Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Family Law
Navigating family law issues—particularly in matters that affect the well-being of children—is challenging. It requires empathy, strategic foresight, and in-depth legal knowledge. Family law cases can be contentious, so hiring a family law attorney in Houston is wise. You need an objective legal advocate to help you make rational decisions to protect your family. The …
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Divorce, Family Law, Mediation
We have all heard horror stories about how a divorce can turn into a nasty, difficult, and emotionally draining fight. The good news is that divorce does not have to be that way. Indeed, the vast majority of people want an amicable divorce. Mediation is one of the best legal options for divorcing couples looking …
Continue reading "Overcoming an Impasse in Divorce Mediation in Texas"
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Divorce, Family Law
While spousal support and issues related to minor children may not come up in every Texas divorce, almost all parties must address property division when dissolving their marriage. Couples may acquire substantial assets after the wedding date, especially in long-term marriages. They might also incur considerable debt through loans, mortgages, and credit cards. Both property …
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Family Law
Child custody court orders are final and legally binding. Fortunately, that does not mean that these orders cannot be modified. If you can show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances and convince a judge of that fact, you may be able to modify your child custody order. However, there are certain requirements …
Continue reading "When Can You Modify Child Custody in Houston?"
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Family Law, Spousal Maintenance
Following a divorce, the financially-better-off party may be required to make ongoing payments to their former spouse. Known as alimony, spousal support, or spousal maintenance, these payments are not guaranteed in Texas. Spousal maintenance is subject to strict rules and regulations in our state. Under Texas law (Texas Family Code § 8.056), a person’s obligation …
Continue reading "Your Comprehensive Guide to Spousal Maintenance and Cohabitation in Texas"
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Divorce, Family Law
When going through a divorce, you will have many concerns. One of the biggest problems may be whether you will be able to remain in your home. The marital home is often the highest-valued asset a couple owns. It also holds a lot of sentimental value, particularly if the couple purchased the home together and …
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Adoption, Family Law
Adopting a child is a blessing for the entire family. If you are considering adoption, or are about to start the process, you likely want to expand your family as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, adoption does not happen overnight. Additionally, it is very difficult to determine how long any one case may take because the …
Continue reading "How Long is the Adoption Process in Texas?"
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Divorce, Family Law
Spousal maintenance, known as alimony in other states, is not guaranteed in all Texas divorces. However, when one spouse will be left unable to financially support themselves during or after the divorce process, a judge may order it. Couples can also reach an agreement on their own about whether spousal maintenance should be paid, the …
Continue reading "The Three Types of Spousal Support in Texas"
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Family Law
You might not appreciate the expansive nature of Texas family law concepts until you realize that the relevant concepts encompass many of your closest, most personal relationships. Some scenarios involve joyful occasions and meeting the legal requirements for marriage or welcoming a new member of the family. Others are less cheerful, but it is still …
Posted by Mary E. Ramos | Family Law
What is a DNA Paternity Test? In Texas, when parents are unmarried, establishing paternity and determining parental rights and responsibilities for minor children follows a different process compared to married couples. The child’s parentage is not presumed when the parents are not officially married. To establish paternity, parents can execute an Acknowledgement of Paternity if …
