Civil Mediation

Civil litigation can involve substantial legal issues, financial consequences, and uncertainty. Mediation provides parties and counsel with an opportunity to evaluate those considerations, discuss possible resolutions, and retain control over the outcome.

As a former Florida Circuit Court Judge and experienced trial lawyer, Cheryl Caracuzzo brings extensive courtroom and case-management experience to the mediation process. During more than a decade on the bench, she presided over many civil trials involving all aspects of civil litigation. Trial court decisions she entered in complex civil litigation like medical malpractice and bad-faith cases were affirmed on appeal by either the Fourth DCA or the Florida Supreme Court. This experience helped her understanding of the complex legal, evidentiary, and practical issues parties must evaluate during mediation.

Civil Matters Mediated

Cheryl is available to mediate civil disputes involving:

  • Insurance disputes

  • Insurance bad faith

  • Automobile negligence

  • General negligence

  • Premises liability

  • Medical malpractice

  • Nursing home negligence

  • Negligent security/Negligent Hiring

  • Construction defects

  • Product liability

  • Defamation

  • Eminent domain

  • Related civil disputes

An Experienced and Neutral Perspective

Cheryl approaches each mediation thoughtfully, impartially, and with careful attention to the legal and practical issues affecting the dispute.

As a mediator, she does not provide legal advice to either party or decide the outcome. Instead, she helps parties and counsel clarify the issues, examine the risks and costs associated with continued litigation, and explore potential resolutions.

Her judicial experience gives her a practical understanding of courtroom procedure, evidentiary questions, litigation expenses, and the uncertainty that parties may face as a case proceeds toward trial.

Preparing for Civil Mediation

To make the mediation as productive as possible, counsel should be prepared to address:

  • The principal legal and factual issues

  • The current status of discovery

  • Significant evidence and disputed facts

  • Claimed damages and supporting documentation

  • Pending motions or evidentiary issues

  • Insurance or indemnity considerations, when applicable

  • Settlement history

  • Upcoming deadlines and trial dates

  • The participation of individuals with appropriate settlement authority

Specific instructions for submitting mediation materials will be provided after scheduling and completion of the conflict-review process.

Schedule Civil Mediation

Civil mediation is available by Zoom throughout Florida. In-person mediation in South Florida may be arranged when appropriate.

Book Now/View Availability

For unusual scheduling needs or questions concerning the mediation process, please contact Caracuzzo Mediation.

Contact Caracuzzo Mediation