How the Mediation Process in Texas Works

McKinney Divorce Mediators Serving Collin County, TX

When you contact Divorce Mediation Centers of America, you will schedule a free initial meeting with Sharon Easley. Be sure to schedule the meeting at a time when both you and your spouse or your child's other parent can attend. You will both be participating in every step of the process.

Your First Meeting

We offer a calm, welcoming environment where we hope you will feel relaxed and open to the mediation process. It is important to remember that a mediator is a neutral third party who does not take sides or advocate for one person over the other. As your mediator, Sharon's job is to advocate for a settlement that satisfies both of your goals.

During your first meeting, you will have all of your mediation questions answered. You will learn about the rules of mediation, issues of confidentiality and your rights. Sharon will also set expectations regarding communication during the process. You are free to meet with an attorney of your choice at any point in the process.

If you decide that mediation is the best option for you, we will schedule a mediation session at the end of your first meeting. There is a $250 deposit at this point that will be put toward your mediation fee.

You will receive a packet of documents to complete before your mediation session. If you are getting divorced, the packet will include checklists and worksheets that will help you inventory your assets and liabilities, as well as budgets for each party. For mediation of child custody issues, you will provide information regarding your children. The packet will also include a form petition that will be filed before the mediation session, which will make your agreement irrevocable.

Your Mediation Session

During your mediation session, we will work through all aspects of your divorce and/or custody arrangement. If there is anything you do not agree on, we will work to come to an agreement through effective communication. We have extensive experience helping people resolve disputes over things like property division and time with their kids.

Often, we are able to help clients arrive at a settlement in one mediation session. Depending on the complexity of the divorce or custody arrangement, sometimes additional sessions are needed. Ideally, you will walk out the same day with a legal mediation settlement agreement in your hands.

Filing Your Settlement

Due to our extensive legal background, we are able to provide you with instructions on how to file your divorce online. We essentially offer a turnkey process in which you do not have to work with lawyers, and you never enter a courtroom. If you do not wish to file online, we provide detailed instructions for filing in court.

Schedule a Free Consultation

For more information, or to schedule your free initial consultation, contact Divorce Mediation Centers of America in McKinney. Call 469-406-4320 for an appointment. We help families throughout North Texas, including in the communities of Plano, Frisco, Collin County, Denton County, Dallas County, and the surrounding areas.