Voluntary Trial Resolution in Florida
A streamlined process that treats your case like the only one on the docket — because it is
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ON VOLUNTARY TRIAL RESOLUTION
ON VOLUNTARY TRIAL RESOLUTION
A streamlined process that treats your case like the only one on the docket — because it is
If you've ever been number 25 on a 50-case trial docket, you’re already familiar with the problem. In Florida’s overcrowded civil courts, hearings are typically delayed for months and trial dates are frequently postponed with short notice. This translates to delays, unpredictability, rising costs and unhappy clients.
Voluntary trial resolution (commonly known as private judging) allows a different path. Think of it as concierge justice. Your trial doesn’t compete for space on an overloaded calendar — it is the main event.
Under Florida Statute Section 44.104, parties in a civil case can agree to have their dispute resolved by a judge they choose while still retaining the right to a jury trial in a public courtroom and to appeal the final judgment. This method preserves the structure and legitimacy of courtroom litigation without the institutional drag.
Why choose voluntary trial resolution?
• Efficiency without compromise.
• Hearings can be set as soon as motions are fully briefed.
• Orders are drafted by the judge, not opposing counsel.
• Trials receive dedicated, special-set dates.
• Scheduling is based on your case alone, not hundreds or thousands of others.
What stays the same?
• Trials can still take place in a public courtroom.
• All filings are made through Florida’s e-filing portal.
• Final judgments remain appealable.
• You get the legal integrity of a courtroom with the control and responsiveness of a voluntary process.
Our approach
At Private Resolutions, our neutrals are former Florida circuit court judges with deep experience managing complex litigation. We bring the same impartiality, authority and professionalism you’d expect in any Florida courtroom with the benefit of dedicated time and attention to your case.
Whether your case involves a bench or jury trial, voluntary trial resolution provides a way to stay on schedule, maintain control and resolve disputes without unnecessary delay.
If you’re ready to move forward or still exploring, we can help clarify the process.
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Binding and non-binding arbitration services are available for the resolution of complex legal disputes. We offer articulate, record-based decisions consistent with law and precedent.
We are available to serve as court appointed special magistrates under Rule 1.490, Fla.R.Civ.P., in any matter for which a special magistrate may be appointed including resolving discovery and privilege issues.
Once appellate briefs have been filed, we are available to serve as judges in practice oral arguments to assist attorneys in refining their arguments.
“No preparation for oral argument is as valuable as a moot court in which you’re interrogated by lawyers as familiar with your case as the court is likely to be. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is so effective in bringing to your attention issues that have not occurred to you and in revealing the flaws in your responses to issues you have been aware of.”
Antonin Scalia & Bryan A. Garner, Making Your Case: The Art of Persuading Judges 158 (2008).
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