The Harris County Order of Referral for Mediation is a legal process established by the Harris County courts in Texas to promote alternative dispute resolution in civil cases. It aims to provide parties involved in lawsuits an opportunity to settle their differences outside the courtroom through mediation. Mediation is a non-adversarial approach to resolving conflicts. It involves a neutral third party, called a mediator, who facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties to help them reach a mutually agreeable solution. Mediation can be an effective method for resolving disputes as it allows the parties to have more control over the outcome and often leads to faster and more cost-effective resolutions compared to traditional litigation. The Harris County Order of Referral for Mediation can apply to various types of civil cases, including but not limited to personal injury, contract disputes, landlord-tenant disputes, family law matters, and business disputes. Different types of Harris Texas Orders of Referral for Mediation may include: 1. General Order of Referral for Mediation: This order applies to civil cases in which the court orders parties to participate in mediation before proceeding to trial or further litigation. It emphasizes the court's preference for alternative dispute resolution and encourages parties to make good faith efforts to settle their disputes through mediation. 2. Family Law Order of Referral for Mediation: Family law cases involve disputes such as divorce, child custody, and visitation rights. This type of referral order specifically applies to family law matters, emphasizing the importance of mediation in resolving family-related conflicts in a less adversarial manner. 3. Small Claims Order of Referral for Mediation: Small claims cases involve disputes where the amount in controversy is below a certain threshold, usually a few thousand dollars. This type of referral order directs parties involved in small claims cases to attend mediation before proceeding to a trial or hearing, encouraging efficient dispute resolution. 4. Probate Order of Referral for Mediation: Probate cases involve the administration of estates, wills, guardianship, and other related matters. This type of referral order encourages parties to participate in mediation as a means to resolve disagreements over estate distribution or other probate issues amicably. Parties receiving a Harris County Order of Referral for Mediation are typically required to engage in good faith negotiations during the mediation process. They may choose their preferred mediator or request the court appoint a mediator. The mediator, as a neutral facilitator, assists the parties in understanding each other's perspectives and guides them toward finding mutually acceptable solutions. Overall, the Harris County Order of Referral for Mediation serves as a vital tool in the Texas court system, promoting the use of mediation to facilitate timely, cost-effective, and mutually satisfactory resolutions in civil disputes.