Divorce

Divorce is very often an emotional process that not only impacts the two people getting divorced, but children and extended family members. Oftentimes this process can feel overwhelming, and, given everything that is involved, it is important to have a knowledgeable family law attorney with experience in the Court in which your divorce will be handled representing you.

Sometimes, the parties are in agreement on how they want to settle their divorce before ever speaking with an attorney. We can also assist with ensuring the paperwork is drafted and filed correctly to help prevent problems in the future.

Child Custody

The issue of child custody is critical to the health, safety, and well-being of the child. Under Texas law, the best interest of the child is the paramount consideration in child custody determinations. There are many factors involved in determining the best interest of the child and therefore, child custody. We are here to advocate for that.

Possession & Access of Children

While the Texas Family Code provides for a standard possession order, what that order means for you and the nuances of the standard possession order are complicated and complex. Oftentimes, standard visitation is not appropriate or desired by one party or both. We have experience in complex possession and access litigation dealing with substances abuse, abuse and neglect, work schedules, mental health, and other issues that significantly affect a possession and access schedule.

Child Support

In Texas, the Family Code establishes a presumption that the guideline child support calculation is in the best interest of the child. This means that the “non-primary” parent will pay child support based on a formula established by the Family Code. There are instances where the guidelines may be unjust or inappropriate. When determining conservatorship (custody) and possession and access, the court will also calculate and establish child support and medical support and it is important that you have an attorney who understands and can explain and discuss these issues with you.

Modifications

As time goes on, situations and circumstances for parents and children evolve and change. Modifications can be just as emotionally charged and complex as original custody determinations or divorces. The law allows for modifications of child custody, possession and access, and child support in certain instances. It is incredibly important that you discuss with an attorney whether you can meet the criteria for a modification and analyze what the process of a modification can look like and what the final outcome may be.

Enforcement of Court Orders

Sometimes people do not follow through on agreements made between the parties, are unable to follow the court order for a variety of reasons, or simply refuse to follow the orders. Enforcement actions often seek contempt of court, which may include a request for the non-compliant party to be jailed. Because one person’s liberty and freedom is on the line, the burden of proof in enforcement actions is higher than other civil cases. Whether you are seeking an enforcement or defending against an enforcement action, it is vital to have an experienced attorney to assist you.

Paternity

Issues of paternity need to be addressed as early as possible, especially before signing any documents. With advancements in DNA testing, paternity can normally be easily established. We encourage you to contact us if you believe there is an issue involving paternity of a child.

Mediation

Family law and domestic relations issues can be stressful, but mediation gives the parties a chance to work through disagreements in a calmer, more cooperative way. Instead of battling it out in court and having a Judge who does not know you, your family, or your history decide what your future will look like, mediation involves a neutral third party going back and forth and talking through the law, the issues, and your family circumstances so both parties can find a solution that is tailored to you.

Mediation fees:

Half-day: $625.00 per party

Full-day: $1,250.00 per party

* Prices are subject to change.

Termination & Adoption

Both Texas law and the United States Constitution protect the right to parent. Significant caselaw has led to a change in the Family Code to further strengthen the right to parent. However, there are still instances where terminating one parent’s rights may be appropriate. There are also many families, including step-parents, who wish to legally adopt children. Because this area of the law is one of the most heavily litigated in all of family law, it is vitally important to have an experienced attorney to represent you in these matters.