Arlington Divorce Law Firm 
Divorce is a legally complex and emotionally challenging process. At Brandy Austin Law Firm, we work to understand your long-term goals and partner with you to develop a strategy for achieving them. The mediation process allows our clients to meet many of their top concerns. Mediation involves both parties working with a neutral third party to arrive at an agreement instead of leaving the decision to a judge’s ruling. This process allows you to have more of a say in the terms of beginning your new life.
Our Texas divorce mediation attorneys serves Arlington and proximate areas. Attorneys Brandy Austin is a trained mediator. This means she acts as a neutral third party to facilitate the process of mediating a challenge. We also represent clients through the mediation process. If mediation fails to yield a resolution, we can fiercely advocate in court on behalf of your interests.
Tips for Divorce: The Do’s and Don’ts
The legal process for divorce can be confusing, and frankly terrifying for anyone who has never gone through a dissolution of marriage before. Those who need support and more than a few tips regarding their divorce, can consult with the Arlington, TX divorce lawyers at Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC for counsel. We understand that parting ways from a spouse may mean many difficult changes are going to happen for you and your children. Here we have listed a handful of do’s and don’ts for divorce:
Don’t: Rely on Loved Ones for Legal Advice
Loved ones are likely to rush to your side after they find out about the divorce. It is a good idea to create a support system during this time, as divorce is unlikely to be easy even if both spouses agreed it was the right thing to do. Despite loved ones probably having the best of intentions when offering advice, not all divorce cases are the same. When it comes to legal counsel we suggest reaching out to the Arlington, Texas divorce lawyers at Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC.
Do: Be Forthcoming with Your Attorney
It is important that you provide an attorney at Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC with facts about you and your marriage, so he or she can offer thorough guidance. If you keep something from your attorney out of fear of judgement, these facts may end up surfacing anyways. But, by the time your attorney uncovers these details it may be too late to create a legal strategy to keep it from harming your case.
Do: Give Divorce Mediation a Try
Divorce mediation is when both spouses have a meeting with a third party present, to talk about various divorce settlement topics. Points of discussion may include child support, pets, shared debts, property, money, child custody, and spousal support. A mediator is a trained professional that can help guide these difficult conversations, in hopes that a resolution can be made.
When people first hear about mediation, they may abruptly wave off the option due to not wanting to see their spouse in person. In situations where it is unsafe to meet with your spouse directly, an attorney at Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC may discourage attending mediation. However, if your spouse has never abused you or made you feel unsafe, then mediation could be worth a try. If both spouses are open to it, they could save a large chunk of money, time and emotional energy with mediation versus attending court over disputes.
Don’t: Stress Over the Little Things
It can be frightening to imagine the future, especially when there are so many changes happening because of the divorce. However, focusing on the future can help you not dwell on the more trivial conflicts that can arise. During divorce, both spouses may become nitpicky and lose sight of the bigger picture. Spending too much time arguing over the smaller things may cause standstills in the divorce process. An attorney at Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC can help you resolve both the little and bigger things that may become the topic of divorce settlement negotiations.
We would be happy to give you more tips for how to deal with your divorce as painlessly as possible. Please call us today for a free consultation with one of our Arlington, TX divorce lawyers.
How to Divorce an Abusive Partner
Relationships require work and sacrifice. A break up is often considered an unfortunate event. In most divorce cases, you and your partner may have shared fond memories of each other. However, circumstances may change with time and, depending on the changes, a divorce may appear to be the best option. In instances of abuse, it is commonly advised to leave the relationship rather than attempt to change the abusive partner. So, what are the suggested steps used to leave an abusive partner?
Make a Plan
Before you inform your partner that you are filing a divorce, be sure to collect copies of all important documents that pertain to your household – especially finances. This includes banks statements, pay stubs, and bills. Be sure to keep them in a safe place where your partner will not be able to access them.
Contact a Divorce Lawyer
Your Arlington TX divorce lawyer should provide guidance through the process. If your partner is abusive, it will more than likely qualify you to file a fault divorce, which can provide benefits that a no-fault divorce will be unable to provide. When choosing which divorce lawyer is best for your situation, consider asking whether or not the attorneys you contact have experience with domestic violence divorces. There are different steps to filing a fault divorce over a no-fault divorce and an attorney familiar with domestic abuse cases should be familiar with the process.
Separate
Depending on the state and the grounds for the divorce, a separation period may be required for your divorce to begin. Your divorce lawyer will advise you as to what they believe is the best option. It may be possible to file a restraining order against the abusive partner provided you have sufficient evidence. If the judge believes the restraining order should be granted, they may order your partner to leave your home. However, if you do not have sufficient evidence of abuse, your divorce lawyer in Arlington TX may recommend that you leave the home instead.
Knowing how to divorce an abusive partner can be a daunting process. Fear of retaliation is often a factor that will impact the victim’s decision. If you are the victim of an abusive relationship, consider discussing the situation with a divorce lawyer. Although domestic violence is often understood to be addressed in criminal court, charges may be filed through civil court, as well. Every situation is different, therefore, it is critical to provide your divorce lawyer with as much information as possible regarding your case. A divorce lawyer from Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC may provide much-needed guidance through this stressful process.
Child Support Lawyers Serving Arlington And Neighboring Communities
Whether keeping the house or securing child support is your primary concern, we pledge to work to meet your long-term needs. We resolve all components of divorce, including:
- Property division and pension division
- Child custody
- Support payments
- Securing temporary restraining orders
We know the divorce process can feel intimidating, so we encourage you to ask any questions that arise at any point in the process. Each divorce is unique, but if both sides can agree on all matters, we can finalize your divorce in as little as 60 days. We also help clients resolve a range of legal challenges beyond family law issues. Learn about How Can Social Media Affect Your Divorce?
The Fee Agreement
A divorce lawyer may charge you based on a flat rate agreement, by the hour, or per task. Regardless of how their fees are structured, they should be willing to discuss their fees with you before you agree to hiring them. A fee arrangement should be drawn up with a detailed scope of the services you are paying for. Details that should be discussed, and/or included in the agreement include:
- The scope of their services
- Their hourly rate (when applicable)
- Fees for non-attorney work
- The initial deposit
- How and when you will be billed
- Payment options
- A full breakdown of fees
- How a bill is sent
- Who you can talk with in the event of any billing questions
Getting a divorce can be very time consuming and emotionally exhausting. Choosing a trusted divorce firm in Arlington, TX can make a difference in the outcome.
Can a Lawyer Be Overzealous
Yes, you want a zealous lawyer, but you don’t want one that is over-zealous. In other words, the lawyer is pulling strings, and more than they should, to get results not just for the client, but for them. When this happens, the focus might drift more towards the lawyers’ objectives, and words, rather than the case and any evidence related to it. This is most common when there is a significant amount of animosity or resentment involved. If you believe your ex has hired this kind of lawyer, you should not delay in calling a Texas divorce law firm for help.
Average Vs. Great Divorce Lawyers
Let us assume your spouse has hired a divorce lawyer. Perhaps he or she handles many areas of the law. In other words, is a general lawyer. Although general lawyers are good, they might not have ample experience in various issues or challenges that are specific to divorce law. This is something that should be considered and can make a difference between choosing an average lawyer and a great divorce lawyer.
Attention to Detail
As one of the leading divorce law firms in Texas, we have seen cases that were handled by previous lawyers and given little attention to detail. For example, there might have been special challenges in the divorce case; however, the case was treated as standard. This can affect everyone involved in the divorce.
Knowledge of the Law
Divorce laws are always changing. This means a good divorce lawyer will need to keep up with the new changes and amendments. General lawyers might not have time to do this because they handle many areas of the law; for example, divorce, personal injury, estate, and so forth. The more your lawyer knows, the better off you can be guided through the divorce process. In other words, you want your divorce lawyer to be very knowledgeable.
Family Divorce FAQs
Divorce is overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand the legal process and how it affects your family. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions people ask about divorce in Texas. Our goal is to provide straightforward information to help you feel informed and prepared as you move forward. If you have any further questions, we’ll be happy to address them—call or message us today and schedule a free consultation.
What Are The Grounds For Divorce In Texas?
Texas allows both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce. A no-fault divorce is based on the claim that the marriage has become insupportable due to discord, abuse, or conflict. Fault-based grounds include reasons such as adultery, cruelty, abandonment, conviction of a felony, or confinement in a mental institution.
Choosing the appropriate grounds depends on your circumstances and can impact the outcome of certain aspects of your case, such as property division or spousal support.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Divorce In Texas?
The timeline for a Texas divorce varies depending on the specifics of the case. Texas law requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition is filed before the divorce can be finalized.
However, cases involving disputes over custody, property, or other issues may take longer. Working with our Texas family divorce lawyer can help streamline the process by addressing potential delays and resolving disagreements efficiently.
How Is Property Divided In A Texas Divorce?
Texas is a community property state, meaning that most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned. During a divorce, the court divides community property in a manner that is fair and just, which may not always mean a 50/50 split.
Factors such as each spouse’s income, contributions to the marriage, and future financial needs may influence the division. Separate property, such as assets owned before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritance, typically remains with the original owner. If disputes arise, our Texas family divorce lawyer can help protect your rights and advocate for a fair outcome.
Can I Modify A Custody Or Support Order After My Divorce?
Yes, custody and support orders can be modified after a divorce if there is a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons for modifications include changes in income, relocation, or a shift in the child’s needs.
To request a modification, you must file a petition with the court and provide evidence supporting the change. Our Texas family divorce lawyer can guide you through the modification process and help you present a strong case.
What Happens If My Spouse Refuses To Sign Divorce Papers?
If your spouse refuses to sign divorce papers, you can still proceed with the divorce. In Texas, the court can grant a divorce even if one party does not agree, as long as proper legal steps are followed.
This process may involve serving your spouse with legal notice and attending court hearings. While it may take additional time and effort, we can work with you to address these challenges and help you move forward.
At Brandy Austin Law Firm, we understand how important it is to have clear and reliable guidance during a divorce. Our team is committed to helping you protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your family. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a fresh start.
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