Family law covers a wide range of topics relating to family relationships. This can include adding to your family through adoptions or foster care. It can also include splitting your household through divorce and child custody agreements. These areas of law are complicated and difficult to navigate. They also tend to be some of the most emotionally charged topics as well. Having an experienced Family Law Lawyer at your side during any of these stressful times can make all the difference.
Adoption
Some couples choose to adopt because they are unable to have children of their own. These reasons may include health issues, infertility or being a same-sex couple. Others may wish to avoid passing on a particular genetic condition. Some may like to choose the gender of their child or some would prefer to raise older children. Some couples choose to adopt the child of a friend or family member who is currently unable, or may never again be able to care for their children. Regardless of the reason, adoption is a wonderful way to grow your family but it is rarely an easy or straightforward process. A lawyer specializing in family law will help you manage the mountains of paperwork. They’ll also ensure everything is filed on time and with the correct departments for successful adoption.
Alimony
One of the biggest reasons couples remain in unhappy marriages is concerns over their ability to maintain a comfortable living after divorce. With a skilled Family Law Attorney on your side, you can rest assured that your financial future is secure.
Child Custody and Visitation
Whether it is creating an agreement during your divorce proceedings, appealing the judge’s decision, or modifying an existing agreement, it is important to consult a lawyer specializing in family law. Appeals and modifications are much more challenging than creating an initial agreement. However, as your situation changes, a modification may become necessary. While some couples easily implement changes to their agreement on their own, not all parents are that lucky. Regardless of how good your relationship with your ex may be, ensuring your custody agreement accurately reflects your current arrangement can save you a lot of headaches later on. Hiring a lawyer to represent you protects your rights as a parent and the best interests of your children.
Child Support
Child support is an important part of safeguarding the welfare of your children after divorce. Coming to a fair and reasonable support agreement not only protects your children’s financial future, but also improves the likelihood of full child support compliance. An experienced lawyer is familiar with state laws regarding what you are entitled to or required to pay, and will work to guarantee a reasonable payment schedule.
Child Support Modification and Enforcement
Child support payments remain the same unless or until the court modifies the agreement. From time to time your agreement may need modifying to reflect changes in yours or your ex-spouse’s financial situation. If you or your ex is behind on payments you may need to go to court to resolve the issue. A Family Law Attorney will protect your rights as a parent and help ensure the most favorable outcome possible for your situation.
Divorce
Even when filing uncontested with little or no property to divide, divorce can be very stressful. It is even more difficult when involving children and substantial community property. Many individuals who attempt to file for divorce without the expertise of a Family Law Attorney find that their settlement was not in their favor, and are frustrated to learn that they have little to no legal recourse. Having a skilled lawyer on your side will help you protect both your assets and your rights, ensuring the best possible settlement for you and your family.
Juvenile Delinquency and Dependency Proceedings
A juvenile delinquent is a child who is at least 10 years old and under the age of 17, identified by the court as having committed a crime. During these proceedings a judge will determine an appropriate consequence for your child which may include fines, probation, placement in a detention center (as opposed to incarceration), or house arrest. They may also need to perform community service or other appropriate consequence for their crimes. While jail time is a possibility, it’s usually a last resort for cases of particularly brutal or heinous crimes.
Juvenile dependency cases are a whole different story. A juvenile may be the subject of a dependency case if their parent or guardian has neglected or abused them. These cases typically focus on creating a plan for reunification wherever possible. However, if the judge deems that reunification is not possible or would be detrimental to the child, they may be removed into the care of a relative or foster family.
Having an experienced Family Law Attorney on your side in either of these instances can help guarantee an outcome that serves the best interest of your child.
Mediation with a Family Law Lawyer
At Williams and Associates, we understand that divorce is a difficult time for families. Our attorneys dedicate themselves to finding the most peaceful solutions possible to marital disputes, especially those involving children. Mediation is the best tool in our box for achieving a quick and favorable outcome for your family. Mediation is often the best option for all parties. It keeps the decision making power in the hands of the parents instead of a judge’s discretion. Your attorney will work tirelessly to uphold your rights. They also will ensure your agreement is in compliance with the Texas Family Code.
Pre- and Post-Nuptial Agreements
Pre- and Post-Nuptial agreements are sort of a life insurance policy for your marriage. You hope never to have to use it, but a well crafted pre- or post-nuptial agreement provides you and your spouse much needed assurances. With guidance from a family law expert, you can rest easy knowing your interests are protected if divorce is necessary.
Whatever your need, our family law lawyers have the experience and qualifications to help. We understand the law inside and out. We’ll use our understanding and know-how to help you through whichever family law challenge you face.
