Mediation is one of the most frequently used methods of negotiating a property or custody agreement in Texas divorce cases. An attempt at mediation is strongly recommended in many Texas counties. Travis County, for example, requires mediation when the court believes that a hearing before a judge on a family law dispute will take three hours or more.

Mediation in Texas helps spouses come to term with alimony payments, child support, custody and visitation arrangements and division of marital property and debts.

As part of the mediation regime, the court may order both spouses to consult a marriage counselor. If his or her report indicates that there is a reasonable chance of reconciliation, the court may order additional counseling for up to 60 days. [Texas Codes Annotated; Family Code, Chapters 102.0085, 153.010, 6.505 and 6.602].

At the judge’s discretion, the court may order spouses to attend a parenting class. The classes range in length and you are given a Certificate of Completion to provide to the court. The goal of the classes is to educate the parents on best practices for co-parenting during and after divorce. The classes are often held at the courthouse or online.