Divorce Mediation Attorney in Dallas, Texas 

Divorce can be stressful for anyone. It can be even more challenging when children or high-asset and high-net-worth individuals are involved. However, with help from an experienced and responsive Dallas divorce attorney, the process can be made more manageable. One legal option that may ease stress between couples and offer a productive solution to divorce is mediation. 

At Balekian Hayes, PLLC, our divorce and mediation lawyers can help you navigate the ups and downs of the divorce process and offer customized solutions to help you resolve your legal issues as favorably as possible. Mediation may be a viable solution that allows you and your spouse to settle your issues quickly and amicably so you can move forward and create a fresh start. 

If you have questions about what divorce mediation is or why mediation may be a good idea in divorce, our team can help you. Contact our office today and schedule a confidential consultation to learn more about mediation and your legal rights as you prepare to forge ahead with your new life. 

What Is Mediation of Divorce?

If you plan to divorce a spouse, you must understand all your legal rights and options. Unfortunately, many people are under the impression that divorce means going through the Texas family court system. However, couples have other viable options for dissolving their marriage and creating new lives for themselves. One of those options is mediation. 

Mediation is a structured but less formal process in which a neutral third party helps facilitate communication between a couple and guide them to a mutually acceptable divorce resolution or compromise. Couples who are close to reaching a compromise but need a little extra help resolving their issues may benefit from exploring mediation to help them achieve an agreeable settlement arrangement. 

Through mediation, a neutral third party guides a couple’s discussions and makes suggestions for resolving issues surrounding asset and debt division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and visitation. 

Understanding the Benefits and Drawbacks of Texas Divorce Mediation 

Resolving a divorce through mediation offers specific strategic benefits but has a few drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of mediation versus traditional divorce can help couples make better decisions regarding how to reach an agreement.

Some of the benefits of exploring mediation in Texas include:

• Cost- savings – While retaining legal representation even through mediation is still in your best interest, this option is significantly more cost-effective than a traditional divorce. Litigation tends to be expensive, while mediation is less costly, helping couples avoid court fees and other costs. 

• Privacy – Couples with high net worth or extensive assets may prefer mediation because it affords them confidentiality and privacy. Divorce cases and court proceedings all go into the public record, and it can feel invasive to air your “dirty laundry” in court and the court of public opinion. Mediation sessions are private and confidential. 
• Less stressful for families – Mediation is less formal and can be a less stressful avenue for resolving differences. Heading to court can be overwhelming and cause emotional distress. Mediation can help parties resolve their legal issues in a less confrontational setting and help preserve a more amicable relationship. 
• Speedy resolution – Mediation may also be an excellent option if you are ready to move on with life and put your past behind you. It tends to be a quicker way to resolve your issues and settle your divorce. There is no need to wait for the Texas family court system to schedule a court date or proceed with a lengthy trial. 
• Puts control in your hands – Mediation also puts control back into your hands, meaning the outcome of mediation depends on you and your spouse working together to find a mutually beneficial outcome. You take back the power to control the outcome of your situation from the court system and forge a path that works for you and your family. You are not at the mercy of a judge or jury. 

While mediation has significant benefits in Texas, there are also some drawbacks. Mediation is often not a good option for couples who are on the extreme opposite ends of the spectrum and cannot agree on the basics of separation. It is also not an ideal solution for couples in a high-conflict divorce situation. 

Do You Need an Attorney for Mediation in Texas? 

Technically, no, you do not need an attorney for mediation. However, it is always best to retain experienced legal representation to help you through the process, protect your legal rights, and promptly ensure all paperwork is accurate and filed. 

A mediator is a neutral third party that can help foster communication and get you and your spouse to work together to reach an amicable agreement. A mediator cannot offer legal advice or advocate for you or your spouse. When you work with a skilled family law attorney, you always have someone in your corner willing to advocate for you, giving you the advice and insight you need to make the most out of your mediation session. 

Working with an attorney from the start is also beneficial if mediation fails and you must move forward with a traditional divorce. You won’t have to start from square one to prepare for litigation. Sometimes, a judge may even order couples to engage in mediation before the judge oversees a hearing. A knowledgeable divorce attorney knows the Texas family court system and can prepare you for all potential divorce possibilities.

A Dallas, Texas, Mediation Attorney Can Help  

A divorce mediation attorney with Balekian Hayes, PLLC, can help you make the most out of your mediation sessions. Our experienced lawyers understand the challenges you may face as you attempt to reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. We’ll learn about your goals and concerns and help you through the mediation process so you can start your new life. 

Contact our Dallas office today and arrange a confidential legal consultation. We can discuss mediation and whether it may be a viable option for your unique situation.