Central Florida Mediation Group

Why I Choose to Mediate

I have a storied history as a judge in every division of the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court, and am no stranger to the frustration, pain, anxiety and tumult involved in court cases. Even those cases that appear simple to outsiders can be heart-wrenching to the litigants, and the longer the trial goes on, the more emotionally and financially tapped the parties become. In the most angst-ridden cases, even a winning judgment can feel insufficient to repair the damage the process has caused.

Mediation and Arbitration offer genuine alternatives to going to trial. I believe that most cases can be reasonably settled with the help of an experienced, talented and compassionate mediator. Ironically, my extensive experience overseeing countless court cases has made me particularly adept at finding ways to help people settle their differences out of court.

Biography

In 1958, I earned my BS Degree in Commerce and Business Administration from the University of Alabama, and went on to receive my Juris Doctor Degree from Stetson University College of Law. In 1971, after years of general practice, I became a Municipal Judge for Lakeland, Florida. That same year I was appointed Polk Country Magistrate Judge and held that office until being elected Circuit Judge in 1973. I served the office until 1998, when I became a Judge of the Second District Court of Appeals.

 I have served in every division of the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court including the office of Chief Judge. I’ve also served on many Florida Bar Committees, including Judicial Administration, Selection and Tenure, Judicial Nominating Procedures, Rules of Judicial Administration, and Criminal Procedures Rules.

I have taught undergraduate and graduate college courses at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida and Florida Southern College in Lakeland.

My lovely wife, Mona, and I have three wonderful daughters, Jacki, Mary Catherine and Miriam Patrice.

Membership and Affiliations

• Board Member, Florida Bar Foundation
• Past Chairman of the Committee of Conduct Governing Judges (Judicial Ethics Committee)
• Elected District Representative, Second District, Conference of Circuit Judges
• Former Chief Judge, Tenth Judicial Court

Rate

2 Party Mediation: $150.00 per party
3 Party Mediation: $120.00 per party
4 or more Party Mediation: $100.00 per party