I'm not a heavy poster but it's normally in other areas. I hoped I wouldn't have to come to D/D but my wife seems to have made up her mind after 7 years of marriage, 1 year of separation and a wonderful daughter who is 4. <p>We're still very civil to each other and I don't think we'll get into arguments over child support, division of assets, custody etc. What are the options for getting a divorce (I'm in TX). Do we have to go the lawyer route? Can we get a single lawyer? What is mediation? Lots of questions, no answers since this is my first time through this.<p>Also, I hate to give up before the final nail is in the coffin so is there anyone out there who has been this far and then reconciled? Thanks for the info. - D

D8,<p>I am sorry that things are not working out how you wanted them to.<p>As for options in TX I am not sure, I know that my H wanted us to go to an Arbitrator to draw up our divorce agreement, which I agreed to.<p>That was the worst thing I could have ever done. I thought we were going to be civilized to each other, Little did I know that he picked an arbitrator that worked for FATHERS rights.<p>Not that I thought he shouldn't have rights, but in the end, he got the children, the house all the assets. And I was left with, You can stay here as long as you like, or till you find a place of your own.<p>I suggest if this is what is going to happen, and you have no choice in the end of your marriage, Get a Lawyer.<p>-Kat-<p>PS....just to let you know..just like the (cat) I ended up landing on my feet. Don't have what I use to have.....but all my kids moved in with me..and to me that is all that is important. [img]images/icons/smile.gif" border="0[/img]

Please see my reply to all those contemplating mediation ... it helped me .... a mediator is just that -- in the middle-- hearing both sides of the story. If you have a good one, like I did, you and your spouse should both get your needs met. Try it.... most mediators give at least a 1 hour initial meeting free. It is well worth it.