New Clients and Non-Mediation Matters
There is no charge for initial conferences with clients to discuss representation. Matters are handled on either an hourly fee or a contingent fee. Contingent fees (based on a percentage of recovery) are generally used in personal injury cases. Commercial litigation can either be on an hourly fee or contingent fee depending on the issues and whether representing a Plaintiff or Defendant. All questions can be answered in the initial conference.
MEDIATION MATTERS
MEDIATION RATE AND BILLING: My hourly rate in this matter is $260.00 per hour, regardless of the number of parties. The cost of mediation is to be equally apportioned among the parties. For this purpose, each group represented by a different attorney is deemed a separate party.
ADMINISTRATIVE FEE: A charge equal to one hour will be assessed as an administrative fee for scheduling, preparation of notices and other documents and review of mediation statements, etc.
PAYMENT OF FEE: Payment in full is expected at the conclusion of the mediation session or at least within ten days of the mediation session. In the absence of prior approval, the attorney for each party will be responsible for payment of any and all fees.
PREPARATION: Mediation presents a unique and valuable opportunity to settle disputes. Make the most of the process by assisting me in properly preparing for the mediation. Preparation is always helpful in getting the mediation session off to a productive start. I make every effort to review the court file, and will review any material you submit before the mediation session. It would be most helpful if you send any documents or materials for review at least three (3) days before the mediation. Preferred method of delivery is via e-mail: jgreen@ocalamediator.com. Facsimile, U.S. Mail or Overnight Delivery are also acceptable.
CANCELLATION FEE: A three-hour minimum charge will be assessed if the mediation session is cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled date.
TRAVEL OUTSIDE MARION COUNTY: In the event that the mediation session is being held outside of Marion County, there will be no charge for travel. However, unless agreed in writing to the contrary, there will be a minimum of five hours charged for the mediation session. In the event that the actual mediation exceeds five hours, charges being at the time set in the notice for the start of mediation and end when it is completed.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES: On rare occasions mediators are required to testify. On such occasions, or if requested to testify with agreement from all parties, the same hourly rate as was charged for the mediation, as well as billing policies, shall apply, including the administrative fee, travel time charges and cancellation charges. In addition, any time expended for collection of the mediation fee (collection time is considered as being due on the 31st day following the mediation) will be billable at the hourly rate charged for the mediation.
CONDUCT OF THE MEDIATION: It is specifically understood that, unless provided otherwise in writing before the scheduled mediation session, pre-suit and state court mediations will be conducted pursuant to Chapter 44, Florida Statutes, Florida Rule of Civil Procedure, Sections 1.700-1.730, and any applicable court orders and rules. Family law mediations shall be conducted pursuant to Chapter 44, Florida Statutes as well as Chapter 61, Florida Statutes and any related family law rules and court orders. Federal court mediations, including pre-suit, shall be conducted pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and local federal rules applicable to mediation, as well as any applicable court orders.