How long should it take to actually get a scheduled mediation date as well as a temporary hearing date after the filing with the clerk of court of the answer with counter-petition from the respondent through attorney to dissolution of marriage petition with motion for temporary support with minor children?
Getting things scheduled is the easy part - less than week. "When" is the hard part. Mediation with private mediator. Less than 30 days. Temp hearing depends on how much time is needed for the hearing . For a thirty minute hearing usually 30 - 45 days. Don't schedule less than is needed and expect the judge to give you extra time. Others are waiting their turn just outside the hearing room. Good luck.
With recent budget cuts it is getting more and more difficult to have civil issues litigated in a timely manner. I agree that scheduling is the easy part, the "when" is the challenge. I would suggest contacting either the clerk or the Judge's judicial assistant, whoever handles scheduling, and also contacting court mediation services or a private mediator to try and get both the radar as soon as possible.
Though it may seem unfair, an experienced attorney in your area could probably get something scheduled faster.
Chris Mulligan
Law Office of Christopher S. Mulligan
161 E. Jefferson St.
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 593-5990
www.naturecoastlawyer.com
Before scheduling mediation and a temporary support hearing, you must make certain that the Respondent has filed his/ her Financial Affidavit and other financial information (mandatory disclosure). If you go to a hearing without verification of income, you may be at a disadvantage at a temporary support hearing. Further, mediation is most effective when you have the necessary information such as pay verification, bank records, pension/ retirement statements, etc. so that these matters can be addressed at mediation. Assuming you have this critical information, then you can get a mediation conference in advance of the court-scheduled Case Management (if in Tampa/ Hillsborough). If you are in need of temporary support and are not receiving any, then you may seek an immediate hearing per the particular judge's protocol which can be found on the judicial 13 website. If you need more information, I do offer a free consultation.
It depends upon a number of things. Do you want to schedule public mediation through the Court or do you want to schedule private mediation? Many times private mediation, although a little more expensive, can be much more effective in producing positive results. I work with several private mediators that charge similar fees to that of the Court mediators.
As for the temporary hearing, what type of relief are you seeking? Time-sharing, child support, alimony ? You may need to make sure you have adequate financial records and a financial affidavit before you get your Motion scheduled and heard. It also depends what division your case is in and how much time you need for the hearing. You can certainly contact my office for a FREE initial consultation at 813-374-0353 www.yourtampadefense.com
