If the future of your family is on the line, it’s crucial to work with a Dallas family law lawyer who is familiar not only with the local legal system but also with the processes and people that contribute to it. Whether you are dealing with a custody battle, divorce, or court order modification, the Law Office of Michael P. Granata is eager to support you. We are ready to address your family law challenges with commitment, compassion, and clear communication.
Family Law Matters We Can Support
Considering the diversity of families in the Dallas area, the legal needs vary accordingly. Our firm is proud to offer extensive services that address the dynamic and varying needs of our clients, including support with:
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody (conservatorship)
- Child visitation (possession and access)
- Property division
- Marital agreements
- Domestic violence cases
- Parent rights and paternity
- Modifications and enforcement of court orders
Our legal team has extensive experience filing petitions, meeting local protocols, and collaborating with the Dallas County Family District Courts effectively. Let us apply our knowledge and experience to your case.
Serving Dallas Families in Transition
According to data from the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population of Dallas city for 2024 was over 1.3 million people, or 528,000 households. It is one of the quickest-growing and most diverse areas of the country. With an average household size of 2.43 people, Dallas is home to a wide array of family structures, from multi-generational homes to single-parent households to traditional nuclear families.
Trusted Counsel in Divorce, Custody, and Support Matters
One of the most financially and emotionally taxing events an individual can go through is divorce. Divorce cases in Dallas are required to comply with the Texas Family Code but have varying outcomes depending on the judge, county, and specific case details.
When it comes to splitting assets during divorce, courts make decisions based on Texas community property laws. This means that the majority of assets obtained during a marriage are split down the middle unless it is determined that an unequal distribution would be more fair.
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If children are involved in the divorce, courts will consider the “best interest of the child” standard based on factors like the involvement of each parent in the child’s life, the preference of the child if they are old enough, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable upbringing.
For child custody and support issues, our firm works proactively to push for optimal outcomes by helping parents understand their rights and options—such as state guidelines for child support payments and Standard Possession Order rules.
Modification, Enforcement, and Domestic Violence Protection
The only certainty in life is change. Parents may be relocated for work, get a promotion, or face emerging challenges that could impact child support or custody arrangements. We work to support clients with modifying existing court orders and advocate for enforcement if the other party is not adequately complying.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, we can also help you take concrete legal steps to secure your immediate safety and build your family’s future free from fear. From filing protective orders to fighting for the custody of your child, we can help you do what it takes to stay safe.
FAQs
Q: How Do Courts in Dallas Decide Which Parent Gets Custody?
A: Courts in Dallas County decide which parent gets custody by considering the “best interests of the child” standard. Judges may take into account factors like the involvement of each parent in the life of the child, the ability of each parent to establish stability at home, the emotional and physical needs of the child, and whether there is a history of abuse or neglect.
Q: What if Income Is Irregular or the Paying Parent Is Unemployed for Child Support Calculations?
A: In cases where the paying parent has an inconsistent income, such as those working from gig to gig or contractors, Dallas courts may choose to average the earnings over a specific period to determine a support amount that is fair. If the paying parent is underemployed or unemployed, the courts will usually estimate an income based on the federal minimum wage for a 40-hour work week.
Q: How Long Does a Divorce Take in Dallas County?
A: A divorce in Dallas County can vary in duration depending on specific factors of the divorce, such as the length of the marriage, whether there are children involved, whether there are complex assets, and the willingness of each party to cooperate. There is a mandatory 60-day waiting period after filing for divorce. A family law attorney can estimate how long your divorce may take based on your circumstances.
Q: How Is Property Divided in a Divorce in Texas?
A: Property in a Texas divorce is divided by the courts according to community property laws. This means that all property and debts acquired by either spouse during the marriage are typically divided in half.
There are, however, exceptions, with the division being adjusted based on considerations like who was at fault for the split, who has custody of any children involved, and the earning capacity of each party. A marital agreement can change how property gets divided.
Q: Can I Modify a Child Custody or Support Order in Dallas?
A: Yes, you can modify a child custody or support order in Dallas if your circumstances have significantly changed. For example, if you have lost your job, are being relocated by your company, or your child has developed a disability, you can request that your existing custody or support order be modified through the Dallas County courts.
Contact a Dallas Family Law Lawyer
At the Law Office of Michael P. Granata, our empathetic team of family law attorneys understands that no two cases are the same. Therefore, we work to connect with all of our clients on a personal level—striving to deeply understand their needs, challenges, dynamics, and goals. Call 214-977-9050 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with a compassionate Dallas family law lawyer.
