Mediation for Non-Traditional Families in Tampa

Cohabitation · Unmarried Parents 
Same-Sex Couples · Blended Families

Family law does not always reflect family realities. Florida now recognizes same sex marriage, but Florida is still behind the learning curve when it comes to child custody. The state of Florida does not automatically acknowledge fathers when a child is born out of wedlock and same sex spouses may not have the same custody rights heterosexual married couples have.

No matter what the law says, the adults and children in non-traditional families often face the same conflicts as “regular” families. Yet many times, the family dynamics create unique legal problems or the shortcomings in the law prevent the courts from arriving at a sensible solution.

Attorney/mediator, Beth Reineke of Reineke Mediations, welcomes non-traditional couples and families throughout the Tampa Bay Area. She draws on more than 30 years of legal knowledge and problem-solving experience to resolve conflicts through mediation. Ms. Reineke is Certified by the Florida Supreme Court to conduct family law, custody and divorce mediations.

Clearwater Lawyer for Same-Sex Divorce Mediation

We regularly handle divorce and custody matters for clients in non-traditional families and relationships. The mediators at Reineke Mediations can address:

• Unmarried couples dealing with paternity, child support and co-parenting
• Older couples who are cohabitating but not married
• Same sex couples seeking a divorce or splitting up
• Blended families dealing with stepchildren and divorce

Same-sex couples or senior citizens who are living together without the legal ties of marriage may encounter barriers when they split up. Property, debts and retirement savings acquired together are not subject to Florida’s equitable distribution law. In the absence of a property settlement agreement, these couples may resort to litigation. Likewise, LGBTQIA parents or stepparents in second marriages may end up in court over child custody and child support matters.

Mediation offers a forum to resolve these complex and emotional issues without the expense and uncertainty of litigation. While mediated sessions are apart from the legal system, Beth Reineke applies her knowledge of family law and the family law process to help clients arrive at fair and practical solutions.

• See our Divorce Mediation FAQ.