Craig Jackson
If you have a contested family law case in Tarrant County, there is a strong chance the court will order mediation before you ever see the inside of a courtroom. Under Texas law, judges have the authority to refer any family case to mediation, and in practice, most Tarrant County family courts require it before a contested divorce or custody case goes to a final trial. Your choice of mediator can shape the entire trajectory of your case.
Craig Jackson has been a family lawyer for nearly three decades and has been Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 2004. As the former Associate Judge for the 360th District Court in Tarrant County, he earned a reputation for fairness and efficiency.
Craig has presided over hundreds of contested hearings and numerous final trials, served as lead counsel in thousands of family court proceedings, and successfully mediated hundreds of cases. His experience on both sides of the bench gives him a unique ability to help parties evaluate risk, find common ground, and reach lasting agreements.
- Board Certified in Family Law since 2004
- Former Associate Judge, 360th District Court, Tarrant County
- Lead counsel in thousands of family court proceedings
- Recognized as a Texas "Super Lawyer" year after year
- Texas State Bar Family Law Practice Manual Committee
- Experienced appellate practitioner
J. Turner Thornton
Turner Thornton leads Varghese Summersett's Family Law Division and is a licensed mediator with extensive experience guiding families through contested disputes. A skilled negotiator and experienced litigator, Turner has successfully guided hundreds of individuals and families through divorce, child custody battles, and property division.
Turner's dual perspective as both a trial attorney and a licensed mediator makes him especially effective at the mediation table. He understands what it takes to win at trial and can help parties evaluate the risks and rewards of settlement versus litigation. When mediation serves a client's interests, Turner can help the parties reach a fair resolution. When trial becomes necessary, he is a formidable advocate in the courtroom.
- Partner and Head of Family Law Division
- Licensed Mediator
- Recognized by Best Lawyers in America for Family Law (2024)
- Texas A&M Law Alumni Legacy Award, Private Practice Achievement (2024)
- Rising Star, Super Lawyers (2023, 2024, 2025)
- Elected Board Member, Tarrant County Family Law Bar Association
Resolving Every Type of Family Dispute
Craig mediates the full range of family law matters. Whatever the issue, the goal is the same: a fair agreement that keeps your family out of the courtroom.
Divorce
Property division, debt allocation, retirement accounts, spousal maintenance, and all terms of the final decree.
Child Custody
Conservatorship, possession and access schedules, decision-making rights, and geographic restrictions.
Child Support
Guideline and above-guideline support, medical support, educational expenses, and extracurricular costs.
Modifications
Changes to existing custody, support, or visitation orders based on a material and substantial change in circumstances.
Enforcement
Resolving disputes when one party has failed to follow existing court orders on custody, support, or visitation.
Prenuptial & Postnuptial
Negotiating property and financial terms before or during marriage to protect both parties' interests.
Is Mediation Required in Texas Family Law Cases?
The short answer: if your case involves contested issues, you should expect the court to order mediation before trial.
Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Chapter 154 and Family Code § 6.602, a court may refer a family case to mediation even if one party objects. In practice, most Texas family courts require mediation before a contested divorce or suit affecting the parent-child relationship (SAPCR) goes to a final trial or a lengthy temporary-orders hearing.
Courts typically order mediation when there are unresolved disputes over custody, possession, property division, or support. If the parties already have a full agreement, mediation is generally not required because there is nothing material to mediate.
How It Works in Tarrant County
Tarrant County family and district courts follow this statewide pattern closely. Mediation is commonly required before a contested case goes to final trial. Here is what to expect:
Scheduling Orders
A Tarrant County family district judge will typically include a mediation requirement in the scheduling order or at a temporary-orders setting, with a deadline to complete mediation before the trial date.
Enforcement
If mediation has not been completed by the trial date, the court can refuse to proceed and may reset the case. Tarrant County judges have broad discretion to enforce mediation orders through scheduling control and sanctions.
Choosing a Mediator
Parties may choose their own mediator. If they cannot agree, the court can appoint one. The Supreme Court of Texas has approved local rules for Tarrant County Family Courts that allow the court to select a mediator with substantial family law mediation experience.
Exceptions
Courts will not order or will be cautious about ordering joint, in-person mediation in cases involving family violence. Protections and alternative arrangements are required. Uncontested cases are not forced into mediation, and Tarrant County's Dispute Resolution Program can assist with fee issues for qualifying parties.
A Mediator Who Knows Your Courtroom
Whether you live in Fort Worth, Southlake, or anywhere in the surrounding area, your family law case will be filed and heard in Tarrant County. The judge assigned to your case, the procedures governing your hearing, and the local rules shaping your timeline all come from Tarrant County courts.
Craig Jackson doesn't just understand those courts. He sat on the bench in one. As the former Associate Judge of the 360th District Court, Craig has firsthand knowledge of how Tarrant County judges evaluate evidence, weigh custody factors, and divide property. He understands the local processes, procedures, and regional expectations that influence outcomes.
That perspective changes the dynamic at the mediation table. Craig can help both parties realistically assess what a Tarrant County judge would likely do with their case, which creates stronger incentives to reach a fair agreement rather than gamble on a trial.
Tarrant County Local Rules
The Supreme Court of Texas has approved local rules for the Family Courts of Tarrant County that expressly contemplate mediation and allow the court to select a mediator with substantial family law experience. Craig meets and exceeds those expectations.
Two Premier Offices in Tarrant County
Varghese Summersett operates two fully equipped, modern offices in Tarrant County. Both are designed to provide a professional, comfortable environment for mediation sessions. Regardless of which office you choose, your case will be handled in the Tarrant County courts that Craig knows inside and out.
Ready to Resolve Your Case?
Call (817) 203-2220How Mediation Works
We start by helping you understand what to expect from court-ordered mediation, including the benefits and possible outcomes. Craig then reviews all materials, studies the legal issues, speaks with attorneys when helpful, and drafts a preliminary settlement agreement so nothing is overlooked and no time is wasted.
Craig guides the session with fairness, empathy, and a deep command of family law. He helps parties evaluate risk, frame reasonable offers, and move toward resolution through structured, productive dialogue.
Once an agreement is reached, Craig facilitates a mediated settlement agreement that is clear, thorough, and accurate. It's drafted with the kind of precision that prevents post-mediation disputes.
Resolve Your Dispute Without the Courtroom
Family law cases are personal, emotional, and high-stakes. Mediation gives parties the power to shape their own outcome rather than leaving the decision to a judge or jury.
Control Over the Outcome
In mediation, the parties decide the terms. You craft an agreement that reflects your family's specific needs, priorities, and circumstances.
Faster Resolution
Litigation can drag on for months or years. A skilled mediator can help resolve even complex disputes in a single session, allowing everyone to move forward.
Lower Cost, Less Conflict
Trial preparation is expensive and adversarial. Mediation reduces both the financial burden and the emotional toll on families, often producing a better, more tailored result at a fraction of the cost.
Voluntary and Confidential
Mediation is a voluntary process. Unlike trials, which become part of the public record, mediation discussions remain confidential. Sensitive financial and personal matters stay between the parties.
Available at Any Stage
Mediation can happen before or after filing for divorce. It covers the full range of contested issues, including property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance.
Durable and Binding
People are more likely to honor agreements they helped create. Once a mediated settlement agreement is signed, it is binding and enforceable, with very limited exceptions for fraud or duress.
A good mediator doesn't just split the difference. A good mediator helps both sides see the case clearly and find a resolution they can live with.
Experience. Preparation. Communication.
Experience
With nearly three decades in family law as a litigator, appellate attorney, and sitting judge, Craig understands the realistic range of outcomes for your case. He helps parties weigh risk versus reward and make informed decisions.
Preparation
Craig studies every case before mediation begins. He reviews the lawyers' materials, researches the legal issues, and drafts a preliminary settlement agreement in advance. By ensuring we are prepared for each session, we build momentum in negotiations and make the most of every opportunity to protect your interests.
Communication
We pride ourselves on clear and consistent communication at every stage. You will never be left wondering about the status of your mediation or your rights during sessions. We begin by providing strategic guidance about what to expect from court-ordered mediation and help you understand the benefits and possible outcomes. We also handle all scheduling, including weekends when trial dates are looming, and coordinate dates with opposing counsel on your behalf.
Legal Standards That Shape Your Settlement
Understanding what a judge would consider at trial is key to evaluating settlement options in mediation.
No-Fault Divorce
Texas is a no-fault state. Under Family Code § 6.001, either spouse can file on the ground of insupportability. No proof of fault is required.
If fault-based grounds are alleged (adultery, cruelty, abandonment), the standard of proof is a preponderance of the evidence.
Best Interest of the Child
Under Family Code § 153.002, the child's best interest is the primary consideration. There is a rebuttable presumption under § 153.131 that joint managing conservatorship serves the child's best interest.
Material & Substantial Change
To modify an existing order, the moving party must show a material and substantial change in circumstances since the prior order. The standard is a preponderance of the evidence, and the child's best interest remains the guiding principle.
Clear & Convincing Evidence
If termination of parental rights is at issue, the standard rises to clear and convincing evidence, the highest burden in civil law. This reflects the fundamental nature of the parent-child relationship.
Let Us Guide You Through This
Craig Jackson is ready to help you find resolution.
Schedule Your MediationFrequently Asked Questions
Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code Chapter 154 and Family Code § 6.602, a court may refer a family case to mediation even if one party objects. In practice, most Texas family courts, including those in Tarrant County, require mediation before a contested divorce or custody case goes to trial. Courts typically order mediation only when there are unresolved disputes over custody, possession, property division, or support. If the parties already have a full agreement, mediation is generally not required.
Yes. Parties may select their own mediator. If they cannot agree, the court can appoint one who meets Tarrant County's experience expectations for family cases. The Supreme Court of Texas has approved local rules for Tarrant County Family Courts that allow the court to select a mediator with substantial family law mediation experience.
Courts will not order, or will be very cautious about ordering, joint in-person mediation in cases involving family violence. If mediation is used, protections and alternative arrangements are required. This may include separate rooms, staggered arrival times, or remote participation. Your attorney can discuss what safeguards apply to your situation.
Generally, no. Under Texas Family Code § 153.0071, a properly executed MSA is binding and not subject to revocation. There are very limited exceptions, which is why it's critical to have an experienced mediator who drafts a clear and thorough agreement.
Most family law mediations last between four and eight hours, though complex cases may take longer. Craig's thorough preparation helps sessions run efficiently, and many cases settle in a single session.
While mediation can proceed without attorneys, it is strongly recommended that each party have legal representation. An attorney can advise you on your rights, evaluate proposed terms, and ensure the final agreement protects your interests. The mediator is neutral and cannot give legal advice to either side.
Mediation is significantly less expensive than trial. A contested trial can cost tens of thousands of dollars when you factor in attorney fees, expert witnesses, discovery, and courtroom time. Mediation typically costs a fraction of that amount and resolves the case in a single day.
Ready to Schedule a Mediation?
Contact us to book a session with Craig Jackson.
Call (817) 203-2220