The Texas Dispute Resolution Policy is a set of guidelines and procedures established to facilitate the resolution of conflicts or disputes in the state of Texas. It is designed to provide an alternative to traditional litigation, promoting efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and preserving relationships between parties involved. The policy aims to address a wide range of disputes, including but not limited to business, commercial, contractual, real estate, consumer, employment, and family law matters. There are several types of dispute resolution methods covered under the Texas Dispute Resolution Policy, each catering to specific circumstances and preferences of involved parties. These include: 1. Mediation: Mediation is a non-adversarial process where a neutral third party, the mediator, assists the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. This method fosters open communication and encourages parties to find creative solutions together. It is often seen as less formal and less confrontational than a court trial. 2. Arbitration: Arbitration is a more formal process similar to a court trial, where parties present their case to one or more neutral arbitrators who make a binding decision. It offers a quicker resolution than traditional litigation and allows parties to select arbitrators with expertise in the subject of the dispute. 3. Collaborative Law: Collaborative law is an alternative approach that involves each party working with their respective attorneys to reach a resolution without going to court. It emphasizes cooperation and problem-solving, seeking win-win outcomes for both sides. 4. Dispute Review Boards: Dispute review boards are often utilized in construction projects, where a panel of unbiased professionals reviews disputes as they arise during the project. Their recommendations help parties avoid costly and time-consuming litigation. Texas encourages parties to attempt dispute resolution before going to court. The state's courts often require parties to engage in alternative dispute resolution processes, promoting the use of mediation or arbitration to efficiently resolve disputes. The Texas Dispute Resolution Policy ensures that parties in conflict have access to fair and effective methods that prioritize mutual agreement and streamline the legal process.