Mediation
The third process is for the parties to use a mediator to help facilitate settlement of their issues.
In mediation, neither party is represented by an attorney but an attorney/mediator helps the parties to resolve their differences. The mediator cannot represent either of the parties but may explain Texas law. The mediator must be neutral.
The mediator, if an attorney, may then prepare the documents necessary for finalizing the divorce.
This type of mediation should not be confused with mediation in the context of litigation or a collaborative divorce. In these 2 processes, a family law mediator may be brought in if the case does not settle. Not only is each spouse paying for their own attorney but generally pays one-half of the cost of the mediator. So three professionals are involved instead of just 2.
Mediation in this context normally lasts one day and mediators charge an hourly rate which is comparable to an attorney's hourly rate.