Make Him an Offer He Can't Refuse

Last weekend, my husband discovered that one of our on demand channels had all three Godfather movies on demand for free. Over the last week, we have enjoyed a mini movie festival of the Godfather I, II, & III. Looking at the films again I have to tip my hat to the artistry of Coppola. Beyond the violence, the movies are a beautiful tapestry of characters perfectly weaved together on the screen.

In part one, we see various people having an audience with the iconic Vito Corleone (played by Marlon Brando). Instead of using the legal system, people went to the "Godfather" to get street justice. In a way, the Godfather was the neighborhood association president who wasn't afraid to make an offer that couldn't be refused.

The state of Florida has tried to prevent the use of self-help or street justice in disputes between neighborhood or homeowner associations and their homeowners. Florida Statute 720.311 allows for presuit mediation prior to filing a claim in court.

Your home is your castle. When your castle is disrupted by conflicts with your neighbors it makes life very unpleasant. Taking formal legal action is certainly a valid option. Mediation is also a valid option in that the warring factions may find resolution through utilization of a fair and impartial mediator. Mediation allows the parties to address the underlying issues directly. This can lead to faster resolution of conflict.

The Godfather is a great series of movies but no one wants to live out that type of conflict resolution in the same neighborhood where they raise their family. Mediation is a valid way to settle conflicts with your local neighborhood association. You never know, the other party may make you an offer that you can't refuse.