Not all divorces and family disputes go through contested litigation in a courtroom. It is often easier for both parties to go through something called “mediation” to avoid the emotional and financial stress of going to trial.
During mediation, both parties meet with a neutral third party – a family law mediator – who helps facilitate communication between the two sides. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties; rather, he or she helps them come to a mutual agreement.
The spouses meet in separate rooms with the mediator and try to settle their differences around issues like property division and child custody. After both parties agree, the parties sign a “Mediated Settlement Agreement” that resolves all issues between the parties.
In Texas, some judges order couples to see a mediator before going to trial in court.