trials in Texas Family Court

It is a common misconception all court cases go to trial. Today, in family law cases, jury trials are often discussed but rarely experienced. Annually, less than 1% of parent-child cases tried to a final judgment in Texas family courts involve a jury trial. While many cases are set for jury trial, very few are actually tried all the way to a jury verdict.

Requesting a jury trial can be advantageous strategically for you and your attorney. Oftentimes, settlement negotiations are at a standstill over small details, or a party is being irrational. A jury trial request may be the splash of cold water they need to push them into settlement. If the judge has demonstrated bias against your client or for the other side, a jury may give you a fresh look at the facts and a more favorable outcome.

Money is almost always a consideration for all parties involved in a family law case. Jury trials are far more expensive and last longer than a trial before the court. If one side is more financially sound than the other, requesting a jury trial can move the opposing side towards settlement. A request for a jury trial may persuade an irrational party to settle so that their dirty laundry it not publicly aired in front of a jury.