Judge orders Florida State and the Atlantic Coast Conference to mediation in latest legal round

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A Tallahassee judge has ordered Florida State and the Atlantic Coast Conference to enter mediation in hopes of settling a high-profile lawsuit that could dramatically impact the future of the league.

Judge John C. Cooper technically approved the ACC’s motion to dismiss Monday but gave FSU seven days to amend its complaint because the university needs more specificity regarding key facts in a case he said “is worth up to half a billion dollars.” The conference would have 20 days to respond afterward, and another hearing would be set.

“The case is not over,” Cooper said. “The case will continue.”

Cooper ordered the sides to begin mediation within 120 days. But a mediator cannot force an agreement, so the case could end up back in court.

“I send every case to mediation except mortgage foreclosures,” Cooper said. “This is not being done any differently.”