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How Does Divorce Mediation Work in Texas?
As if the emotional toll of a divorce isn’t enough, the legal process can often make it even more difficult. Understandably, both parties seek the best possible outcome, but going to court and battling it out can be time-consuming, emotionally draining, and financially costly. Fortunately, there is an alternative to traditional litigation: divorce mediation.
For Texas couples going through a divorce, mediation is an option that can help you avoid a drawn-out legal battle in the courtroom. To help you better understand how this process works, we’ve asked Texas divorce attorney Jimmy Vaught to provide some insight into divorce mediation and its benefits.
How Does Divorce Mediation Work?
Mediation is a process in which both parties work with a neutral third party, called a mediator, to help them reach a mutually agreeable resolution. During mediation, the parties typically meet in separate rooms while the mediator goes back and forth to facilitate discussions. This allows for open communication and negotiation without the risk of confrontation. It’s important to note that the mediator does not make decisions for the parties; instead, they assist them in reaching their own decision.
Benefits of Mediation
One of the main benefits of mediation is that it allows the parties to maintain control over their own lives. In traditional litigation, a judge makes decisions for the parties based on limited information and arguments presented in court. This can often lead to outcomes that neither party is happy with. With mediation, however, both parties have a say in the outcome and are more likely to be satisfied with the final agreement.
Moreover, mediation is often less expensive than going to court. When you go through traditional litigation, you have to pay your attorney’s fees, court fees, and other costs associated with preparing for trial. On the other hand, mediation typically only requires one mediator, which is much less costly than having multiple lawyers and experts involved.
Additionally, mediation can be less time-consuming than going to court. In most cases, mediation can be completed daily, whereas traditional litigation can take months or even years. This saves time and allows both parties to move on with their lives sooner.
Can Mediation Resolve Child Custody Disputes?
Child custody is one of the most common issues in divorce cases, and it’s also one of the most emotional and difficult to resolve. However, mediation can be useful in reaching an agreement that works for both parties and, most importantly, for the children involved. Through open communication and the assistance of a mediator, couples can often come to a resolution that may not have been possible in court.
How Do You Handle Mediation?
As mentioned, each party will have its own separate room during mediation, and the mediator will go back and forth between them to facilitate discussions. In most cases, mediation should be completed in a day. However, it’s important to note that it can be mentally and emotionally draining for both parties, so it’s usually recommended to end at a reasonable time to avoid fatigue and potential oversights.
What Happens if the Parties Can’t Come to an Agreement?
In some cases, the parties may be unable to reach an agreement through mediation. If this happens, they may continue to negotiate or set a date for a final trial where a judge will decide for them. This is why it’s important to go into the mediation process with an open mind and a willingness to compromise to avoid court proceedings.
Final Thoughts
In most counties in Texas, mediation is required before parties can set a final trial or go to court. However, even if it’s not required, it’s highly recommended as it allows you to maintain control over your life and come to a resolution that works for both parties. Going through a divorce is already difficult enough, but couples can resolve more peacefully and amicably through mediation.
If you’re going through a divorce in Texas, consider mediation as an option. It has countless benefits, including cost and time savings, more control over the outcome, and a less stressful process overall. Ultimately, it’s a way for both parties to agree without needing a courtroom battle. To learn more, contact a family law attorney in your area today.