Start with the dispute and your objectives
The firm’s civil and commercial litigation practice includes representing individuals, partnerships and corporations. If a disagreement concerns a contract, a business obligation or a disputed demand, explain what happened and what you hope to achieve. The office can assess whether the matter falls within its practice and discuss the appropriate next steps.
Review the documents before choosing a strategy
Useful questions include what the parties agreed to, what each side did, what payments were made, and what records support the claimed loss or requested relief. Contracts, amendments, invoices, correspondence and prior settlement discussions can matter. A demand letter, a filed lawsuit and a court order are different documents with different implications. Neither a strongly worded demand nor a disputed allegation establishes the outcome.
Compare negotiation, mediation and litigation
Depending on the facts, the discussion may include negotiating terms, pursuing or defending a claim, or preparing for mediation. In mediation, an impartial mediator helps the parties discuss a resolution but does not decide who wins. An agreement is not guaranteed; unresolved issues may continue through litigation. Consider the evidence, practical costs, time, business relationships and risks before deciding how to proceed. No recovery, dismissal or settlement can be promised.
Prepare for a focused consultation
Gather the complete agreements, relevant messages, payment records, demand letters and all court papers. Prepare a short chronology and identify the people and entities involved. Mention any hearing, response date or other deadline immediately. Do not assume negotiations pause court obligations. Preserve relevant records and ask how to deliver them securely. Confirm the proposed scope of representation and any applicable fees with the office.
This overview concerns civil and commercial disputes. Contacting the office does not itself establish an attorney-client relationship.
General educational source: Florida Courts: Mediation. Checked October 29, 2026.