In Texas, mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party—called a mediator—helps individuals involved in a legal dispute, such as a divorce or child custody case, reach a mutually acceptable agreement. The mediator does not make decisions for the parties but instead facilitates open communication, clarifies issues, and assists in finding common ground. Texas family courts often encourage or even require mediation before going to trial because it saves time, reduces legal costs, and helps families maintain control over important decisions rather than leaving them to a judge.

Virtual mediation offers many of the same benefits as in-person sessions while adding extra layers of comfort and accessibility. It allows each participant to join from a private, familiar space, which can help reduce tension and emotional stress—especially important when conflicts are intense. Mediators can also use separate “breakout rooms” to give each party privacy for confidential discussions, just like in a physical mediation setting.