HOW FAMILY COURTS VIEW “SPLIT CUSTODY” IN A DIVORCE CASE When you are involved in divorce proceedings where children are involved, it’s going to be a difficult time for the children, and any final outcome will be a big adjustment. This is especially true when you have multiple children together. Many tough decisions must be…
How Domestic Violence May Affect Child Custody Determinations An allegation of domestic abuse has the potential to have the greatest impact on child custody and visitation rulings. In Texas, the family court must, by law, consider all domestic violence concerns before awarding child custody (now known as “managing conservatorship” in Texas). If you have been…
An Overview on Child Support Obligations in Texas One of the most hypersensitive issues affecting separated and divorced parents is financial support for children. Child support disputes are not uncommon. The mistake many parents make is taking an action, like stopping payments, without considering the consequences.For example, a custodial parent may feel visitations can be…
MODIFYING YOUR CHILD SUPPORT IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO PAY When noncustodial parents cannot pay the child support payments that they have been ordered to make, they need to contact the court clerk and the Office of the Attorney General right away. The court does not reduce or reimburse payments if parents fall behind on…
How Courts Determine Who Will Be the Child’s Primary Caretaker Family law matters are not something that courts take lightly, especially when there is a child involved. When parents are battling for custody of their child, there are several things that the courts will look at to help them make the right decision. A parent’s…
4 BASIC STEPS IN TEXAS DIVORCE CASES 1. Filing the petition One of the parties must first file a petition with the court called the “Original Petition for Divorce” (along with paying the requisite court fee). This petition essentially starts the divorce process. The appropriate jurisdiction where the petition must be filed will depend on…
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE BEEN SERVED CHILD SUPPORT DOCUMENTS AND HAVE A COURT DATE When a parent receives notice of a court hearing, there are some important things that they should know about the process. By understanding the rules, Texas parent can avoid multiple potential problems. People should not think that they…
Child Custody and Domestic Violence If you are in a violent relationship, you have a different set of issues to consider when you separate or divorce, especially in relation to your children. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you and your kids make a safe transition. Keep Good Records As long…
How Domestic Violence Affects Child Custody in a Divorce In a divorce case, child custody is an inherently sensitive issue that can result in significant disagreements between separating couples. When confronted with a child custody struggle, it is important that you document your spouse’s past behavioral history, especially if any instances of domestic violence have…
Basic Requirements for Common Law Marriages in Texas Texas recognizes a type of marriage known as “common law” marriage. What are the elements required to establish a common law marriage? You only need three (3) things: • You must have lived together in the State of Texas • You must intend to be presently married…
