Make the issues clearer.
Separate immediate frustrations from the decisions that need to be made. An impartial mediator helps each participant communicate concerns and recognize areas of agreement.
A thoughtful approach to resolving disputes
Finding common ground.
Moving forward.
When a disagreement feels difficult to resolve, a constructive conversation can open a different path. Mediation brings structure, perspective, and an impartial voice to that conversation.
Daniel F. Tordella, Esquire
Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator
Florida Bar admission, 1993A foundation in law and dispute resolution
Certified Family MediatorFlorida Supreme Court · No. 29506 F
Florida & ColoradoMediation services from a Denver base
Why mediation
A better conversation.
More room for possibility.
A capable mediator does more than keep a discussion moving. By helping people identify what matters, understand differences, and consider workable options, mediation can create space for progress that direct negotiations have not achieved.
Keep decisions in your hands.
The mediator facilitates; the participants decide. You have the opportunity to explore solutions shaped around your circumstances rather than ask a third party to impose an outcome.
Find a practical way forward.
A structured discussion can help reduce misunderstandings, narrow unresolved issues, and consider flexible arrangements. Mediation may also reduce the time, expense, and strain of continued litigation.
Meet your mediator
Legal experience.
A balanced perspective.
A focus on resolution.
Professional credential
Florida Supreme Court
Certified Family Mediator Daniel F. Tordella · Mediator No. 29506 F
Certified Family Mediator Daniel F. Tordella · Mediator No. 29506 F
Daniel F. Tordella, Esquire
Daniel brings a longstanding legal background to his mediation practice. Admitted to The Florida Bar in 1993, he earned his law degree from Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law that same year.
His professional experience includes family law and family litigation, as well as work involving administrative law, commercial litigation, and insurance defense. He established his own practice in 2001, with much of his subsequent legal work focused on family matters.
Now based in Denver, Daniel offers mediation services for clients in Colorado and Florida. His approach centers on listening carefully, keeping discussions constructive, and helping participants evaluate possible paths toward agreement.
As a mediator, Daniel serves as an impartial facilitator—not as the attorney for either participant. Independent legal advice remains the role of each party’s own counsel.
A considered path toward common ground.
What to expect
Structure for the conversation.
Space for your decisions.
Every dispute is different. The process is organized around the people involved, the questions to be addressed, and the opportunity to explore a voluntary resolution.
Discuss the circumstances.
Start with a conversation about the nature of the dispute, the participants, scheduling, and whether mediation may be appropriate. Availability, fees, and session format are discussed directly.
Clarify concerns and options.
Participants have an opportunity to explain their perspectives. The mediator guides the discussion and may meet with participants jointly or separately to explore concerns and possible solutions.
Choose the next steps.
Participants decide whether to agree to any proposal. Mediation may resolve all issues, some issues, or none. When appropriate, agreed terms are documented for review and signing.
No outcome is guaranteed. Applicable court requirements, confidentiality rules, and agreement procedures depend on the jurisdiction and circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
A little understanding
can make the first step easier.
These answers offer a general introduction. Florida and Colorado have different laws and procedures; Daniel can discuss the process applicable to your mediation.
Ask About MediationWhat does a mediator actually do?
A mediator is a neutral facilitator who helps participants communicate, identify areas of agreement and disagreement, and explore possible resolutions. The mediator does not decide who is right, impose a settlement, or act as either participant’s lawyer.
How is mediation different from a trial or arbitration?
In a trial or arbitration, a judge, jury, or arbitrator decides the dispute. In mediation, the participants retain control over whether to reach an agreement and what terms to accept. The mediator helps the discussion without determining the outcome.
Do I need my own attorney?
Legal representation is not required in every mediation, but independent legal advice can help you understand your rights and evaluate proposed terms. A mediator cannot provide legal advice to the participants. Ask your own attorney about any requirements that apply to your matter.
Is mediation confidential?
Mediation is generally conducted privately, with confidentiality governed by applicable law, court rules, and agreements. Confidentiality has exceptions and should not be assumed to cover every statement or document. Signed agreements may be treated differently from mediation discussions.
Before the session, ask how confidentiality applies to your circumstances and jurisdiction.
How should I prepare?
Organize relevant documents, identify the decisions that need to be made, and consider your priorities. Think about possible solutions and what flexibility you may have. If you have legal questions, consult independent counsel before the session. Daniel can discuss practical arrangements and any requested preparation.
How long will the process take?
The time needed depends on the complexity of the issues, the number of participants, and the progress of the discussion. Some matters can be addressed in a shorter session; others require a full day or more than one meeting. Discuss scheduling and fees before making arrangements.
What happens if we do not reach an agreement?
Mediation does not require participants to accept a proposal. Even without a full agreement, the discussion may clarify concerns or narrow the issues. In a court-connected matter, unresolved issues may continue through the applicable court process. Partial agreements and next steps should be reviewed with your attorney as appropriate.
Does Daniel work with Florida and Colorado clients?
Yes. Daniel is based in Denver and provides mediation services for clients in Florida and Colorado. His stated certification is as a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. Contact him to discuss the matter, location, session format, and any court-specific requirements.
Contact & scheduling
Start with
a conversation.
To discuss mediation availability, scheduling, or whether the process may suit your circumstances, contact Daniel directly.
Based in Denver.
Serving mediation clients in Colorado and Florida.
Telephone954-292-9110
Mailing addressDaniel F. Tordella, Esquire
7722 E 6th Place
Denver, CO 80230-7058
7722 E 6th Place
Denver, CO 80230-7058
Please arrange appointments directly. For an initial inquiry, include your contact information and a brief description of the type of matter. Please do not send confidential case materials or sensitive personal information by email before arrangements are confirmed.