When you’re facing divorce in Frisco, Texas, choosing mediation can be a strategic, cost-effective, and private way to resolve the most personal aspects of your separation—property division, parenting time, and spousal support. But walking into mediation unprepared can result in frustration, delays, or missed opportunities to protect your interests.
At Albin Oldner Law, our experienced Frisco divorce attorneys regularly help clients through the Texas divorce mediation process. This guide offers a complete checklist of what to know, what to bring, and how to prepare, so you can confidently navigate your mediation session.
What is divorce mediation in Texas?
Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third party (the mediator) facilitates negotiation between spouses. It’s not therapy or legal representation—it’s a structured process to help both parties reach a voluntary agreement.
In Collin County and Denton County, mediation is commonly court-ordered in contested divorces, especially those involving children. According to Texas Family Code § 6.602, a mediated settlement agreement (MSA) is binding and enforceable if it meets certain requirements—such as being signed by both parties and their attorneys.
Texas divorce mediation checklist
Whether you’ve been ordered to mediate or are choosing it voluntarily, the checklist below will help you get organized and informed before the big day.
1. Gather and organize essential financial documents
Full financial disclosure is critical for productive mediation. Bring copies of all documentation related to your income, expenses, assets, and debts.
What to bring:
- Tax returns (last 2–3 years)
- Recent pay stubs or income statements
- Bank statements (checking, savings, money market accounts)
- Credit card statements and loan documents
- Mortgage or lease agreements
- Vehicle titles and outstanding auto loans
- Investment account statements (401(k), IRA, brokerage)
- Business financials (if self-employed)
- Property deeds and valuations (including the Frisco family home or vacation homes)
- Life insurance policies
2. Know your community and separate property
Texas is a community property state, which means most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are subject to equitable division under Texas Family Code § 7.001. However, separate property—such as inheritances or assets acquired before marriage—may not be divided.
You should:
- Identify what you believe is community vs. separate property.
- Bring documentation proving separate property status, if applicable.
- Discuss any commingling of assets with your lawyer beforehand.
3. Be prepared to discuss parenting plans
If children are involved, your mediation will include crafting a parenting plan that addresses:
- Conservatorship (legal decision-making)
- Possession and access (visitation schedules)
- Holidays, school breaks, and transportation
- Communication guidelines
- Child support (see Texas Family Code § 154)
- Health insurance
You’ll need to bring:
- Your preferred custody schedule
- Your child’s school calendar
- Proposed holiday/vacation arrangements
- Any documentation supporting your parenting role (school records, extracurriculars, etc.)
4. Clarify your goals and deal-breakers
Think through your priorities and where you’re willing to compromise. Consider:
- Do you want to keep the family home?
- Are you seeking spousal maintenance?
- What debts are you unwilling to assume?
- Are there family heirlooms or business interests you want to preserve?
Discuss these goals with your attorney ahead of time. We help clients develop a strategic negotiation plan to stay focused on what matters most.
Having this Inventory and Appraisement organized ahead of time allows mediation to run efficiently.
6. Prepare emotionally and mentally
Divorce is emotionally taxing—even in mediation. You’ll need to stay calm, focused, and open to compromise.
Tips to prepare:
- Avoid direct communication with your spouse beforehand unless advised by your attorney.
- Eat and rest well the night before.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques (deep breathing, visualization).
- Trust your attorney to speak on your behalf when emotions run high.
At Albin Oldner Law, we understand the emotional complexity of divorce and approach every mediation with compassionate but strategic advocacy.
7. Understand the mediator’s role and the process
In Texas, mediators are neutral facilitators, often attorneys or retired judges with experience in family law. Mediation typically takes place in a neutral setting or virtually, and both parties are typically in separate rooms with their lawyers (called “caucusing”).
You’ll likely have:
- A pre-mediation briefing with your attorney
- A full day (or half-day) session with the mediator
- A chance to review and sign a Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA) if you reach consensus
Remember: an MSA that meets statutory requirements is binding, even if you later change your mind. Be sure you fully understand the terms before signing.
Work with Frisco’s divorce mediation professionals
Divorce mediation can provide more privacy, control, and efficiency than traditional litigation—but only if you’re well-prepared. At Albin Oldner Law, our Frisco divorce lawyers are experienced in both mediation advocacy and courtroom litigation, so we’re ready to guide you no matter how your case unfolds.
Let’s help you walk into mediation prepared, confident, and focused on your future.
Call (214) 423-5100 or request a consultation online today to speak with a Frisco divorce mediation attorney.
