First and Third Party Insurance Dispute Mediation in Florida

Insurance can be a vital lifeline in difficult times—but when questions arise over coverage, valuation, or responsibility, disputes can quickly become complex and stressful. At Florida Dispute Resolution, LLC, we understand the dynamics of insurance conflicts and offer a thoughtful, informed approach to resolving them.

Led by Katie Hinkle, Esq., an attorney and mediator with experience on both sides of insurance matters, our firm provides mediation services for both first-party and third-party claims throughout Florida. We help participants engage in productive conversations and move towards timely, practical, and mutually acceptable solutions.

First-Party Claims

These involve a policyholder seeking compensation from their own insurance provider for a covered loss. Common disputes include:

• Property damage claims: Related to hurricanes, floods, fires, mold, or water damage—often involving questions of cause, extent, repair scope, and policy interpretation.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: Issues may arise around liability, damage extent, or the impact of policy exclusions or limitations.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Disputes can involve reasonableness of medical treatment, policy limits, or calculations of benefits.
• Homeowner’s insurance: Including disagreements around valuation, exclusions, or loss documentation.

Third-Party Claims

In these cases, a third party seeks compensation through someone else’s insurance policy, often in the context of alleged negligence. Examples include:

• Liability claims from auto accidents: Involving questions about fault, injuries, and damage valuation.
• Premises liability: Such as slip-and-fall cases or accidents on commercial or residential properties.
• Product liability: Claims related to alleged defects or inadequate warnings.
• Professional liability (malpractice): Matters involving standards of care in professional services.

Each scenario has legal, factual, and emotional dimensions. Mediation allows the parties to better understand one another’s concerns, explore flexible solutions, and move forward without the unpredictability of litigation.

Why Choose Mediation for Insurance Disputes? A Path to Resolution

Litigation, while sometimes necessary, is rarely the ideal solution for resolving insurance disputes. The adversarial nature of court proceedings can escalate conflict, prolong resolution, and incur significant financial and emotional costs. Mediation offers a powerful alternative, providing a structured yet flexible process for parties to communicate, negotiate, and craft mutually acceptable solutions. Here’s why mediation is often the preferred approach:

• Faster Resolution Times: Compared to the lengthy timelines of court cases, mediation is typically a much quicker process, allowing parties to reach a resolution in days or weeks rather than months or years.
• Reduced Legal Expenses: Mediation is significantly more cost-effective than litigation, saving parties substantial sums in legal fees and related expenses.
• Preservation of Relationships: The collaborative nature of mediation helps preserve valuable business relationships by fostering understanding rather than adversarial conflict.
• Greater Control Over the Outcome: Mediation empowers parties to craft creative, tailored solutions rather than leaving the decision in the hands of a judge or jury.
• Confidentiality: Proceedings are confidential, protecting sensitive information and preventing public disclosure of the dispute.
• Flexibility and Customization: The process can be adapted to the unique needs and dynamics of each case, ensuring a more personalized approach.

Our mediation process is meticulously designed to foster open and productive communication. Katie Hinkle, Esq., skillfully guides the parties through structured dialogue to identify key issues, explore solutions, and bridge gaps in understanding—helping them reach mutually agreeable outcomes without protracted court battles.

Katie Hinkle’s Expertise in Insurance Mediation: A Balanced Perspective

Attorney Katie Hinkle, Esq., brings a unique and valuable perspective to insurance dispute mediation. Having represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a wide range of insurance matters, she understands the motivations and concerns of all parties. Her expertise includes:

• Negotiating Settlements for Complex Insurance Claims: Proven track record of securing creative, interest-based solutions in highly complex cases.
• Understanding Policy Language: Deep knowledge of policy interpretation, enabling clear analysis of coverage issues, exclusions, and limitations.
• Navigating Florida Insurance Law: In-depth familiarity with Florida statutes, regulations, and case law governing insurance disputes.
• Early Resolution Strategies: Emphasis on proactive communication and efficient information gathering to resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively.

Katie’s approach is defined by fairness, impartiality, and effective communication—ensuring that parties evaluate legal and practical realities and achieve sustainable resolutions.

Serving Clients Across Florida: Statewide Reach

While based in South Florida, Florida Dispute Resolution, LLC and Katie Hinkle, Esq., serve clients throughout the entire state. Our mediation services are available in:

• Miami-Dade County
• Broward County
• Palm Beach County
• Martin County
• St. Lucie County
• Monroe County
• Collier County
• Lee County
• Charlotte County
• Hillsborough County
• Orange County
• Osceola County
• Brevard County
• Duval County
• Escambia County
• And many more across Florida

Contact Florida Dispute Resolution: Your Path to Resolution

If you are involved in a first or third-party insurance dispute—or anticipate one—mediation offers an effective alternative to litigation. Contact Florida Dispute Resolution, LLC today to schedule a mediation with Katie Hinkle, Esq. You can:

• Email us at to arrange a consultation.
• Call our office at 954-416-8816.
• Visit our online calendar for seamless scheduling.

We’re ready to help you navigate complex disputes with professionalism, fairness, and a focus on meaningful resolution.