*Mediation is often quicker than formal legal proceedings. Often courts are backlogged and trials are frequently postponed.
*It’s much more cost effective than a trial.
*You are in charge of the outcome. If a judge rules, you have no say so once the decision is made.
*It is private. Things you discuss and agree on stay private (with some exceptions), while in court all your grievances become public for anyone to know.
*You can come up with more creative solutions, especially as it pertains to children’s possession orders and financial asset division.
Why chose Marcel Gamboa as a mediator?
As a counselor with over 22 years of experience, Marcel has a extensive knowledge of family conflict. With a counselor background, he has an unique ability to generate potential solutions and to prompt a healthy dialogue between parties. Marcel is a certified family/divorce mediator and he has successfully reached Mediated Settlement Agreements in many disputes. Marcel is a Credentialed Advanced Mediator by the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association. Furthermore, he is trained in Parent Coordination/Facilitation, something that is often encouraged or required by courts in high dispute child custody cases.
How is the mediation conducted?
Most mediations are conducted via zoom, while some are in person if requested by the parties. Typically we start with an opening statement from each party. At times, parties stay together while the mediator facilitates a dialogue and works towards compromises. Other times, it is in the parties’ best interest to separate into different rooms and discuss things privately. This can be done if mediation is conducted via zoom as well. If an agreement is made, the mediator will write up a Mediated Settlement Agreement. If attorneys are present, one of the attorneys will file the agreement with the court. If no attorneys are present, the parties will have to agree on an attorney that “papers” the case. Marcel Gamboa does not file the agreement with the court.
Can I call with questions?
Yes, call 281-299-8607 for further questions and a 15 minute complementary consultation.
What is your pricing and cancellation policy?
Cost is $150 per hour per party for divorce mediation. Minimum is 4 hours for fairly simply disputes, while most divorce cases will need a full day (8 hours). For Parent Coordination, the fee is $180 of parents come in for a joint session ($90 each if splitting the cost) or $165 for individual coparent sessions.
Payment must be received at the time of scheduling the appointment. If cancelled at least 7 days prior to the mediation, a full refund will be issued minus a $25 processing fee per party. If cancelled at least 24 hours before mediation but less than 7 days prior, a 50% refund will be issued. There is no refund once mediation begins.
Is it confidential?
Things discussed in mediation are confidential. A party can request a “caucus” at any time; that is, discussing certain matters privately they do not want the other party to know or for other reasons. If an agreement is reached, we will draft up a Mediated Settlement Agreement that an attorney will file with the court. Depending on the court and the county, the details of this agreement may or may not become public.
Can you give legal advice?
Mediators do not give legal advice, regardless of whether or not he/she is an attorney. You should seek legal counsel if you have questions on how to proceed with your case.
Where can I find more resources?
guides.sll.texas.gov/family-law
I’m ready to take the next step. How do I sign up?
Call or text Marcel Gamboa at 281-299-8607, E-mail me at Marcel@MediationinHouston.com