Business Mediation & Arbitration in South Florida
A business dispute does not always need a courtroom trial. Understand your options for negotiating a resolution or presenting your case to an arbitrator.
Discuss Your DisputeA practical path forward
Keep the focus on your business
Contract disagreements, unpaid obligations, and ownership disputes can take attention away from running a company. Mediation and arbitration offer different ways to address those conflicts.
Matthew Fornaro assists businesses in Coral Springs, Parkland, Broward County, and throughout South Florida with dispute resolution. Start by reviewing the agreement, the issues in dispute, and any deadlines that affect your next step.
Know the difference
Two processes. Different decisions.
Mediation: negotiate an agreement
A neutral mediator helps the parties discuss the dispute and explore settlement. The mediator does not decide who wins or force either side to accept a proposal.
The parties control whether to settle and on what terms. Mediation may be voluntary or required by a contract or court order.
Arbitration: present the dispute
An arbitrator hears the parties’ positions and evidence, then issues a decision under the applicable rules.
Arbitration may be binding or nonbinding. The agreement, governing law, and type of proceeding determine the effect of the decision and the available review.
Before the first session
Prepare around the issues that matter
Good preparation begins with a clear timeline, the documents supporting each position, and a realistic understanding of the business’s goals.
A dispute-resolution clause may specify notice requirements, a forum, or steps that must come before a lawsuit. Review those terms early. If a court case is already underway, see our business litigation services.
Experience in dispute resolution
Matthew Fornaro’s qualifications
Matthew Fornaro is a Florida Supreme Court Certified County Mediator, a Florida Supreme Court Qualified Arbitrator, and a FINRA Arbitrator.
A neutral’s role is distinct from an attorney’s role representing one party. When contacting the firm, let us know whether you are seeking legal representation or a neutral mediator or arbitrator so the appropriate role and availability can be discussed.
Learn more about Matthew FornaroMediation & arbitration questions
Does mediation require me to settle?
No. Participation may be required, but the mediator cannot impose a settlement. A signed settlement agreement can create enforceable obligations, so understand its terms before signing.
Is every arbitration decision binding?
No. Some proceedings are binding and others are nonbinding. Review the arbitration clause, any court order, and the applicable rules to understand the effect of an award and any deadlines to challenge it or seek further proceedings.
Can mediation happen after a lawsuit is filed?
Yes. Mediation can take place before or during litigation and may be ordered by the court. A pending mediation does not automatically suspend other case deadlines.
Are these processes always faster or less expensive?
No. Timing and cost depend on the issues, the parties, the selected process, and the work required. Consider those factors alongside confidentiality rules, business relationships, and the ability to enforce a resolution.
What if we cannot reach a settlement?
The next step depends on your contract and the status of the dispute. It may involve further negotiation, arbitration, or litigation. An unsuccessful mediation does not itself decide the merits of the case.
Discuss the next step for your dispute
Contact Matthew Fornaro, P.A. to discuss your business dispute and the process that may apply.
Request a ConsultationOr call 954-324-3651.