Benefits of Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods in Texas
The primary benefit of mediation is it can be a more efficient, cost-effective resolution when compared to a divorce trial. Mediation can also offers more privacy than litigation, as it occurs behind closed doors away from the public eye. If you and your spouse are struggling to cooperate and reach an agreement on your own, mediation may be the best option to help you avoid the time and expense of going to court.
For example, mediation can help spouses divide marital assets such that both parties keep some of their most important properties intact, and it can help parents create a custody and child support arrangement that helps them be better co-parents for their children.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in which a neutral third party, called a mediator, helps parties in a dispute reach a mutually acceptable resolution. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, who makes a decision for the parties, a mediator does not impose a solution but instead facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties.
The mediation process typically involves the following steps:
- Opening Statements: Each party may have the opportunity to make an opening statement, outlining their perspective on the issues in dispute.
- Joint Discussion: The mediator may facilitate a joint discussion in which both parties have the opportunity to present their views and concerns directly to each other.
- Private Caucuses: The mediator may conduct private caucuses with each party separately to discuss their interests, concerns, and potential solutions confidentially.
- Negotiation: The parties, with the guidance of the mediator, engage in negotiation to explore possible solutions and reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Agreement: If the parties reach an agreement, the terms are usually documented in a written agreement that is signed by both parties.
Mediation is often used in civil disputes, including those related to personal injury, business disputes, family law matters, and more. It can be a cost-effective and efficient way to resolve conflicts outside of the formal court process, and it allows parties to have more control over the outcome of their dispute. However, mediation is voluntary, and all parties must agree to participate in the process.
Five-Star Client Testimonials
Read About Our Service From Our Clients' Own Words
-
"While divorce is certainly not an easy process for anyone, having a compassionate lawyer helps smooth the process along immensely. Brian was certainly that person for me."
I had another lawyer handling my divorce case prior to Brian, and she was an absolute MESS. It was very difficult to ...
Former Client -
"If I could give them 10 stars I would, HANDS DOWN!! He came in, took over my case from a previous lawyer, did EXACTLY what he said he would do & got my case closed!!"
If I could give this young man 10 stars I would HANDS DOWN!! He came in, took over my case from a previous lawyer, did ...
Faithful A. -
"Brian has gone ABOVE and BEYOND in making sure my kids have their father in their lives. These guys are parents as well and they stand for what’s right."
This legal team in my opinion, is elite. I can’t say enough good about them. Brian has gone ABOVE and BEYOND in making sure ...
Riko S. -
"From the first meeting with Brian, he exuded confidence in his knowledge of legal matters. Always very honest, straightforward forward, and clear with his advice and guidance."
From the first meeting with Brian, he exuded confidence in his knowledge of legal matters. Always very honest, ...
Jared C. -
"Brian Bagley is the best family law attorney I have ever worked with. He explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand."
Brian Bagley is the best family law attorney I have ever worked with. From our first online meeting, he explained everything ...
Ken H. -
"Although I didn't get the exact result I was hoping for, I got the results that I needed! Brian and his team were more than helpful to me."
Although I didn't get the exact result I was hoping for, I got the results that I needed! Brian and his team were more than ...
Lyndell B. -
"They were professional, responsive and sensitive to my circumstances. They made things easy for me and got my through a difficult time expeditiously!"
I had a great experience with Brian and his staff, especially Kristen. They were professional, responsive and sensitive to my ...
Suzanne C. -
"Very professional, very attentive, and really cared about my well being... this is a top-notch firm."
Brian Bagley and Kristin Tinker were outstanding to work with from day one! Very professional, very attentive, and really ...
Former Client