Board Certified® Fort Worth & Southlake

Fort Worth Divorce &
Family Law Mediation

100+ years of combined experience including four Board Certified attorneys.

Complex, high-asset divorce and property division
Business owner divorce and valuation disputes
Contested custody and conservatorship
Trial-ready representation in Tarrant County courts

       
 
 
 4.8 
   Top Rated Service 2026
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 Trustindex verifies that the company has a review score above 4.5, based on reviews collected on Google over the past 12 months, qualifying it to receive the Top Rated Certificate.

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Fort Worth Mediators

Divorce, Custody, Child Support, & Property Division

Divorce mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral, trained mediator helps you and your spouse negotiate a settlement — on property, custody, and support — without going to trial. The mediator does not take sides, give legal advice, or decide your case; you stay in control of the outcome. The Fort Worth mediators at Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, including a former associate judge, guide divorcing couples toward practical, durable agreements.

Even the most amicable of divorces may still involve disputes when it comes to custody, child support, and division of property. If you are interested in exploring an alternative to litigation, divorce mediation can be a more collaborative and effective way to resolve your divorce. With decades of combined experience, the skilled mediators at Mims Ballew Hollingsworth have successfully mediated the full range of family law matters and are ready to assist with your case from our Fort Worth and Southlake locations.

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At a Glance

At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we help families in Fort Worth and across Tarrant County resolve divorce and family law disputes through skilled, solution-focused mediation. Our team brings more than 100 years of combined family law experience, including Board Certified family law attorneys and experienced mediators Bryan Ballew and former Associate Judge Matt Riek.

We mediate divorce, child custody, child support, and property division matters with a focus on reducing conflict, protecting privacy, and helping parties reach practical, durable agreements. Whether your case is handled in person, virtually, or at a location convenient for you, we provide a professional and efficient process tailored to your needs.

Recognized by Super Lawyers, Martindale-Hubbell, and Fort Worth Magazine’s Top Attorneys, we combine deep family law knowledge with a balanced approach designed to move cases toward resolution.

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On this page

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– Member

Matt Riek

Matt Riek is an esteemed family law attorney and mediator with over 25 years of professional experience. He came to MBH Family Law after eight years as an Associate Judge for the 360th District Court in Fort Worth.

During his time on the bench, Matt handled complex family law cases and led the Tarrant County Family Recovery Court. In this role, he made a meaningful difference by helping families work through challenging situations and move toward healing. His compassionate approach and legal expertise earned him widespread respect among colleagues in the legal community.

About Matt

Former Associate Judge of the 360th District Court in Fort Worth
Trained professional mediator
Board Certified® in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Texas Super Lawyer
Offers secure virtual mediation sessions and/or can travel to your location

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– Founding Member

Bryan Ballew

With over 17 years in private practice, Bryan has represented clients in all aspects of divorce, custody, and related family matters. Bryan has successfully mediated the full range of family law matters over this time.

As a skilled family law attorney, Bryan brings a wealth of experience in resolving sensitive family court cases and disputes. Bryan is committed to the principle that helping people involved in a divorce or child custody dispute reach resolution results in better, more durable decisions about the most important aspects of their lives.

About Bryan

Trained professional mediator, including training in conflict resolution techniques tailored to family law matters
Board Certified® in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Recognized as a trusted divorce mediation attorney for Fort Worth and surrounding communities
Conducts secure virtual mediation sessions or travels to your location

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Reviews

We’re proud of the praise we receive from clients who appreciate our integrity, responsiveness, and thorough preparation.

      
 Excellent4.869 reviews
 4.8
 Excellent69 reviews
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   Ryan Carreker 
 52 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Andrew did a terrific job handing my case with a very positive outcome. Excellent representation from start to finish.
  
 
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   Megan Thomas 
 53 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely Amazing Attorney!
This is for Haley Shaw!!! I cannot say enough good things about my experience with this attorney. From the very beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and truly listened to my concerns. They took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood my options every step of the way.
What stood out to me most was how genuinely they cared about helping me. I never felt like just another case or another number. They were responsive, honest, and worked incredibly hard to get the best possible outcome.
Going through a legal situation can be extremely stressful, but having an attorney who is trustworthy, understanding, and truly fights for their clients makes all the difference. I am extremely grateful for everything they did for me and would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for an attorney.
If you’re looking for someone who knows their stuff and genuinely cares about their clients, I highly recommend them! 10/10! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tristan Southers 
 57 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There's not a firm I would ever trust more than this one not I hope to ever need a lawyer again but if I do I will definitely be coming back here and asking for Haley. Not only is she very caring and sympathetic to whatever the cause is and you can tell she cares, but makes sure you understand everything and walks you through the whole thing so your prepared. She got me everything I asked for with my son and there's not another lawyer I would use besides her! Thank you for everything!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Andressa Hinton 
 73 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When I began my divorce and after working with several attorneys along the way, I quickly realized this was anything but a typical case. It involved a high-net-worth marital estate, a family business, complex financial issues, and legal matters that demanded not only exceptional expertise in family law, but also a strong understanding of business, corporate structures, valuation, strategy, patience, and unwavering dedication.
Unfortunately, not every attorney I consulted with or even hired possessed that combination of knowledge or the ability to confidently navigate a case of this complexity.

Then I found MBH Law Firm, and the rest is history.

From day one, Kelly Hollingsworth and Allison Luttrell exceeded every expectation I had.

They immediately understood the complexities of my case and approached it with confidence, clarity, and a well-defined strategy tailored specifically to my circumstances. Their ability to see the bigger picture while never losing sight of the smallest details is what truly set them apart.

Kelly is the type of attorney you want standing beside you when everything that matters is on the line. He is incredibly knowledgeable, strategic, honest, and always several steps ahead. He has an exceptional ability to break down complex legal and financial issues into terms that are easy to understand while developing a thoughtful strategy focused on achieving the best possible outcome. He doesn't need to be the loudest person in the room to command respect. He is deliberate, calculated, and exceptionally prepared. Throughout one of the most challenging times of my life, I never questioned whether he was fighting for my best interests.

Allison has been equally outstanding. Her responsiveness, professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine compassion never went unnoticed. She consistently kept me informed, ensured every deadline was met, and handled every aspect of my case with precision and care. No question was ever too small, and no concern was ever dismissed.

Together, Kelly and Allison made an exceptional team.
What impressed me most was their ability to manage an emotionally difficult divorce while simultaneously navigating complicated business valuation issues, corporate ownership concerns, financial records, negotiations, and the countless legal complexities that accompany a high-asset case. They remained extremely focused, prepared, and strategic every step of the way.
They took the time to understand my goals, listened carefully, and provided honest guidance, even when the answers weren't always easy to hear. That level of transparency and trust is invaluable.

If you are facing a divorce involving significant assets, business interests, or complex financial matters, I cannot recommend Kelly Hollingsworth, Allison Luttrell, and MBH Law Firm highly enough. Their legal knowledge, business acumen, work ethic, communication, and unwavering dedication are truly second to none.

I am incredibly grateful for everything they have done on my behalf. They didn't simply represent me…they advocated for me, protected my interests, and gave me confidence during one of the most difficult chapters of my life.

Five stars simply isn’t enough as they have earned my highest respect, complete trust, and strongest possible recommendation.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Patrick Misencik 
 96 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Andrew McAlester was my lawyer for my divorce. He was very honest with me while still listening and understanding my unique situation and advocating for my needs. I highly recommend him for anyone who is going through a divorce.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Rebekah Thomas 
 170 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alexis Gerbhardt was referred to me & I’m so glad she was! She was educational & supportive and made a hard situation easier. I highly recommend her!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hal Needham 
 175 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Andrew McAlester represented me in a family law case. He is extremely competent and understands the law very well. At the same time, he was compassionate and caring, as well as an excellent communicator. I would highly recommend Andrew for your legal needs.
  
 
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   Diana Dyer 
 205 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot recommend Constance Mims highly enough. After my first lawyer left my case in a complete mess, finding her was truly a blessing. From the very beginning, she took the time to dig deep and uncover every piece of supporting evidence needed to strengthen my case. Her attention to detail and commitment to truth gave me confidence during a very difficult time.

What sets her apart is her clear, honest communication—you always know exactly what to expect. She keeps everything transparent and uses a very user-friendly online system that makes staying informed and sharing documents simple and stress-free.

She is warm, approachable, and never pushy, which made working with her feel comfortable and supportive. At the same time, she is incredibly sharp and knowledgeable—she knows the law inside and out and handles everything with intelligence and precision. She is also very mindful of your time and money, staying efficient and focused without ever cutting corners.

Most importantly, she genuinely cares. She advocates strongly for the children involved and leads with integrity and compassion. It’s rare to find someone who balances professionalism, strength, and kindness so well. I truly believe she is a woman of faith, and it shows in the way she serves her clients.

If you’re looking for someone who will fight for you, guide you with honesty, and bring clarity to a complicated situation, she is the one you want on your side.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Austin Hanson 
 223 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alexis helped me make smart and informed decisions. The divorce process is not easy emotionally and they take care of the hard work.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tim Stapula 
 252 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot emphasize enough how top-notch this firm is. I worked exclusively with Andrew McAlester as my lead attorney. His knowledge of the law cannot be questioned. His no-nonsense approach telling me straight-up what I can expect and what the outcome would be because the laws are the laws. That held true. He is very efficient as well, helping to keep the overall cost down. He guided me through one of the worst periods of my life not only as my lawyer, but also provided sympathetic friend-like support as I was losing my wife and best friend. This divorce was the worst thing I’ve ever gone through, and he handled my situation perfectly. When I needed tough love I got it. When I needed a brother to just talk to, I got it. When I needed ANYTHING from him, I got it. Andrew is simply a rock-star.

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The Role of Mediation in Texas Divorces

Mediation is a structured negotiation process managed by a neutral third party: the mediator. A mediator is a neutral, trained professional who facilitates communication between the parties, helping divorcing couples communicate, resolve conflicts, and reach mutually acceptable agreements about their divorce without going to court.

Our mediators do NOT make decisions for the couple, provide legal advice, take sides, or force a resolution. Instead, they guide the process, ensure balanced dialogue, and help couples find their own collaborative solutions. This is why many families prefer working with a local mediation attorney who understands the local courts and community.

Under the Texas Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, it is the policy of this state to encourage the peaceable resolution of disputes, with special consideration given to disputes involving the parent-child relationship.

Why Consider a Divorce Mediator in Fort Worth?

Divorcing Fort Worth couples who choose professional mediation experience significant benefits. Divorce mediation is:

Cost-effective: Mediation is typically less expensive than traditional litigation, as it requires fewer sessions and avoids many court-related costs.
Time-efficient: The process is generally faster than court proceedings, allowing couples to resolve their divorce more quickly.
Child-focused: Mediation prioritizes the well-being of children, encouraging parents to make decisions that best serve their kids’ interests.
Empowering and fair: Couples maintain control over the decision-making process, leading to more personalized and mutually agreeable solutions.
Less stressful: The collaborative nature of mediation makes it less emotionally draining and contentious than litigation.

Confidential and private: Unlike public court proceedings, mediation discussions remain confidential.
Flexible: Mediation allows for creative solutions tailored to the couple’s unique circumstances.
More likely to be complied with: Agreements reached through mediation are more likely to be followed by both parties, as they had a hand in creating them.
More comprehensive: Mediation can address a wider range of issues, including practical life matters beyond legal requirements.
Conciliatory: The collaborative approach can promote better post-divorce relationships and lead to healthier interactions between ex-spouses, which is especially important when co-parenting.

The ultimate goal of divorce mediation is to help the individuals reach a fair, mutually satisfactory agreement on all aspects of their separation—including property division, child custody, and financial matters—in a cooperative, cost-effective manner that minimizes conflict and preserves relationships, especially when children are involved.

Contract, signature and attorney consulting a client in his office with legal paperwork or agreement. Signature, approval and male lawyer in discussion with woman with a document to sign in workplace.

What to Expect in

Divorce Mediation with MBH

When preparing for mediation, carefully gather all necessary documents related to your case, including financial records and relevant correspondence. Most people choose to be counseled and assisted by their own family law attorney through the mediation process. You are encouraged to thoughtfully identify your priorities and goals for the mediation process, and come to mediation prepared to discuss your case openly and honestly with your attorney and the mediator.

Your MBH mediator will provide clear, consistent communication throughout the mediation process. You can expect timely responses to your questions, honest conversations about your case and its potential outcomes, and a personalized approach.

We are committed to maintaining sensitivity when addressing complex and potentially sensitive issues, ensuring you feel supported, heard, and confident throughout the mediation process. Our goal is to guide you through this challenging transition with professionalism, empathy, and a strategic focus on achieving solutions – all led by experienced mediation lawyers dedicated to balanced, effective dialogue.

Our mediators are available to travel and conduct mediation at a location that best serves your needs. We also provide secure virtual mediation options, ensuring a streamlined and effective process designed around your schedule and circumstances.

The Divorce Mediation Process in Texas

How does divorce mediation work in Texas? The process typically follows these steps:

Pre-mediation stage: Couples gather necessary documents and identify priorities. You may have a pre-mediation conference with the mediator.
Mediation sessions: Parties meet in a neutral setting to discuss issues, negotiate, and explore solutions with the mediator’s guidance.
Agreement drafting: Once an agreement is reached, the mediator drafts a Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA).
Review by attorneys: Each party’s attorney reviews the MSA to ensure it’s legally sound.
Signing the agreement: Both parties and their attorneys sign the MSA, which must include a statement that it’s not subject to revocation.
Court submission: The signed MSA is submitted to the court for approval.
Incorporation into divorce decree: If approved, the court incorporates the MSA into the final divorce decree.

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Key Aspects of Texas Divorce Mediation

Remember, the mediator acts as a neutral facilitator, not a decision-maker. Also, remember that Texas divorce mediation:

Is a voluntary and confidential process.
Is less costly and adversarial than traditional litigation.
Can occur before or after filing for divorce.
Addresses issues like property division, child custody, and support.
Is binding once signed, unless there is evidence of fraud or duress.

Mediation in Texas aims to provide a collaborative, efficient approach to resolving divorce-related disputes while giving couples control over the outcome.

Content reviewed by Constance Mims, a Board Certified family law attorney (Texas Board of Legal Specialization). Last Updated: June 2026.

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Professional Mediator at MBH Family Law

At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we approach divorce mediation with compassion and understanding. Our mediation lawyers in Fort Worth prioritize your family’s well-being, focusing on respectful communication and constructive solutions that honor everyone’s dignity and future potential.

MBH mediators can travel to provide mediation services at your location. We also offer secure virtual mediation sessions, providing a seamless and efficient process tailored to your needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is divorce mediation in Texas?

Divorce mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral mediator helps you and your spouse reach a settlement on property, custody, and support without going to trial. The mediator guides the conversation but does not decide your case.

Can what I say in mediation be used against me later?

Generally, no. Communications made during mediation are confidential and, under Texas law, are privileged and not admissible in court. This lets both sides speak candidly while working toward a settlement. See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 154.073.

Is mediation required before a divorce trial in Texas?

In many Texas family law cases, the court orders the parties to attempt mediation before a contested trial. Whether it is required in your case depends on the court and your specific circumstances.

When is mediation not the right choice?

Mediation works best when both spouses can negotiate safely and in good faith. It may not be appropriate where there is family violence, a serious power imbalance, or a spouse who refuses to disclose assets. We can help you assess whether mediation fits your situation. For questions about protective orders, speak with our Fort Worth protective order lawyers.

Is a mediated settlement agreement binding?

Yes. Once a Texas mediated settlement agreement (MSA) meets the statutory requirements and is signed, it is binding, generally cannot be revoked, and the court will typically incorporate it into your final order. Tex. Fam. Code § 6.602.

Can mediation resolve child custody and support too?

Yes. Mediation can resolve custody and possession schedules, child support, and property division together in one process.

Do virtual mediation sessions work the same way?

Yes. MBH offers secure virtual mediation with the same confidentiality and process as in-person sessions, and our mediators can also travel to a location convenient for you.

How much does divorce mediation cost, and who pays for it?

Mediation is typically billed hourly, split between both spouses unless you agree otherwise, and - because it requires fewer sessions and avoids many court costs - generally costs significantly less than taking a contested issue to trial.

How do I prepare for divorce mediation?

Start by gathering the financial records and documents relevant to your case, and identify your priorities and goals before the session. Most people work with their own family law attorney throughout the process, both to prepare beforehand and to review any agreement before signing.

Do I need my own lawyer if I'm going through mediation?

It's not required, but it's strongly recommended. The mediator is a neutral facilitator who doesn't give legal advice, take sides, or tell you whether a proposed settlement is fair to you specifically - that's your attorney's role. Most people choose to have their own attorney counsel them through the process and review the final Mediated Settlement Agreement before signing, since it becomes binding.

How does divorce mediation work in Texas?

The process generally follows several stages: gathering documents and identifying priorities beforehand, meeting with the mediator to negotiate (in person or virtually), drafting a Mediated Settlement Agreement once you reach terms, having each spouse's attorney review it, signing it, and submitting it to the court, which then incorporates it into your final divorce decree. Texas mediation is voluntary, confidential, and binding under the Texas Alternative Dispute Resolution Act.

How long after mediation is a divorce final in Texas?

It depends on timing relative to your 60-day waiting period. If mediation happens after that period has already run, the decree can often be finalized within a matter of weeks once the Mediated Settlement Agreement is drafted, reviewed, and signed. If mediation happens earlier in the process, the divorce still can't be finalized until the mandatory 60-day period from filing has passed, regardless of how quickly you reach an agreement.

Is divorce mediation worth it?

For most couples who can negotiate in good faith, yes - mediation tends to be faster, more private, less expensive, and more likely to result in an agreement both spouses actually follow, since they had a hand in creating it. It's generally not the right fit when there's family violence, a serious power imbalance, or a spouse who won't disclose assets honestly, which is why our firm evaluates fit for mediation on a case-by-case basis.

What shouldn't I say or do during mediation?

Avoid ultimatums, rehashing past grievances instead of working toward solutions, and withholding financial information. Full disclosure is essential for a mediated agreement to hold up. Come prepared to negotiate in good faith; mediation works best when both sides are honest about priorities rather than treating it as a bargaining tactic to avoid court.

What are the different types of mediation?

Family law mediation is generally facilitative. The mediator guides communication and helps both sides reach their own agreement without recommending outcomes, which is the model MBH's mediators use. Other styles exist, like evaluative mediation, where the mediator offers an assessment of how a judge might rule, and transformative mediation, which focuses on improving communication between the parties as much as reaching a settlement. Most Texas family law mediators use the facilitative approach.

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Fort Worth Divorce &
Family Law Mediation

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