FAQs — Call Me The Mediator | Texas Mediation Services

Question 1

What is mediation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral third party — the mediator — helps disputing parties communicate and reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator does not decide the outcome. The parties remain in control of the resolution.

Question 2

How is mediation different from going to court?

Accepted Answer

In court, a judge decides the outcome — often after months or years of proceedings, significant legal fees, and public records. In mediation, you and the other party work together to craft a solution that works for both sides. It's faster, more affordable, private, and far less adversarial.

Question 3

What types of disputes can be mediated?

Accepted Answer

Mediation works for a wide range of disputes including family and divorce matters, business and commercial conflicts, workplace disagreements, property and landlord-tenant issues, community and neighbor disputes, and debt or financial conflicts. If two or more parties have a disagreement, mediation is likely an option.

Question 4

Is mediation right for my situation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is a good fit when both parties are willing to communicate and reach a resolution. It may not be appropriate in cases involving active domestic violence, severe power imbalances, or criminal matters. Book a free consultation and we'll help you assess whether mediation is the right path forward.

Question 5

How does the mediation process work?

Accepted Answer

We start with a free consultation to understand your situation. If mediation is a fit, both parties are briefed on the process and ground rules. Sessions are then held — in person or virtually — where the mediator facilitates structured dialogue. Once agreement is reached, the terms are documented in a written Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA).

Question 6

How long does a mediation session take?

Accepted Answer

A single session typically lasts 2–4 hours. Most disputes are resolved in 1–3 sessions, though complex cases may require more. Even in multi-session cases, mediation is significantly faster than Texas court proceedings, which can take months or years.

Question 7

Do both parties have to agree to mediate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mediation is voluntary — both parties must agree to participate. That said, Texas courts frequently order mediation before trial under the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code (Chapter 154). Once both parties engage, the process is structured to ensure each side is heard equally.

Question 8

Can I bring my attorney to mediation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You may bring your Texas-licensed attorney to any mediation session. Many parties find it helpful to have legal counsel present, especially for complex business or family matters. The mediator will ensure the process remains balanced regardless of legal representation.

Question 9

What happens if we don't reach an agreement?

Accepted Answer

Mediation is non-binding until both parties sign the final agreement. If no agreement is reached, you retain all your legal rights and can still pursue other options, including litigation. Nothing said during mediation can be used against you in court — confidentiality is protected under Texas law.

Question 10

How much does mediation cost?

Accepted Answer

A standard 2-hour session is $350, typically shared equally between parties ($175 each). A 3-session Full Resolution Package — which includes the Mediated Settlement Agreement — is $900. The initial consultation is always free. Compare this to Texas litigation costs, which routinely run into the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

Question 11

Who pays for mediation?

Accepted Answer

Mediation fees are typically split equally between the parties unless otherwise agreed. In some cases — particularly court-ordered mediation — the court may specify how costs are divided. We're happy to discuss fee arrangements during your free consultation.

Question 12

Is mediation really cheaper than going to court in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Yes — significantly. Texas litigation costs can range from $5,000 to $50,000+ depending on complexity, attorney fees, court filing costs, and the length of proceedings. Mediation resolves most disputes for a fraction of that, often in a matter of days or weeks rather than months or years.

Question 13

Is a mediation agreement legally binding in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once both parties sign a Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA), it is binding and enforceable under the Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code (Chapter 154). In family law cases, an MSA signed under the Texas Family Code is irrevocable and must be entered as a court order.

Question 14

Is mediation confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mediation proceedings are strictly confidential under Texas law (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §154.073). Nothing disclosed during mediation can be used as evidence in court. This confidentiality encourages open, honest dialogue and protects all parties.

Question 15

Can a mediation agreement be enforced in Texas court?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A signed MSA can be submitted to a Texas court and entered as a judgment, giving it the full force of a court order. This means either party can seek court enforcement if the other fails to comply with the agreed terms.

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