When Child Protective Services (CPS) begins an investigation, one of the first concerns many Texas parents have is whether a CPS investigator can enter their home without a warrant. The short answer is that CPS does not automatically have the right to enter your home simply because an abuse or neglect report has been made….
Family-law matters can affect some of the most important parts of your life, including your marriage, relationship with your children, finances, and living arrangements. While some legal matters can be resolved through agreement, others become complicated when spouses or parents disagree about important issues. If you are facing a divorce, child support dispute, custody matter,…
Deciding when to hire a divorce lawyer can be one of the most important decisions you make during a divorce. While some Texas divorces may be relatively straightforward, others involve disputes over children, property, finances, support, or family violence that can make the legal process considerably more complicated. If you are considering divorce in Dallas,…
When a parent is being denied time with their child, the situation can be emotionally difficult and legally complicated. In Texas, whether you can take legal action depends largely on whether there is already a court order establishing your rights to possession and access. Texas family courts generally refer to “custody” and “visitation” using the…
A Child Protective Services (CPS) case can significantly affect a child custody matter in Houston, Texas. When the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect, the investigation may overlap with issues involving conservatorship, possession and access, and the child’s safety. A CPS investigation does not automatically mean…
Domestic violence can have a significant impact on a child custody case in Texas. When a court determines conservatorship, possession, and access, the safety and well-being of the child are important considerations. Evidence of family violence may affect how parental rights are structured, including whether possession should be supervised or whether restrictions on contact are…
Filing for divorce is a significant legal step that can affect your property, finances, parental rights, and future obligations. For spouses living in Austin, the divorce process is governed primarily by Texas law, while certain local procedures and court requirements apply in Travis County. Understanding the process before filing can help you make informed decisions,…
Failing to pay child support in Texas can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. If a parent falls behind on payments, the unpaid amount generally becomes child support arrears, and the Texas child support system has several enforcement tools available to collect the debt. If you are struggling to make payments, losing your job,…
Filing for divorce is a significant legal and personal step, and being organized from the start can save you time, stress, and money. Whether your divorce is amicable or contested, this checklist will help you understand what to gather and consider before filing your Original Petition for Divorce in Texas. 1. Confirm You Meet Texas…
When parents separate or go through a divorce, one of the most important concerns is determining where their child will live and how parenting responsibilities will be shared. In some situations, a parent may believe that having the other parent involved in the child’s life is not in the child’s best interests and may want…