Family Law

A contested divorce typically begins with a temporary hearing where we establish temporary orders covering visitation schedules, child support, living arrangements, and bill payments. We then move toward mediation, a final hearing, or both, where we divide property and finalize all remaining matters. We guide you through each stage with clarity and care.

Child custody cases, known as Original Suits Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship (SAPCRs), allow us to establish paternity, set visitation schedules, and determine conservatorship. Like divorce, these cases typically begin with a temporary hearing and conclude through mediation, a final hearing, or both.

Child support is often addressed alongside divorce and custody proceedings. Texas calculates child support based on strict state guidelines tied to the paying parent's income and the number of children involved. We help ensure support obligations are calculated correctly and enforced when necessary.

When a party fails to comply with a court order, an enforcement action can be brought to compel compliance. This includes violations related to conservatorship rights and duties, possession and access, child support, property division ordered in a divorce decree, and injunction violations. For an order to be enforceable, it must specifically state what the other party is required to do.

A modification allows you to change an existing court order, most commonly involving child-related provisions. While modifications can be sought for various reasons, they typically require showing a material and substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered.

Adoption cases may involve foster parents, stepparents, or other relatives seeking to legally adopt a child. The process requires a home study and a Texas criminal background check. We handle the legal requirements and guide families through every step of this rewarding process.

Parental rights can be terminated in several ways, including a parent's voluntary relinquishment, failure to pay child support, placing a child in danger, abandonment, or abuse. An amicus attorney is often required to be involved in these proceedings to represent the best interests of the child.

Protective orders are available in cases involving family violence against you, a child, or a household member. We assist clients in obtaining protective orders to keep their families safe, and we also defend clients against protective order applications.

In Texas, it is becoming increasingly difficult to bring non-parent custody cases against a parent, but these cases do arise and require experienced representation. We handle both the pursuit and defense of non-parent custody matters, including those involving grandparents and other relatives.