Drive-By Mediation: Just a Checkbox or a Genuine Resolution Tool?
Introduction When we talk about “drive-by” mediation, let’s be clear—we’re not talking about anything involving a moving vehicle or a crime scene. Instead, we’re referring to a streamlined, often misunderstood process of family law mediation that can be as quick as it sounds. But just because it’s fast, does that mean it’s effective? Can a […]
Mastering Mediation: Tips from a Former Family Law Judge
Greetings, family law warriors! As a former family law judge and now full-time mediator, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing a wide range of mediation approaches – some that hit the mark beautifully and others that, while well-intentioned, could use a bit of fine-tuning. Through these experiences, I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade […]
Keys to a Successful Mediation
During my time as mediator, I’ve learned that a successful mediation is not unlike a successful trial. So, that begs the question: What is essential before you can have a successful trial? Preparation!!! You would NEVER go into a contested trial if you were unprepared. And you should never go into a mediation unprepared. You […]
Can Mediation be Ordered During an Appeal?
Can parties be ordered to mediate during an appeal? Absolutely! In Texas, appellate courts have broad authority to order parties to engage in mediation even during an ongoing appeal. In this blog post, we’ll explore the authority granted to Texas appellate courts to order mediation during an appeal, the procedures and rules involved, and the […]
Save the Date! Open House & Grand Opening!
Exciting news! Save the Date! We’re thrilled to announce an Open House to celebrate the Grand Opening of our family law mediation practice, Armatys Millard, PLLC. We’d love for you to join us to celebrate this milestone. Come check out our new offices and join your colleagues for some fun outside of court. Bring your […]
NEW RULE: TRCP 21d – What You Need to Know About Electronic Court Appearances
Summary The Texas Supreme Court issued a new administrative order on January 27, 2023, finalizing rule changes regarding notice and appearances at court proceedings. Effective February 1, 2023, the order completes implementation of TRCP 21d, a new rule entitled “Appearances at Court Proceedings.” The order also amends TRCP 21(b) regarding service of notice, changing terminology […]
Which Is Better: In-Person or Zoom Mediation?
In family law cases, mediation can save significant time, money, and emotional stress for families. Mediation can be conducted in person or via Zoom, and each method has advantages and disadvantages. As a family law mediation firm serving Fort Bend County and Harris County, Texas, we are skilled at utilizing both options and understand the […]
Should You Designate a “Tiebreaker” to Resolve Disputes Over Parental Rights and Duties?
It has become increasingly common practice for family law practitioners (and mediators) to designate a tiebreaker to resolve disputes over parental rights. When parents can’t agree on medical, psychological, or educational decisions regarding a child, a pediatrician, therapist, or school counselor is often vested with the authority to make the final decision. In other words, […]
Scheduling Mediation Just Got Easy!
Most courts require mediation at least once, sometimes twice, during the life of a typical family law case. Try to get two busy lawyers’ and a mediator’s calendars to align, and you could end up in the dreaded twenty-email thread from hell. The frustrating back and forth just to get a date on the books […]
Former Family Law Judges Open Mediation & Arbitration Firm
On January 1, 2023, Armatys Millard, PLLC, will open the doors of a new law firm in Richmond, Texas, specializing in Mediation and Arbitration of family law disputes. The firm consists of Walter Armatys and John Millard, two seasoned family law attorneys who served as State District Family Court Judges in Fort Bend County, Texas, […]