Family Law Blog
Educational articles on Texas family law topics
Characterizing Marital Property
October 30, 2013
Understanding how Texas courts classify property as community or separate is essential in any divorce. The characterization of marital property directly affects how assets and debts are divided.
DivorceFactors Affecting Division of Community Property
October 23, 2013
Texas law requires a 'just and right' division of community property, but that does not always mean a 50/50 split. Courts weigh a variety of factors when deciding how to divide the marital estate.
DivorceWhat is an Inventory and Appraisement?
October 4, 2013
An Inventory and Appraisement is a sworn document listing all assets and debts in a Texas divorce. It forms the foundation for property division negotiations and trial.
DivorceIn The News: Filing for Divorce Online
April 5, 2013
Online divorce services have gained attention as a low-cost alternative, but understanding their limitations under Texas law is important before choosing this route.
DivorceEnforcement of Final Decrees and Orders
January 23, 2013
When an ex-spouse fails to comply with a final divorce decree or court order, Texas law provides several enforcement mechanisms including contempt of court.
DivorceCan I Be Reimbursed Money Used to Pay Debt During Marriage?
January 23, 2013
Texas law allows claims for reimbursement when one marital estate's funds are used to benefit another. Understanding these claims can significantly impact property division.
DivorceAm I Eligible For Spousal Support?
January 23, 2013
Spousal maintenance in Texas has strict eligibility requirements. Not every divorcing spouse qualifies, and the amount and duration are limited by statute.
DivorceWhat is Community Property? What is Separate Property?
January 21, 2013
Texas is one of nine community property states. Knowing the difference between community and separate property is fundamental to understanding how assets are divided in a Texas divorce.
DivorceWhat Does It Mean to Have Fault/No-Fault Divorce?
January 17, 2013
Texas allows both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. The distinction affects property division, spousal support, and other aspects of the final decree.
CustodyFactors to Determine Best Interests of a Child
October 28, 2013
The 'best interests of the child' standard is the cornerstone of Texas custody law. Courts evaluate a broad set of factors to determine what arrangement serves the child's welfare.
CustodyFactors to Consider for Relocation
October 4, 2013
Relocating with a child after a custody order requires careful consideration of Texas law. Courts evaluate numerous factors to determine whether a move serves the child's best interests.
CustodyWhat Does the Court Consider When Determining Custody?
January 23, 2013
Texas courts consider a comprehensive set of factors when determining custody arrangements. The child's safety, stability, and emotional well-being guide every decision.
CustodyGrandparents' Rights
January 23, 2013
Grandparents in Texas have limited but important legal rights to seek access to their grandchildren under specific circumstances defined by the Texas Family Code.
CustodyModification of Texas Orders
January 21, 2013
Texas court orders for custody and support are not permanent. When circumstances change materially, the Texas Family Code provides a process for modifying existing orders.
CustodyRelocation
January 21, 2013
Relocation with a child after a Texas custody order involves legal restrictions and potential court proceedings. Parents must understand their obligations before planning a move.
CustodyJoint Managing vs. Sole Managing Conservatorship
January 21, 2013
Texas custody law distinguishes between joint managing and sole managing conservatorship. Understanding the differences is essential for parents navigating custody disputes.
CustodyWhat is the Standard Possession Order?
January 21, 2013
The Standard Possession Order is the default visitation schedule in Texas custody cases. It establishes a structured framework for when each parent has time with the child.
Child SupportHow is Child Support Calculated?
January 21, 2013
Texas uses a percentage-of-income model to calculate child support. Understanding the formula and what counts as income is essential for both the paying and receiving parent.
Child SupportChild Support with Children from Previous Relationships
February 5, 2013
When a parent has children from multiple relationships, Texas law adjusts child support calculations to account for the existing obligations. The formula ensures fairness across households.
Child SupportMaximum Health Insurance Cost for Child Support
February 5, 2013
Texas law requires courts to address health insurance coverage for children in support orders. There are guidelines for how much a parent can be required to pay for premiums.
Child SupportRetroactive Child Support Before Paternity Established
February 5, 2013
Texas law allows courts to order retroactive child support dating back to the child's birth in paternity cases, even before a formal support order existed.
Child SupportChild Support When Obligor Quits or Is Underemployed
February 5, 2013
When a parent intentionally reduces their income to avoid child support obligations, Texas courts can impute income based on earning potential rather than actual earnings.