Family Law FAQs
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What should I know before filing for divorce when significant assets are involved?
Divorcing with substantial assets requires a strategic approach to property division, business valuation, tax consequences, and potential hidden assets. It’s important to work with an attorney experienced in complex financial disclosures and high-net-worth settlements.
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How are businesses, professional practices, or investment portfolios divided in a Texas divorce?
Texas is a community property state, but characterization of business interests and investments can be nuanced. We work with forensic accountants and valuation experts to ensure accurate assessments and equitable distribution.
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Can I protect my inheritance or separate property during a divorce?
Yes—inheritances and gifts are typically separate property, but you must preserve documentation and avoid commingling. We help clients trace and protect these assets from being included in marital division.
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How does a high-income affect child support or spousal maintenance in Texas?
Child support guidelines apply up to a certain income cap, but courts may order more if justified. Spousal maintenance is not guaranteed and is based on need, duration of marriage, and earning capacity. We build strong cases tailored to your financial profile.
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What should I do if I suspect my spouse is hiding assets?
We utilize forensic financial experts, subpoenas, and discovery tools to uncover undisclosed income or assets. Concealing assets in a divorce is unlawful and can lead to serious legal consequences.
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We utilize forensic financial experts, subpoenas, and discovery tools to uncover undisclosed income or assets. Concealing assets in a divorce is unlawful and can lead to serious legal consequences.
Custody (called “conservatorship” in Texas) is decided based on the best interest of the child. Courts consider factors like each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s emotional and physical needs, and any history of family violence or instability.
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What’s the difference between joint managing conservatorship and sole managing conservatorship?
DescriptioIn joint managing conservatorship, both parents share decision-making rights. Sole managing conservatorship gives one parent the exclusive right to make major decisions about the child’s welfare. Courts usually favor joint conservatorship unless there are strong reasons to limit one parent’s rights.n goes here
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Who gets to decide where the child lives?
If parents are joint managing conservators, one may be granted the exclusive right to designate the child’s primary residence. Courts may also place geographic restrictions on where the child can live (such as within a specific county or area).
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At what age can my child choose which parent to live with?
Texas law allows a judge to consider the preference of a child 12 or older, but it is just one factor. The court is not required to follow the child’s wishes if it determines another arrangement is in the child’s best interest.
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How can I modify an existing custody order?
You can request a modification if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order, or if the current arrangement no longer serves the child’s best interests.
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What if the other parent isn’t following the custody order?
You can file a motion to enforce the order. Courts may impose penalties for non-compliance, including contempt, fines, or changes to custody if violations are serious or repeated.
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Can I prevent the other parent from moving away with the child?
Yes. Many Texas custody orders include geographic restrictions. If the other parent wants to move, they must get court approval or reach a new agreement with you. You can contest the relocation if it affects your ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child.
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What role does a child custody evaluation or guardian ad litem play?
In high-conflict cases, the court may appoint a custody evaluator or guardian ad litem to investigate and make recommendations about what is best for the child. These professionals gather evidence, interview parties, and may testify in court.
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Can I get temporary custody while the case is pending?
Yes. You can request a temporary orders hearing early in the process to establish interim custody, visitation, and support arrangements until a final order is issued.
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How can your firm help me in a custody battle?
We bring calm, strength, and legal precision to high-conflict custody cases. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we prioritize your child’s well-being while protecting your parental rights every step of the way.