appoints.
Serve any pre-mediation certification the rule or order requires
In circuit civil, appearance certifications are commonly due ten days before the session under Rule 1.720.
Appear with full settlement authority
Rule 1.720 requires the party (or an authorized representative) and, where applicable, an insurer representative with authority — not just counsel.
Keep mediation communications confidential
Sections 44.401–44.406, Florida Statutes, make mediation communications confidential with narrow exceptions.
Handle the mediator's report and any agreement per Rule 1.730
Reduce agreements to writing at the table; filing and enforcement run through the rule.
Steps marked “check the division's instructions” vary by judge — that variance is exactly what BenchPath tracks. Search your county and division for the specific requirements before relying on the generic sequence. Not legal advice.