Frequently Asked Questions

What services are offered?

Leslie Family Solutions provides family and county court mediation, social investigations, and court ready evaluations throughout Florida.

Do you offer virtual services?

Yes. Mediation is available via secure video (Zoom) depending on the needs of the case and court requirements.

Who do you work with?

I specialize in working with Pro Se (self-represented) parties, as well as attorneys and court-appointed cases. For Social Investigations, a court order is typically required before the study can begin. For Private Mediation, parties may schedule directly without a court order if both agree to participate.

What areas of Florida do you serve?

Services are available statewide. In-person availability may vary by county; virtual sessions are available across Florida.

What are your qualifications?

Services are led by a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family & County Mediator and Social Investigator, with a professional focus on neutrality, accuracy, and discretion.

Where can I learn more about you?

You can explore other sections of this website, such as the "About" page to learn more about the company and mission.

General Questions

Mediation

What is family mediation?

Family mediation is a structured, confidential process where a neutral mediator helps parties resolve issues such as parenting plans, timesharing, communication protocols, and division of responsibilities without going to trial.

Do I need an attorney for mediation?

An attorney is not required, but parties may choose to have counsel present or available for consultation. Legal advice is not provided by the mediator.

How long does mediation take?

The duration of mediation varies based on the complexity of the case. Our office typically schedules either half-day or full-day sessions, with the option to add additional time if needed.

What happens if we don’t reach an agreement?

If full agreement is not reached, partial agreements can still be documented, and unresolved issues may proceed through the court process.

Is mediation confidential?

Yes. Mediation is confidential under Florida law, including applicable court rules and statutes. Communications made during mediation are not admissible in court and may not be disclosed to others, except as specifically permitted or required by law.

What should I prepare for mediation?

Bring or submit relevant documents (e.g., proposed parenting schedules, school calendars, medical needs), a list of priorities, and any requested forms sent prior to the session..

Court & Social Investigations

What is a social investigation?

A social investigation is a court ordered evaluation that examines family dynamics, parental capacities, and child needs to assist the court in making informed decisions for the best interest of the child.

What does the process involve?

The investigation may include interviews, home visits, record review, collateral contacts, and a written report submitted per court requirements.

How long does the investigation take?

Timelines vary by case scope and court deadlines. Most investigations are completed within 30–45 days once all information and access are provided. Expedited timelines may be discussed when appropriate.

Is neutrality maintained?

All evaluations are conducted with neutrality, discretion, and a focus on objective, fact-based findings to support fair outcomes.

Will the report be submitted to the court?

When ordered or agreed, a court ready report is prepared and submitted according to court rules and case instructions.

What information is needed?

Expect to provide court orders, pleadings or motions, relevant school/medical records, schedules, and contact information for collateral sources, as applicable.

Fees & Payment

How are fees split?

Unless otherwise agreed upon or if court ordered, fees are divided equally between the parties.

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, debit, credit card, and electronic transfer. Payment details are provided at the time of scheduling.

How are mediation fees calculated?

Mediation sessions are billed in minimum time blocks to ensure fair scheduling and efficiency. Fees are based on the actual time spent and any related costs. Payment is due at the time of the session unless prior arrangements are made in writing.

Are there ethical rules about fees I should know?

Yes. Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediators follow strict ethical rules:

• Charge only for services provided or previously disclosed pre-mediation work

• Bill in minimum time blocks or for actual time spent

• Fully disclose all fees and policies in writing before mediation

• Never charge contingent fees based on the outcome

Can I be charged for work performed before mediation?

Yes. An administrative fee equivalent to one hour of time will be charged for work completed on your case before and after the mediation session.

What is a minimum time block?

A minimum time block is the smallest unit of time for which a mediation session is billed. This ensures fairness for everyone and helps us schedule efficiently. The length and fee for the minimum block are disclosed before your session.

Who is responsible for paying for the social investigation?

Under Florida Statute § 61.20, the parents are typically responsible for the costs of the investigation and study. The judge has the discretion to decide how the fee is split between parents based on their respective abilities to pay.

When is payment for the investigation due?

Payment is required upfront before the investigator begins the evaluation. In many Florida circuits, parties must submit payment within 15 business days of receiving notice of the investigator’s assignment to avoid delays or status conferences with the court.

Are there extra costs beyond the initial investigation report?

The initial fee usually covers the standard investigation and final report. However, additional services such as court appearances, depositions, or requested supplemental proceedings are typically subject to the professional’s standard hourly rates and are paid for by the requesting party.

What additional expenses might I incur during the investigation?

Beyond the base fee for the study and report, parties are typically responsible for "extraordinary costs." This may include travel expenses for out-of-county visits, fees for obtaining certified records (medical, school, or criminal), or costs for specialized drug or psychological testing if recommended by the investigator and ordered by the court.

Scheduling, Cancellations & Rescheduling

How do I schedule a session or investigation?

Use the Contact page to request dates. You’ll receive a confirmation with intake forms, payment instructions, and any required documents.

Court-ordered timelines

Court-ordered matters may require priority scheduling. Please provide court orders and deadlines at the time of booking.

What is your cancellation policy?

If a session is canceled, prepaid fees cannot be kept for services that did not happen. However, you may apply your payment to a rescheduled session.

Can I reschedule a session?

Yes. Prepaid fees may be applied to a new session date. Any work already performed, like reviewing documents, preparing forms, or scheduling may only be billed if it was disclosed in writing prior to your original session.

Can mediation be canceled by one party?

No. Mediation cannot be unilaterally canceled by a single party; any changes or cancellations must be agreed upon by all involved parties.

Professional Standards & Boundaries

Do you provide legal advice?

No. As a mediator and social investigator, legal advice is not provided. You may consult with an attorney at any time.

Conflicts of interest

If a conflict of interest exists, it will be disclosed and addressed promptly. Cases may be referred out when appropriate.

Accessibility

Virtual accommodations and accessible formats can be arranged. Please indicate any specific needs during intake.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

Ready to move forward? Schedule today to explore mediation solutions and court-compliant investigations tailored to your family, business, or legal matter in Florida.