What is a mini-trial?
A mini-trial is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) used in Florida arbitration law that attempts to resolve disputes in a faster and less expensive manner than a traditional court trial. During a mini-trial, representatives from both sides of the dispute meet with an arbitrator to present the facts of the case and their respective arguments. The arbitrator then makes a decision, which is usually legally binding and enforceable. Mini-trials are often used in commercial transactions, such as business disputes, contract disputes, and real estate transactions. They are also used in family law cases, such as divorce proceedings and child custody disputes. The mini-trial process is structured to provide a more efficient resolution than a full-blown court trial. This is due in part to the fact that many of the procedures, such as discovery and motion practice, are eliminated or simplified. Additionally, the parties to the dispute can often suggest their own rules for the mini-trial process that the arbitrator must follow, and the evaluation of evidence may be more relaxed. In Florida, mini-trials are not limited to arbitration proceedings. They may also be decided in a court of law if the parties so choose and the judge permits. In either case, mini-trials offer parties an alternative to a more lengthy and costly traditional trial process while still providing an effective forum for resolving disputes.
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