Think a handshake seals the deal? In Florida civil litigation, good-faith negotiation is a legal requirement—not just a courtesy. Courts expect parties to genuinely attempt to resolve disputes before and during litigation, and failing to do so can have serious consequences.
Florida Statute § 44.102 and Fla. R. Civ. P. 1.730 set the standard for mediation and settlement talks. These rules require parties to participate honestly, respond promptly, and consider reasonable offers. Judges can sanction parties who stall, mislead, or refuse to engage in real negotiation. That means ignoring deadlines, playing games, or treating negotiation as a checkbox can backfire—resulting in penalties, lost leverage, and even unfavorable rulings.
In real life, good-faith negotiation looks like timely communication, transparent sharing of information, and a willingness to compromise when appropriate. Our firm sees cases derailed by parties who don’t take this seriously. Florida courts want genuine effort because it saves time, money, and preserves relationships. If you’re facing a dispute, understanding and following these rules can make or break your case.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, and laws and legal interpretations may change after the date of publication.
Written by:
Gil Sánchez, Esq.
CEO | Civil Trial Attorney
Black Rock Trial Lawyers
Abogados Law
