One issue that often arises when Houston area couples are getting ready to divorce involves their living arrangements. Many people find it challenging to be around their partners, let alone live with them. If you are not sure if you and your spouse can and should continue living together before the courts finalize your divorce, you might want to hold off on moving out right away.
How drug abuse impacts custody, visitation and parental rights
If you live in Texas and recently divorced a drug-abusing former spouse, you may have valid concerns about whether your former partner will continue to maintain a presence in your son or daughter’s life. At Laura Dale & Associates, P.C., we have a firm understanding of how parental substance abuse can impact custody, visitation and parental rights, and we have helped many clients who feared for their child’s safety find solutions and peace of mind.
What should you do if you are not married to your child's dad?
If you are a Texas mother who is not married to your child's dad, there are some important steps for you to take to guarantee he has the legal rights of a father. You likely want to secure his right to spend time with your son or daughter. Giving him the opportunity to be there for the child can increase the emotional stability of the little one as he or she grows.
Preparing to resolve a high-conflict divorce
It is not reasonable to expect a Texas divorce to follow any prescribed path, especially when child custody is involved. However, it is possible for spouses and attorneys to prepare for any type of conflict— even when the case involves complicated issues and intense emotional investment.
Do you need a family law attorney?
You may need an expert in family law if you are a Texas resident who is adopting a child, finalizing a divorce, deciding on child custody arrangements or dividing real estate after a breakup. Since state laws have a strong say in matters of marriage and dissolutions of marriages, an experienced attorney can help you wade through the legal processes whether you are tying or loosening the knot.
Helping your child deal with divorce
A married couple who brings their marriage to an end might have to work through any number of complicated issues, from those which are financial in nature (property division, spousal support, etc.) to emotional challenges such as depression or anxiety. However, it is very important for couples who have kids to carefully approach those which involve children, such as child custody. By taking steps to reduce the impact that their divorce may have on their children, parents could be able to not only help kids process the divorce better, but minimize some of the negative consequences that may come with a child's parents splitting up, such as poorer school performance and anger.
What are some same sex couple custody issues?
As you likely know, same-sex couples face some unique legal issues when it comes to child custody. Texas courts are still adjusting to the legalization of same-sex marriage and laws have not quite caught up when it comes to divorce and custody issues. This can lead to sticky situations when courts are trying to decide custody.
Fighting for custody? Don't make these common mistakes
Custody battles can be messy and stir up a lot of emotions. While deciding to split with your partner, it became apparent to you that your soon-to-be-ex is not in a position to handle physical custody of the children. Unfortunately, they disagree and now it's up to a judge to decide how custody should be awarded.
How does child custody work when unmarried parents separate?
When parents separate, whether married or not, the best interest of the children will always be the most important factor when deciding on custody and visitation. Not all splits are amicable, which can make it difficult to come to an agreement. Getting along or finding a way to be civil with your ex, will be the best gift you could ever give your children. Don't put them in the middle of your relationship problems; it's not their fault you & your ex couldn't make it work.
Joint child custody recommended but what about split custody?
One of the most antagonistic issues when a marriage between parents ends, whether it is in Texas or any other state, involves matters concerning the children and who will raise them. While parents typically want what is best for their children, coming to mutual agreements can be tough. In most divorce cases, the courts avoid excluding one parent from child custody except when there is evidence of physical, drug or alcohol abuse by a parent. However, the preferences of parents will be considered by the court. Before parents negotiate child custody, it may help to understand the different options.
