Adopt a Child

Can I Adopt a Child Without My Spouse Knowing?

Adopting a child automatically comes with plenty of exciting, albeit legal and emotional, complexities. And more often than not, both would-be parents are on the same page and eager to walk this journey together. However, what happens when one spouse attempts to adopt without the other’s consent or knowledge? Is it even possible to adopt…

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After Adoption

What If Birth Parents Want Their Child Back After Adoption?

You just finalized the adoption of your new daughter. Everything is perfect, and you can’t wait to get her home and start a new life together. But after a few months of family bliss, you’re caught by surprise when you’re told the birth parents have had a change of heart. They want their child back—sooner…

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Custody Cases

Do Texas Courts Prefer Mothers Over Fathers in Custody Cases?

For many years, it has been perceived that mothers are favored over fathers in child custody cases. There may have been some truth to that in the past, but not today. Regardless of your personal beliefs on this matter, the reality is that Texas courts focus on one thing above all else—the best interest of…

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Grandparents

Can Grandparents File for Custody if Both Parents are Unfit?

Your home has become a refuge for your granddaughter as her parents became lost in the grips of addiction. While you tried to be understanding at first, you are beginning to wonder if the parents are unfit and if it would be better to file for custody. You are more than willing. After all, your…

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Custody

How Does the Court Determine if a Parent is Fit for Custody?

When parents divorce, one of the most challenging questions they face is who will care for their child. For the court, the answer isn’t always clear-cut. Determining if a parent is fit for custody goes beyond just providing a home—it’s about ensuring a safe, loving, encouraging environment where the child can thrive. In this emotional…

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Alimony

Can Alimony Be Paid in a Lump Sum?

When spousal maintenance (alimony) is approved in a divorce, most people picture monthly payments made from one spouse to the other. And for the most part, they are correct. But did you know there’s another option? Sometimes, alimony can be paid in one lump sum, offering both parties a quicker, cleaner financial break. Would this…

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Support Payments

How Long Does It Take for Child Support Payments To Start?

For parents relying on child support payments, one of the biggest concerns is how long it will take for those payments to start once they’ve been approved. In Texas, the timeline depends on several factors, including whether the noncustodial parent is cooperative, whether a court order is needed, and how quickly the wage withholding can…

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personal injury settlement

Can Child Support Be Taken from a Personal Injury Settlement?

Amid the stress of hospital visits and paperwork from your recent car accident, you finally secured the long-overdue personal injury settlement that promises to help you rebuild your life. But right before receiving it, you are hit with an unexpected shock. Much of the money that will help you get back on your feet might…

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Vehicle Ownership

How Does Texas Handle Vehicle Ownership in a Divorce?

Imagine owning a beautiful truck or gorgeous sports car. It has been customized to your exact style and specifications and represents hard work, personal freedom, and even a sense of pride. Even your spouse is happy for you and wouldn’t dare drive it. But what happens when life unexpectedly turns, and divorce enters the picture?…

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request Alimony

Can You Request Alimony After Your Divorce is Final?

Contrary to popular belief, whether or not someone is awarded spousal maintenance (also known as alimony) isn’t guaranteed in every divorce. Sure, a judge will look at all factors, including both parties’ abilities to financially care for themselves when they no longer have access to shared budgets, assets, and even shared financial goals to ensure…

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