The Griffin Firm provides family law services for divorce, child custody, child support, enforcement, grandparents' rights, adoptions, prenuptial agreements, wills, QDROs, mediation, and more in Keller, TX and the surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Griffin Firm - Keller /Alliance Attorney
I am getting divorced. Do I need an attorney?
It is possible to represent yourself in family court and obtain a divorce. However, without legal guidance through the process, you may unknowingly forfeit your legal rights and agree to terms that you should not agree to. For example, some spouses may be unaware of the property they are entitled to in a divorce, or they may be unaware of what a reasonable child custody arrangement looks like. Without an attorney, these spouses may agree to terms that hurt them in the long run. It is best to hire an attorney as soon as you begin considering divorce or as soon as you are served with divorce papers.
Is Texas a 50 50 community property state?
Texas is one of nine states that is a community property jurisdiction. In general, this means that any property acquired by a couple during their marriage (with a few exceptions) is equally owned by both spouses.
Who determines how assets are divided in a divorce?
If you and your spouse cannot agree on how to split your property and debt, a judge will divide your community property and debt in a way that the judge decides is “just and right" in a final hearing
How do courts determine who gets custody of children in a divorce?
Under Texas law, the court is required to make child custody decisions based on what is in the best interest of the child. The courts encourage parents to try and come to agreements using mediation first. In some cases, a judge may order a custody evaluation to determine the best situation for a child.
What is joint custody?
Joint custody allows both parents to make important decisions about their children, but does not account for parenting time. Usually, one parent will be given physical custody of the children while the other is given visitation rights.
How is child support determined in a divorce or child support case?
Under the Texas Family Code guidelines, the obligor's child support is calculated as follows: For 1 child, 20% of their monthly net resources. For 2 children, 25% of their monthly net resources. For 3 children, 30% of their monthly net resources.
What happens if a parent does not pay court-ordered child support?
If the judge finds that you purposely failed to pay child support, you could be found in contempt of court for violating a court order and sentenced to up to six months in jail. In Texas, you can also be arrested for failing to pay child support.
Can My Spouse And I Agree That Neither Party Will Pay Child Support?
From time to time, parents will ask if they can agree to no child support in Texas. In other words, both parties would like child support to be waived so that no one is required to pay. The simple answer to this question is: it's possible, but only if the agreement is approved by a judge.
Do I need an attorney if I am getting divorced?
You can represent yourself in family court, but without legal guidance, you may forfeit rights or agree to unfavorable terms. It is best to hire an attorney when considering divorce or after being served papers.
Is Texas a community property state for divorce?
Yes, Texas is a community property state, meaning property acquired during marriage is usually owned equally by both spouses.
How are assets divided if spouses cannot agree during a divorce?
A judge will divide community property and debt in a way they find “just and right” during a final hearing if spouses cannot agree.
How do Texas courts decide child custody in a divorce?
Courts base custody decisions on the best interest of the child, encouraging mediation and sometimes ordering custody evaluations.
What is joint custody in Texas?
Joint custody allows both parents to make important decisions, but typically one parent has physical custody while the other has visitation rights.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
Child support is based on the obligor’s monthly net resources: 20% for one child, 25% for two, and 30% for three children.
What are the consequences of not paying court-ordered child support in Texas?
Failure to pay can lead to contempt of court, up to six months in jail, and possible arrest.
Can spouses agree to waive child support in Texas?
They can agree, but only if a judge approves the agreement.
What nearby medical services are available near The Griffin Firm in Keller, TX?
Nearby medical services include Dr. Rami Turner, DO, Aspira Home Health, Devoted Family Medicine, and Alliance Orthotics and Prosthetics, which can be helpful for clients seeking related health support.
What nearby counseling and mental health resources are close to The Griffin Firm?
Clients can find counseling resources like Open Doors Life Center, Redefine, Therapy Sync, and Diana Bigham LMFT - Family Consultant nearby for additional family or marriage support.
Are there nearby restaurants or places to visit around The Griffin Firm in Keller, TX?
Yes, clients visiting The Griffin Firm can enjoy nearby restaurants like Baja Cantina, Funky Baja's Cantina, and i Fratelli Pizza for dining before or after appointments.