By Karly Wannos, Esq. | Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator & Arbitrator

Employment disputes are rarely just about legal claims or monetary damages. More often than not, they involve deep personal emotion, workplace history, reputational concerns, and a breakdown in trust. That’s why successful employment mediation requires more than just legal knowledge—it demands emotional intelligence.

The Unique Emotional Landscape of Employment Disputes

Employment cases are some of the most emotionally charged in civil litigation. They may involve:

• Claims of discrimination, retaliation, or harassment
• Allegations related to wrongful termination
• Contentious wage and hour disputes
• Violations of FMLA or ADA rights

In many of these cases, at least one party feels unheard, misunderstood, or deeply wronged. There may be long-standing tensions, trauma, or perceived injustice. This emotional backdrop can make it difficult for the parties—and sometimes their attorneys—to focus solely on facts and figures.

The Mediator’s Role: More Than a Messenger

A good mediator in employment law must do more than just shuttle numbers between rooms. They must:

• Navigate strong emotions like anger, grief, or fear
• Preserve the dignity of all parties throughout the session
• Maintain neutrality while encouraging difficult but productive conversations
• De-escalate conflict and reframe heated exchanges when needed

This requires emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and respond to both spoken and unspoken cues in the room.

Why It Matters to Lawyers and Clients Alike

Attorneys handling employment matters want a mediator who can:

• Handle trauma-informed conversations with care
• Diffuse volatility without appearing dismissive
• Keep the session focused and productive—even when tensions run high

Without these skills, even a legally strong case can unravel in mediation due to interpersonal breakdowns.

My Approach: Skilled in Emotionally Charged Situations

As both an employment litigator and Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator, I understand that employment cases are personal. Over the years, I’ve helped resolve disputes involving:

• Discrimination under Title VII
• FMLA and ADA accommodations
• Hostile work environment claims
• Retaliation and wrongful termination
• Wage and hour disputes with reputational consequences

Karly Wannos brings a calm, composed presence to emotionally complex mediations—ensuring all parties feel heard, while moving them toward practical and respectful resolutions. I adapt my tone, style, and techniques to match the dynamics of the room and the personalities involved.

Because in employment law, the path to resolution is rarely linear—and emotional intelligence is the compass that keeps it on track.

Schedule Your Mediation

If you’re seeking a mediator who understands both the legal complexity and the emotional dynamics of employment law, we welcome the opportunity to work with you.

 Contact Florida employment mediator, Karly Wannos to schedule your next employment mediation.

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