Facing a family law dispute? Working with a Board Certified mediator matters.
Attorney Kate Smith, LL.M is a Master Credentialed Collaborative Professional serving Southlake. Unlike most mediators who complete only 40 hours of basic training, Kate holds an LL.M in Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine University School of Law.
Whether you need help with property division, mediation offers a confidential alternative to public divorce trials.
Why Choose a Board Certified Mediator
- LL.M in Dispute Resolution: Pepperdine University School of Law
- Board Certified in Family Law: Since 2015
- Master Credentialed Collaborative Professional: Highest level of collaborative credentialing
- 20+ Years Experience: Hundreds of successful mediations
Benefits of Mediation for Colleyville Families
- ???? More Privacy: Mediation keeps sensitive financial and parenting issues out of open court
- ⚖️ More Control: You shape the agreement instead of a judge
- ???? Less Conflict: Especially important when children are involved
- ???? Potential Cost Savings: Resolve issues earlier and reduce legal expenses
- ???? Legally Meaningful Results: Mediated Settlement Agreements are binding under Texas law
The 6-Step Mediation Process
- Preparation: Your attorney helps you gather financial documents and identify priorities
- Opening Session: Both parties understand how the day will work
- Separate Negotiation: The mediator meets privately with each side to explore concerns
- Settlement Terms: Narrow areas of disagreement
- Written Agreement: Terms are reduced to a Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA)
- Finalization: Becomes a legally binding final order
Understanding the MSA
A Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA) is the written contract signed at the conclusion of a successful mediation session. Under Texas Family Code Section 6.602, an MSA is binding and irrevocable — meaning that once signed, the agreement is final.
An MSA may address:
- Property division and debt allocation
- Child custody, parenting time, and visitation schedules
- Financial support for children
- Maintenance agreements
Areas We Serve
The Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC serves clients throughout Tarrant County, including:
Trophy Club.
Common Questions Colleyville Families Ask
Is mediation required for divorce in Texas?
Some Texas courts strongly encourage or require mediation before trial. Whether mediation is required depends on the court and the facts of your case.
How long does mediation usually take?
Most family law mediations are completed in one session — typically a half-day (4 hours) or full day (8 hours).
Can mediation help with child custody issues?
Parents who mediate often report better long-term co-parenting relationships.
Do I still need a lawyer during mediation?
Having your own cost of divorce mediation Texas attorney is strongly recommended.
Is mediation confidential in Texas?
Nothing said in mediation can be used against you in court.
What is the cost of divorce mediation in Texas?
Costs vary, but mediation is almost always significantly less expensive than contested litigation.
Ready to Discuss Mediation?
Call (817) 479-0534 to speak with Board Certified Mediation Attorney Kate Smith. Same-day consultations may be available.
Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC
6500 Colleyville Blvd., Suite 100
Colleyville, TX 76034
No Obligation