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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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?…

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…

In Texas, divorce settlements often include alimony or spousal support to help with the financial transition. However, if the spouse responsible for these payments dies, the arrangement usually stops unless an alternate plan exists. In most cases, the divorce decree doesn’t require the deceased’s estate to pick up where the payments left off. Without a…