Providing Creative Solutions to Complex Family Law Litigation.

Family law mediation is a confidential process where a neutral mediator helps parties resolve divorce, custody, support, and property issues without a trial. At Schmude Mediations, PLLC, sessions are led by former Presiding Judge John Schmude, Board Certified in Family Law in Texas.

In court, a judge decides the outcome after a public, adversarial process. In mediation, the parties decide together with the help of a neutral mediator. It is private, typically faster, less costly, and lets families craft solutions a court could not order.

Usually, yes. A contested family law trial can require months of discovery, hearings, and attorney time. Mediation at Schmude Mediations starts at $700 per party for a four-hour half-day session, often resolving issues in a single day.

Having a family law attorney is strongly recommended so you understand your rights before signing an agreement. The mediator is neutral and cannot give either party legal advice, but many parties attend with counsel present in person or by Zoom.

Nearly any family law matter can be mediated, including divorce, child custody and conservatorship, parenting plans, child support, spousal support, property division, modifications, and enforcement disputes. Schmude Mediations also offers binding arbitration for these issues.

Schmude Mediations offers half-day (4 hours), three-quarter-day (6 hours), and full-day (8 hours) sessions. Additional time is billed at $175 per party per hour. Most family law cases are scheduled for a half or full day.