Small Claims and Consumer Mediation
Disputes over purchases, services, and amounts owed are often too small to justify a long fight. Mediation helps people settle them quickly and on terms they can live with.
What these disputes look like
Consumer disputes arise between customers and the businesses they buy from, or between individuals. They may involve a defective product, a service that was not completed, a disputed account balance, or money loaned between friends or family. In Florida, small claims cases generally involve amounts up to $8,000, and many county courts send these cases to mediation.
Because the amounts are smaller, the cost of time off work, travel, and a court hearing can quickly outweigh what is at stake. Mediation gives both sides a chance to explain what happened, understand each other's view, and reach a practical agreement, often in a single session.
Common issues in these disputes
- Defective products and returns
- Services not completed or done poorly
- Account and balance disputes
- Auto repair and home service disagreements
- Money loaned between individuals
- Deposits and refunds
- Payment plans for amounts owed
Two examples
Example 1: An auto repair bill
The situation. A car owner pays $3,400 for a transmission repair. Two months later, the same problem returns. The shop says the new issue is unrelated and wants another $1,200 to fix it. The owner wants a refund and has filed a small claims case.
How mediation helps. In mediation, the owner and the shop can each explain what they saw and why. The mediator helps them focus on what each needs to resolve the matter, such as a partial refund, a discounted repair, or an independent inspection. Because it is often quicker than a hearing, both sides save time, and any agreement is written down that day.
Example 2: A loan between friends
The situation. One friend lent another $6,000 to help start a business, with only a few text messages about repayment. The business struggled, and the borrower says the money was more of an investment. The lender wants the full amount back.
How mediation helps. The mediator provides a calm setting for a difficult conversation. Each person can explain what they understood the arrangement to be. The mediator helps them look at realistic options, such as a payment plan, and consider what matters to them beyond the money, including whether they want to preserve the friendship.
How mediation can help
Faster answers
Many disputes can be discussed and settled in a single session, instead of months of letters, demands, or a lawsuit.
Lower cost
A few hours of mediation typically costs far less than litigation.
A calmer conversation
A neutral person helps keep the discussion respectful and focused.
A confidential setting
What is said in mediation generally stays in mediation, so people can speak more openly about what matters to them.
You stay in control
Nobody can impose a result. A settlement happens only if both sides agree to it.
Please note: The mediator is neutral, does not represent any party, and does not give legal advice. You are welcome to bring an attorney. The examples above are illustrative, are not real cases, and do not predict the outcome of any dispute.
Schedule your mediation
Pick a date on the live calendar, or reach out with questions about your case, timing, or format.