Domestic violence affects families in different ways, but each one can leave a lasting impression in the minds of those who suffer it. Unsurprisingly, bouts of consistent family violence can lead to the filing of divorce papers in an attempt to break free from the cycle. But what can a history of domestic violence do for your divorce case? Look to hire an experienced Texas divorce attorney. One that can provide all the answers to your divorce and family law questions.

How Does Texas Define Domestic Violence?

In Texas, domestic violence is considered an act committed by a family or household member with intent to deal physical bodily harm, bodily injury, assault, or the threat of harm. In this definition, family and household refer to:

• Blood relatives
• Spouse or former spouse
• Parents who share the same child
• Foster children
• Foster parents
• Roommates
• Previous lovers involved in a romantic relationship (“dating relationship”)

Grounds For Divorce

Texas is both a no-fault and at-fault divorce state. Though domestic violence is not specifically named as a grounds for divorce, cruelty is listed. The Texas Family Code may allow anyone who has been mistreated so poorly in their marriage that living together is no longer possible a chance to be granted a divorce. This includes physical, mental, or emotional abuse. You must present evidence to the court that domestic violence has taken place for it to be used as grounds for a divorce. Texas is also a no-fault divorce, so grounds are not technically necessary to file for a divorce. However, domestic violence does have an impact on divorce proceedings.

Custody battles can be exhausting and overwhelming and create a whirlwind of emotions as parents go toe-to-toe with one another over the care of their child. You will want to employ effective strategies to overcome the obstacles ahead. One of the best strategies is to have an experienced family law attorney at your side throughout the proceedings. A skilled lawyer is ready to stand in the trenches alongside you every step of the way.

Uncontested Divorce and Mediation

Nobody wants a nasty custody battle that will dredge up the worst in both parties. It is best to avoid confrontation inside a courtroom, instead opting to figure out beforehand who will handle what regarding your children. Mediation is a terrific option for couples willing to cooperate to benefit their children and themselves. Finding common ground will not only help with the current custody situation but can also help establish co-parenting skills that will benefit everyone involved in the future.

Effective Communication Through Collaborative Law

Communicating effectively is a great way to voice your concerns and needs to the other spouse so that both sides are heard. Maintain an open line of communication with the other parent to demonstrate your willingness to cooperate. Similar to mediation, you and the other parent may have the option to undergo a collaborative divorce where you can decide on what is best for your children together. Collaborative law is not the best option for all couples, especially if there is a history of violence within the family. You could also have additional professionals help with any dispute you might have with the other parent. Something like a child custody evaluator could be invaluable in providing an unbiased assessment of your conservatorship situation.

A traditional divorce can be a lengthy process that is both emotionally and financially draining. Divorcing couples will often look to avoid this avenue toward dissolution and choose mediation as a more appealing alternative. Regardless of which path you decide for your divorce, a skilled and empathetic divorce attorney is a great tool to have on your side.

What is Mediation?

A mediated divorce can cost you more than an uncontested divorce, but it acts as a great middle-ground for couples looking to resolve a few unagreeable issues. Rather than going to trial in a heated contest for who gets what, you and your spouse can agree to meet with a neutral third party in an attempt to resolve things amicably.

Mediation is a great way to build communication skills that may have been lacking in the relationship, and with children involved, mediation can help set a more positive tone for how to parent cooperatively after a divorce. Child custody, child support, and visitation all tend to be hot topics that can bring up disagreements between divorcing couples. Having a mediator trained in these areas can help to alleviate the potential hostility and help a couple look at things from a different angle that may be in the best interests of their children.

Successful co-parenting can take a lot after a nasty divorce. Yet, you must set some things aside and remember that your children are the top priority. To separate your personal issues with your ex-spouse from the duties of co-parenting, some tips can help.

Children of divorce harbor a lot of feelings during and after the process. It is in the parent’s best interests to address these issues head-on and work together to co-parent effectively. Difficulties are sure to present personal challenges along the way. An experienced attorney can offer you advice and support during these times.

Children Come First

The most important and likely obvious tip is always to put your children first when making decisions. Every co-parenting decision you make should be in the child’s best interests. You and your ex-partner must consider your child’s emotional, physical, and psychological needs above your own disputes, preferences, and personal feelings. Never use your child as a pawn in a divorce.

Child support is a critical aspect of family law, and ensuring that children receive the financial support they deserve is a top priority for the Texas legal system. The Texas Legislature, along with Governor Greg Abbott's endorsement, has introduced significant amendments to the Texas Family Code (TFC) in the form of Senate Bills 869 and 870. These changes started on September 1, 2023, and aim to streamline and enhance the child support collection process in Texas.

To further understand the child support changes or any legal matters about child support, it is best to contact an attorney. They can explain the amendments and what they mean for you and your family going forward.

No More Transferring Inheritance to Avoid Overdue Payments

The change to TFC 154.004 prevents individuals with overdue child support payments from transferring their inherited property to someone else to avoid their financial obligations. This means that if someone owes child support and inherits money or property, the inheritance can be used to pay off the debt.