What is Family Law Mediation?

What is family law mediation?

Mediation is a process where the parties to a divorce or family law matter meet with a “mediator”, who assists the parties in reducing conflict and settling disputes. Generally, the “mediator” is an experienced family law attorney or former judge with experience in family law cases and possible outcomes in litigation. Texas courts usually order the parties to attend mediation before proceeding to trial; failure to attend mediation usually results in less amount of time for the parties to present his or her case at trial. Mediation is a voluntary settlement process and usually only the lawyers and the client are allowed to be present during the mediation process. In most family law mediations, the parties are kept in separate rooms with the mediator going back and forth to exchange ideas and settlement offers. If the parties reach final agreements, all agreements are written down in the form of a Mediated Settlement Agreement usually filed with the court. Parties are entitled to judgment based on the face of the Mediated Settlement Agreement, which is then used to write and finalize the final divorce or family law case.

What are the Advantages of Mediation?

• You and those directly involved will make decisions, instead of a judge, leaving the parties with more control over the situation
• Mediation is less expensive than litigation
• Mediation is faster than taking an issue to court

It is important to note that a “mediator” does not represent the interests of any parties in the case, and an attorney can provide you with advice and negotiate on your behalf during the mediation process.  Additionally,  your attorney serves as an advocate to protect you from an unfavorable settlement since mediators serve as unbiased third parties and cannot provide legal advice.

We are Here to Help

Contact the Liu Law Firm for assistance with your family law case today at (469) 949-9227. Located at 333 E. Bethany Drive Bldg. H, Suite 110, Allen, TX 75002.

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