Meet Our Neutrals — Jeffrey M. Fleming

Trustworthiness and credibility are characteristics that describe the best professional neutrals. Jeff has both and has developed a devoted statewide following as mediator, arbitrator, and special magistrate. Jeff learned the importance of these traits first as a trial lawyer and then as Orange County and Ninth Circuit Judge. Jeff currently draws on his past work as a lawyer, service as a judge, and now as an experienced dispute resolution neutral.

Early on as a radio and television major at Florida Technological University (now UCF), Jeff planned on a career in broadcast journalism. But, like so many college students, he found himself drawn to law school. He switched majors to political science and would later attend Florida State University College of Law. Along the way, he encountered and was influenced by two Central Florida icons: Circuit Judge Rom Powell and Orlando Mayor Bill Frederick. Both exemplified qualities Jeff sought to emulate. Judge Powell was thoughtful and dignified. Mayor Frederick was a model of public service.

We are all a product of our experiences, and, as litigator and judge, Jeff strived to always be prepared and focused, yet also courteous. Something he describes as "formal but friendly." He continues with this approach which has proven to be most effective in his current dispute resolution practice.

When did you first think about becoming a mediator?

I knew I wanted to become a mediator when I decided it was time for me to leave the bench and return to private practice. After striving every day to see both sides of an issue, I wanted to use that experience in a different capacity.

What is your favorite part of being a mediator?

No doubt it's the personal connection. Mediators talk with people about their lives and what they really care about. I find that very meaningful.

What do you wish people did more often in mediation?

Be open and honest about both the strengths and weaknesses of their respective cases. Letting the other side know in a matter-of-fact way that you are prepared to take on their best arguments helps get cases resolved by promoting a thoughtful dialogue.

If you could tell your former self one thing after graduating from law school, what would it be?

I have a tendency to dwell on my work. I would tell myself more often: "Take your work seriously . . . but don't take yourself too seriously."

What is something about you not too many people are aware of?

I bought a motorcycle in 1980 when I was a student at UCF. I still remember the time it slipped out from under me on a rainy afternoon in the dorm parking lot. I was in a hurry to see my girlfriend. That girlfriend has now been my wife for almost 40 years. She is quick to point out that she started dating me, not because I rode a motorcycle, but because I drove a souped-up Camaro. I got rid of the Camaro but still have that same motorcycle 46 years later . . . and it still runs!!