Why Choose Mediation?
More and more people are choosing mediation as a means to resolve issues when going through a divorce or a custody battle. Mediation can be a very successful and efficient tool to bring a lawsuit to a close. In Texas, courts often order parties to attend mediation prior to having a final trial.
Rules of Mediation
Any offers that are communicated during mediation are inadmissible at any future hearings. Any agreements that are entered into during mediation are reduced to writing and conformed into a document called a “Mediated Settlement Agreement.” This document becomes a contractually binding agreement that cannot be changed absent a showing of fraud, coercion, or duress in the procurement of the Mediated Settlement Agreement.
What to Bring to Mediation
In a divorce proceeding, bring your most recent financial statements, retirement account statements, and debt documentation. House appraisal documents and blue book values on automobiles and other vehicles will also be helpful to you at mediation.
If children are involved, bring personal calendars with records of the children’s activities as well as when you had possession of the children if you are in a custody battle.
