Resolving Local Government Disputes: Mediation Services with Board Certified Attorney James Whitehouse
At St. Johns Law Group, we are proud to offer the experience and insight of James Whitehouse, a Florida Bar Board Certified Local Government Law Attorney and Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator. With decades of experience advising cities, counties, and private clients in matters involving land use, zoning, public contracts, and administrative disputes, James provides a unique and valuable resource for parties seeking neutral and informed dispute resolution.
Why Choose Mediation in Local Government Disputes?
Local government disputes often involve a combination of legal complexity, regulatory procedures, and public interest. Whether it’s a PUD rezoning denial, a development dispute, or a disagreement involving a public agency, mediation allows parties to reach efficient and collaborative solutions—without costly litigation.
Attorney James Whitehouse brings a deep understanding of Florida public law and a calm, practical approach to resolving:
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Land use and zoning appeals
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Development order and permitting challenges
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Disputes between government entities and developers
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Contract disagreements with local agencies
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Sunshine Law and public records conflicts
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Infrastructure and utility service disputes
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Interlocal agreements and annexation matters
- Proportionate fair share and impact fee credit disputes
What Sets James Whitehouse Apart?
James Whitehouse is Board Certified in Local Government Law by The Florida Bar, a distinction held by a small percentage of attorneys statewide. This certification reflects:
✅ Advanced legal knowledge of municipal, county, and administrative law
✅ Demonstrated professionalism and ethics in public service and private practice
✅ A career dedicated to advising and resolving government law matters
In addition, James is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Circuit Civil Mediator, enabling him to conduct legally recognized mediations in both court-ordered and voluntary contexts. His mediation practice includes guiding municipalities, developers, landowners, and private citizens toward durable, forward-thinking outcomes.
Mediation Services Offered
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Local Government Disputes – between agencies and private parties
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Land Use and Zoning Conflicts – including PUDs, variances, development conditions
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Municipal and Intergovernmental Disagreements – boundary, service, and charter issues
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Real Property and Public Contract Disputes
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Public Records and Sunshine Law Mediation
Sessions are conducted in-person at our dedicated mediation center in St. Augustine, or virtually by request. Our office offers comfortable, neutral space for negotiations, caucusing, and full documentation of mediated agreements.
A Trusted Leader in Northeast Florida
James Whitehouse is not only a respected mediator but also a long-serving attorney with deep ties to St. Augustine and Northeast Florida. He has served as legal counsel to local governments and understands the processes, personalities, and pressures that influence public decision-making.
His mediation clients benefit from:
✔ Legal knowledge rooted in decades of Florida local government law
✔ A neutral yet informed perspective that fosters trust and productive dialogue
✔ Efficiency and confidentiality throughout the process
Serving Government and Private Parties Across the Region
Our mediation services extend throughout Florida, including:
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St. Augustine & St. Johns County
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Palatka & Putnam County
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Palm Coast & Flagler County
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Daytona & Volusia County
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Green Cove Springs & Clay County
- Palm Coast & Flagler County
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Jacksonville & Duval County
- Fernandina & Nassau County
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Florida cities, towns, and public agencies
Whether you represent a city department, planning board, developer, HOA, or landowner, James Whitehouse can help you find resolution outside the courtroom.
Schedule a Mediation with James Whitehouse
To request mediation or consultation with Board Certified Local Government Law Mediator James Whitehouse, contact our office:
📞 (904) 495‑0400
✉️ jameswhitehouse@sjlawgroup.com
📍 104 Sea Grove Main Street, St. Augustine, FL 32080
🌐 www.sjlawgroup.com