Divorce is not a pleasant thing to face; on the other hand, it does not have to be a traumatic event. Many divorces in Texas can be concluded quite amicably when divorcing parties seek the help of experienced family law attorneys.  One option that is available especially through a family law firm experienced with alternative divorce solutions is mediation.  This process can help clients who want to negotiate their own divorce terms and make the entire process easier as a result. Mediation is not for everyone; however, family law lawyers inform clients the ways this process can prove to be a friendlier way to work with their spouse through the mediation process for an outcome agreeable to both parties.

What Is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation is the process by which divorcing spouses, and their family law attorneys, negotiate the terms of a divorce with a neutral third party mediator. This person works to help negotiate the compromises for both spouses in a divorce. Mediators are not counselors and do not offer advice, although they may offer suggestions to handle certain circumstances, leaving a final decision up to the divorcing parties. Attorneys experienced in family law suggest that mediation is a great way for couples who are on good terms to civilly discuss the termination of their marriage and jointly make necessary decisions to obtain a legal divorce order.

How Does Mediation in Texas Work?

Mediation can take place in a mediation center or at a location separate from the offices of any representing family law firm. Both parties, and their family law lawyers, meet with a mediator either together or separately, to discuss divorce terms. The mediator spends time with each spouse and their attorney, listening to each separate account of the divorce circumstances and how each party wants it to be handled.  This provides good background information regarding the situation.

From that point, the mediator then negotiates back and forth between the two parties until final decisions can be made. The entire process one day, multiple days, or longer, depending on what details must be handled regarding the divorce to reach a settlement. Once both parties are in agreement regarding the divorce, an Agreement of Settlement can be created and signed. Lawyers who handle family law matters say the Agreement of Settlement is a binding document used to create the final divorce order.

Can Anyone Use Mediation?

Family law lawyers are aware that mediation is an option available to most couples in Texas, a means that allows the couple to reach a fair settlement regarding their divorce.  Is it something that will work for every couple?  That depends on their attitude towards each other and the entire divorce process. Mediated settlements are based on compromise, on a willingness to work together and talk openly and honestly with the mediator. Couples already clashing over divorce circumstances, whether about the division of marital property or child custody issues, are unlikely to compromise with each other during the mediation process; a settlement through the courts may be their only option. For those are committed to remaining civil throughout the entire negotiation process and display a willingness to compromise to reach an agreeable settlement can benefit from mediation to work out the final details.

Family law attorneys encourage divorcing couples to consider mediation to reach a settlement, as it offers an option that is less stressful, time-consume, and costly than anything other option. Any family law firm that deals with divorce can help clients explore the idea of mediation and if it will work for them. To find out more about mediation and divorce in Texas, couples should contact a local family law practice for more detailed information!

Foreman Family Law

409 E. 26th Street

Bryan TX 77803

979-300-8356

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