Civil lawsuits & business mediators in Alachua County, FL

How does mediation work in Alachua County?

Alachua is the one Eighth Judicial Circuit county where court staff mediators conduct most family sessions, with other mediators substituted when needed [1]. Under Administrative Order 5.04, family matters are referred to mediation unless excepted by statute, rule or order [1][3]. To schedule an Alachua family case, call the ADR Administrative Assistant at (352) 491-4417 [1]. Eligibility requires combined gross income under $100,000; the fee is $60 or $120 per person per session, paid to the Clerk beforehand, as Fla. Stat. § 44.108(2) sets [1][4]. Small claims litigants usually get free on-the-spot mediation at pre-trial; other county cases cost $60 per person [2]. Couples at or above $100,000 can choose from the certified mediators below.

1. Eighth Judicial Circuit – Family Mediation
2. Eighth Judicial Circuit – County Civil Mediation
3. Eighth Judicial Circuit Administrative Order 5.04 (Family Mediation Program)
4. Fla. Stat. § 44.108 (Funding of mediation and arbitration)

Fact-checked 2026-10-06. Court programs change; confirm with the clerk.