“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” Albert Einstein.
Rochen Mediation is a full-service alternative dispute resolution firm servicing Florida state-wide. In addition to holding in-person mediations and arbitrations at our offices, we frequently accommodate our clients’ needs by holding in-person mediations and arbitrations at suitable alternative locations throughout the state. We also routinely conduct virtual mediations and arbitrations via Zoom videoconference.
In contrast to traditional dispute resolution practices, our approach to ADR involves a collaborative effort dedicated to helping opposing parties identify and focus on respective interests rather than clouded partisan positions. When there is conflict, defenses naturally become elevated, often-times resulting in position overshadowing interest. At Rochen Mediation, we provide a safe and supportive environment, which allows us to assist the parties with breaking down their defenses and revealing their true interests. We utilize a directed approach to gather information through empathetic interaction, and focus on educating the parties in relation to the various perspectives, motivations and concerns driving the conflict from all sides. We do not simply move from room-to-room communicating offers; rather, we spend time with each party exploring the facts, potential legal issues affecting their position, and the risks associated with proceeding to trial as opposed to self-determination. Although impartiality is an integral part of the process, we work hard to ensure that the parties gain a solid understanding of the cost/benefit analysis associated with their case.
Consider a scenario involving three individuals fighting over the rights to a parcel of land. After months of fighting, the individuals agree to engage in mediation. At the mediation, it is determined that one of them wants to live on the land, another wants to harvest the natural resources from the land, and the third wants the profit from the sale of the land. In such situation, it is possible for all three individuals to have their interests met. Revealing respective interests in a conflict is a primary focus at Rochen Mediation.
Of course, we understand that it is not always possible to satisfy all interests involved in a dispute. In such circumstance, we employ an artful and in-depth approach focused on helping the parties find common ground and reach an amicable compromise. Through patience, persistence and diligence, creative resolution alternatives are possible.
We encourage attorneys to direct their clients to our website prior to mediation, which will help them to understand the ADR process and what to expect. We are also happy to answer any questions a particular client may have prior to mediation.
ajr@rochenmediation.com
Andrew J. Rochen is a Supreme Court certified circuit, county, family, and appellate court mediator, as well as a Supreme Court qualified arbitrator. Prior to opening Rochen Mediation, Mr. Rochen was a shareholder in a large state-wide Florida law firm, where he was engaged in an extensive state and federal civil litigation and trial practice. In addition to chairing the litigation division of his former law firm, Mr. Rochen focused his personal practice on litigating various types of cases arising out of general tort liability, transportation liability, professional liability, government liability, business disputes, property damage, and real estate transactions. He also routinely litigated high-exposure matters involving catastrophic losses, including cases involving wrongful death, brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Mr. Rochen has significant experience handling cases from pre-suit through trial and has trial experience at both the state and federal levels. He has served as counsel for both plaintiffs and defendants, and has had the benefit of direct interaction with dozens of insurance companies during the course of his career, providing him a unique understanding as to how the insurance industry and respective insurance carriers view the litigation and settlement processes. He is intimately familiar with the emotional, psychological, and financial costs associated with prolonged litigation, and understands the advantages of resolving a legal dispute in the conference room rather than the courtroom. Mr. Rochen’s overall experience affords him a unique perspective into the mediation process.
In addition to working as a mediator / arbitrator, Mr. Rochen remains actively involved in the Florida legal community, spending much of his time offering lectures to respective legal professionals regarding the myriad of issues that arise out of Florida litigation.