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The Power of Hiring a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist in Texas

 Posted on March 11, 2024 in Family Law

Tarrant County, TX board certified family lawyerWhen it comes to navigating the intricate and emotionally charged landscape of family law in Texas, having a skilled and experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Whether it be for a Texas divorce or another matter, hiring a family law attorney who is board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, such as Daniel R. Bacalis, P.C., can give clients a significant edge during legal proceedings. Board certification signifies a lawyer's knowledge and skill in family law, providing clients with confidence and assurance in their legal representation.

Enhanced Knowledge of the Family Law Process in Texas

Board certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization requires attorneys to undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including peer review, continuing legal education, and a comprehensive examination focused on family law. This process ensures that board-certified family law attorneys deeply understand the complexities and nuances of family law matters, giving them a unique advantage when representing clients in court. Their specialized knowledge allows them to navigate family law's complexities precisely. 

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How Alimony is Awarded in Texas

 Posted on February 28, 2024 in Divorce

Hurst, TX alimony lawyerAlimony, or “spousal maintenance,” is less commonly awarded in the state of Texas now than it has been in previous decades. Texas offers only two types of spousal maintenance – court-ordered and contractual – both of which can be difficult to have approved by a judge if the paying spouse does not agree. It is important to understand both types of spousal maintenance, the factors that go into determining it, and how payments are calculated. An experienced attorney can go over the finer details of spousal maintenance and what you can expect during divorce proceedings.

What is Spousal Maintenance?

Spousal maintenance is the court-ordered version of Texas alimony. A judge must consider many factors before determining whether or not it is appropriate after a divorce. Some of the factors a judge may consider include:

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How To Establish Paternity in Texas

 Posted on February 07, 2024 in Family Law

Blog ImagePaternity is an incredibly important issue that must be addressed if an alleged father legally wants to have anything to do with his offspring. However, not everyone knows what is required to determine paternity. In some cases, paternity is already assumed, whereas in others it will take a little bit more work to establish paternity. Discuss your options with an attorney to figure out what you will need to do to move forward with establishing paternity.

Paternity For Married and Unmarried Parents

When parents are married, the father is presumed to be the legal father of the child. This is considered paternity presumption and does not require anything further from either parent in establishing paternity. Unwed fathers are not automatically recognized as biological fathers. Legal steps must be taken to establish paternity, which can be done in a few ways.

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Reasons To Change a Texas Court Order

 Posted on January 31, 2024 in Family Law

Hurst ,TX divorce modification lawyerDivorce cases concern multiple matters that are all finalized with court orders, regardless if done through mediation or litigation. These matters can include spousal maintenance, child conservatorship and placement, and property division. Sometimes things happen after a court order is entered that may warrant a modification to one of these orders. Modifications to court order decrees in Texas require ex-spouses to mutually agree on changes, a substantial change to a child or parent’s circumstances, or, regarding child support, a substantial change in child support guidelines. For help with the divorce process, be sure to speak to an experienced attorney.

Mutual Agreement

Relationships that remain amicable after a divorce can make it easier to modify court orders. Maintaining good communication, an open mind, and the willingness to compromise can allow both parties to come to a better understanding of each other’s needs long after the divorce is finalized. If both parties agree on modifying a court order, they can do so by filing a petition with the court. The court will confirm or deny the modification request depending on the circumstances surrounding the change.

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How Texas Divides Marital Assets in a Divorce

 Posted on January 12, 2024 in Divorce

Blog ImageDivorcing couples have multiple issues to deal with throughout the divorce process. Chief among them are child custody, alimony, and asset division. Texas is a community property state and divides assets accordingly. Only community property is divisible in a Texas asset division and distribution trial. So what exactly is community property? An experienced divorce attorney can answer any questions regarding divorce issues and provide guidance on what steps to take throughout the entire process.

Community Property vs Equitable Distribution vs Separate Property

As stated, Texas is a community property state. Community property is all property acquired during a marriage that is subject to division in the event of a divorce. The marital estate is divided 50/50 down the line unless a premarital agreement has been established or a judge feels a different split is deemed more “just and right,” which can address both property and debt.

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The Steps To Legally Adopt A Stepchild in Texas

 Posted on December 28, 2023 in Family Law

Tarrant County, TX stepchild adoption attorneyAdopting a stepchild is a major decision and a big step toward an incredibly rewarding future. Taking on a child who is not of your own blood is one of the most selfless things a person can do. You are proving your love for not only the biological parent, but of their child as well. The legal process for adoption is not as straightforward as you might hope, however. For what to expect on this journey, it would be wise to consult an attorney who has some experience in Texas adoption cases.

The Most Important Elements of Stepchild Adoption

There are many criteria for adopting a stepchild but the most important ones fall under marriage, residency, and consent. These criteria must be met to achieve your dream of stepchild adoption.

You must be married to the stepchild's legal parent. You must also reside with the child for at least six months before you can file for adoption. This is Texas law and doing so will show that you are capable of providing care and support for the child. It also serves to establish a bond between you and the child.

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Resolving Child Custody Disputes in Texas

 Posted on December 12, 2023 in Child custody

Hurst, TX divorce lawyer

For both divorcing parents and unwed parents living in separate households, child conservatorship can be a critical issue that often gives rise to disputes. Having to split possession can be a difficult reality for any parent. Some parents are unable to agree to a parenting plan on their own, which makes relying on outside parties, such as a judge or mediator, necessary.  A Texas child custody lawyer is a great source for discussing the different ways that parents can potentially resolve disagreements and other issues involving child conservatorship and possession.

Just The Two of Us 

Parents willing to cooperate have the potential to resolve conservatorship and possession disputes on their own. It may still be prudent to appoint and consult an experienced attorney so that both parents fully understand their legal rights when it comes to their children.

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How Domestic Violence Affects a Texas Divorce Case

 Posted on November 28, 2023 in Divorce

Tarrant County divorce lawyerDomestic 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:

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Tips To Help Navigate Texas Custody and Conservatorship Disputes

 Posted on November 09, 2023 in Child custody

Tarrant County family lawyerCustody 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.

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The Role of Mediation in Divorce Texas Proceedings

 Posted on October 25, 2023 in Divorce

Tarrant County divorce lawyerA 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.

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