Law Office of Michael P. Granata http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/ Recent Posts en-us Fri, 06 Dec 2024 23:46:45 -0500 La'Tiejira vs. Cribb http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/latiejira-vs-cribb/ 2024-11-19 12:33:55 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/latiejira-vs-cribb/ Venue Case http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/venue-case/ 2024-11-15 10:47:22 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/venue-case/ Attorney's Fees Award http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/attorneys-fees-award3/ 2024-11-07 12:27:55 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/attorneys-fees-award3/ Claims for Reimbursement http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/claims-for-reimbursement/ 2024-10-16 15:34:19 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/claims-for-reimbursement/ Texas Standard Possession Order http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-standard-possession-order/ 2024-10-08 15:33:57 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-standard-possession-order/ Adapting Your Parenting Plan for the Holidays http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/adapting-your-parenting-plan-for-the-holidays/ 2020-11-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/adapting-your-parenting-plan-for-the-holidays/ How to Change Your Name Legally in Dallas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-to-change-your-name-legally-in-dallas/ Whether you want to change your name to celebrate a new marriage or your divorce, have always hated your name and have decided to do something about it, or want to change your children’s last names to your own instead of their father’s, completing a name change in the state of Texas can be complicated. Aside from a lengthy amount of paperwork and several court appearances, the process can take a lot of time and money if not carried out with one of our experienced Dallas name change lawyers. Because they have significant experience handling name changes for several clients, they can ensure that the process goes smoothly and is handled quickly and discreetly.

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2020-11-16 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-to-change-your-name-legally-in-dallas/
Getting a Collaborative Divorce in Dallas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/getting-a-collaborative-divorce-in-dallas/ 2020-10-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/getting-a-collaborative-divorce-in-dallas/ Understanding Conservatorship in Child Custody Cases in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-conservatorship-in-child-custody-cases-in-texas/ 2020-10-16 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-conservatorship-in-child-custody-cases-in-texas/ What You Need to Know About Getting a Divorce in Dallas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-getting-a-divorce-in-dallas/ 2020-09-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-getting-a-divorce-in-dallas/ Tips for Negotiating and Paying Child Support in Dallas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/tips-for-negotiating-and-paying-child-support-in-dallas/ 2020-08-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/tips-for-negotiating-and-paying-child-support-in-dallas/ Five Unique Aspects of a Getting Divorced in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/five-unique-aspects-of-a-getting-divorced-in-texas/ 2020-07-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/five-unique-aspects-of-a-getting-divorced-in-texas/ How Long Will It Take to Get a Divorce in Texas? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-get-a-divorce-in-texas2/ 2020-06-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-get-a-divorce-in-texas2/ The Best Interest of the Child: Creating an Appropriate Parenting Plan in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-best-interest-of-the-child-creating-an-appropriate-parenting-plan-in-texas/ 2020-05-29 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-best-interest-of-the-child-creating-an-appropriate-parenting-plan-in-texas/ Information That Your Dallas Divorce Attorney Needs to Properly Assist You With Your Case http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/information-that-your-dallas-divorce-attorney-needs-to-properly-assist-you-with-your-case/ 2020-04-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/information-that-your-dallas-divorce-attorney-needs-to-properly-assist-you-with-your-case/ Surviving the Period Before Finalization of Divorce in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/surviving-the-period-before-finalization-of-divorce-in-texas/ 2020-03-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/surviving-the-period-before-finalization-of-divorce-in-texas/ Ending Child Support Payments Requires a Legal Process in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/ending-child-support-payments-requires-a-legal-process-in-texas/ 2020-02-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/ending-child-support-payments-requires-a-legal-process-in-texas/ Taking Cues From the Holidays for Your Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/taking-cues-from-the-holidays-for-your-divorce/ 2020-01-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/taking-cues-from-the-holidays-for-your-divorce/ Impact of New Tax Code on Texas Divorces http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/impact-of-new-tax-code-on-texas-divorces/ 2019-10-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/impact-of-new-tax-code-on-texas-divorces/ Tips for Avoiding Parenting Disputes After Your Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/tips-for-avoiding-parenting-disputes-after-your-divorce/ 2019-09-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/tips-for-avoiding-parenting-disputes-after-your-divorce/ Drug Abuse and Divorce in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/drug-abuse-and-divorce-in-texas/ 2019-05-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/drug-abuse-and-divorce-in-texas/ Can You Claim Common Law Marriage in Texas? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/can-you-claim-common-law-marriage-in-texas/ 2019-05-17 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/can-you-claim-common-law-marriage-in-texas/ How to Get a Divorce When Your Spouse Has Gone Missing http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-to-get-a-divorce-when-your-spouse-has-gone-missing/ 2019-04-16 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-to-get-a-divorce-when-your-spouse-has-gone-missing/ Helping Children Adjust to Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/helping-children-adjust-to-divorce/ 2019-03-29 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/helping-children-adjust-to-divorce/ Understanding Private Adoptions in Dallas, Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-private-adoptions-in-dallas-texas/ 2019-03-15 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-private-adoptions-in-dallas-texas/ What You Need to Know About Modifying Child Support http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-modifying-child-support/ 2019-02-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-modifying-child-support/ Paternity Rights and Obligations: What Every Texas Father Needs to Know http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/paternity-rights-and-obligations-what-every-texas-father-needs-to-know/ Paternal rights and obligations in the Lone Star State are a matter of Texas law. And understanding those rights and obligations goes a long way in determining issues like whether or not you are on the hook for child support or whether you must provide consent before your son or daughter can be adopted.

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2019-02-14 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/paternity-rights-and-obligations-what-every-texas-father-needs-to-know/
Getting Your Marriage Annulled in Texas: What You Need to Know http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/getting-your-marriage-annulled-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know/ 2019-01-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/getting-your-marriage-annulled-in-texas-what-you-need-to-know/ When Violence is an Issue: What You Need to Know About Obtaining a Protective Order in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-violence-is-an-issue-what-you-need-to-know-about-obtaining-a-protective-order-in-texas/ 2019-01-18 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-violence-is-an-issue-what-you-need-to-know-about-obtaining-a-protective-order-in-texas/ Do the Kids Get to Choose Which Parent to Live With? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/do-the-kids-get-to-choose-which-parent-to-live-with/ 2018-12-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/do-the-kids-get-to-choose-which-parent-to-live-with/ My Spouse Accumulated a Lot of Debt. Am I Responsible For It if We Get Divorced? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/my-spouse-accumulated-a-lot-of-debt-am-i-responsible-for-it-if-we-get-divorced/ 2018-12-14 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/my-spouse-accumulated-a-lot-of-debt-am-i-responsible-for-it-if-we-get-divorced/ When Is a Prenup a Good Idea? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-is-a-prenup-a-good-idea/ 2018-11-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-is-a-prenup-a-good-idea/ Legal Separation in Texas http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/legal-separation-in-texas/ 2018-11-09 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/legal-separation-in-texas/ Can I Get My Child Custody Arrangement Modified? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/can-i-get-my-child-custody-arrangement-modified/ 2018-10-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/can-i-get-my-child-custody-arrangement-modified/ Divorce and the Family Pets: Who Gets the Fur Babies? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/divorce-and-the-family-pets-who-gets-the-fur-babies/ 2018-09-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/divorce-and-the-family-pets-who-gets-the-fur-babies/ Five Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Divorce Attorney http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/five-questions-to-ask-before-hiring-a-divorce-attorney/ 2018-09-14 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/five-questions-to-ask-before-hiring-a-divorce-attorney/ Divorce: What Small Business Owners Need to Know http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/divorce-what-small-business-owners-need-to-know/ 2018-08-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/divorce-what-small-business-owners-need-to-know/ How Does Divorce Affect Your Taxes? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-does-divorce-affect-your-taxes/ 2018-08-17 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-does-divorce-affect-your-taxes/ When is Joint Custody Appropriate? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-is-joint-custody-appropriate/ 2018-07-31 21:57:24 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/when-is-joint-custody-appropriate/ Who Can Claim the Kids as Dependents After the Divorce? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/who-can-claim-the-kids-as-dependents-after-the-divorce/ 2018-07-17 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/who-can-claim-the-kids-as-dependents-after-the-divorce/ Separate vs. Marital Property http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/separate-vs-marital-property/ 2018-06-29 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/separate-vs-marital-property/ Child Custody Issues: Parental Relocation http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/child-custody-issues-parental-relocation/ 2018-06-15 10:29:14 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/child-custody-issues-parental-relocation/ Reducing Your Divorce Costs http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/reducing-your-divorce-costs/ 2018-05-31 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/reducing-your-divorce-costs/ Hiding Assets: What Happens When One Spouse Isn't Honest? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/hiding-assets-what-happens-when-one-spouse-isn-t-honest/ 2018-05-25 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/hiding-assets-what-happens-when-one-spouse-isn-t-honest/ Prenuptial Agreements: Can You Waive Spousal Support in a Prenup? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/prenuptial-agreements-can-you-waive-spousal-support-in-a-prenup/ 2018-04-27 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/prenuptial-agreements-can-you-waive-spousal-support-in-a-prenup/ Changing Your Name After a Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/changing-your-name-after-a-divorce/ 2018-04-13 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/changing-your-name-after-a-divorce/ Key Factors to Consider in Stepparent Adoptions http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/key-factors-to-consider-in-stepparent-adoptions/ 2018-03-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/key-factors-to-consider-in-stepparent-adoptions/ Community Property: How Does it Impact Your Divorce? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/community-property-how-does-it-impact-your-divorce/ 2018-03-16 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/community-property-how-does-it-impact-your-divorce/ Bird's Nest Custody Arrangements: What Are They? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/bird-s-nest-custody-arrangements-what-are-they/ 2018-02-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/bird-s-nest-custody-arrangements-what-are-they/ How Tax Reform Changed Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-tax-reform-changed-divorce/ 2018-02-14 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-tax-reform-changed-divorce/ Challenging Paternity in Texas Courts http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/challenging-paternity-in-texas-courts/ Fatherhood is an honor and a joy. However, if the child is not yours, paternity creates an unfair, burdensome obligation to pay child support. What should you do if you are named as the father of a child you don’t believe is yours?

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2018-01-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/challenging-paternity-in-texas-courts/
Advantages of Divorce Mediation http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/advantages-of-divorce-mediation/ 2017-12-29 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/advantages-of-divorce-mediation/ How Long Will It Take to Get a Divorce In Texas? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-get-a-divorce-in-texas/ 2017-11-30 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-get-a-divorce-in-texas/ How Long Can My Children Receive Child Support? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-can-my-children-receive-child-support/ 2017-10-13 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-long-can-my-children-receive-child-support/ Are There Advantages to Common Law Versus Traditional Marriage in TX? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/are-there-advantages-to-common-law-versus-traditional-marriage-in-tx/ 2017-09-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/are-there-advantages-to-common-law-versus-traditional-marriage-in-tx/ Not All Family Law Issues Need to Go to Court http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/not-all-family-law-issues-need-to-go-to-court/ 2017-08-25 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/not-all-family-law-issues-need-to-go-to-court/ Sealed TX Adoption Records Don’t Always Prevent Access to Vital Info http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/sealed-tx-adoption-records-don-t-always-prevent-access-to-vital-info/ 2017-07-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/sealed-tx-adoption-records-don-t-always-prevent-access-to-vital-info/ How Much Weight Do Texas Courts Place on Custody Wishes of the Children? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-much-weight-do-texas-courts-place-on-custody-wishes-of-the-children/ 2017-06-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/how-much-weight-do-texas-courts-place-on-custody-wishes-of-the-children/ Proposed Bill Would Make Divorce More Difficult and Expensive http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/proposed-bill-would-make-divorce-more-difficult-and-expensive/ 2017-05-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/proposed-bill-would-make-divorce-more-difficult-and-expensive/ Grandparents Can Take Legal Action to Gain Access to the Children of Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/grandparents-can-take-legal-action-to-gain-access-to-the-children-of-divorce/ 2017-04-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/grandparents-can-take-legal-action-to-gain-access-to-the-children-of-divorce/ Dissolving Common Law Marriage is Still Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dissolving-common-law-marriage-is-still-divorce/ 2017-03-29 21:04:04 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dissolving-common-law-marriage-is-still-divorce/ What Does Joint Custody Really Mean? http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-does-joint-custody-really-mean/ 2017-02-13 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/what-does-joint-custody-really-mean/ Spousal Support May Require Preparation for Independence During the Divorce Process http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/spousal-support-may-require-preparation-for-independence-during-the-divorce-process/ Not all parties of divorce are financially prepared to live on their own once the court signs the Final Decree of Divorce. However, according to the Texas Family Code, receipt of spousal maintenance (also known as spousal support and alimony) is not guaranteed in a Texas divorce.

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2017-01-26 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/spousal-support-may-require-preparation-for-independence-during-the-divorce-process/
Advanced Preparation Makes Adult Name Changes Easier http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/advanced-preparation-makes-adult-name-changes-easier/ An adult name may not be unique like a Social Security number, but it is still attached to a wide array of legal relationships. Assuming that the reasons for changing a name (such as returning to one’s original name after a divorce) are valid and legal, the process is relatively straightforward, as described in Subchapter B of 45.101 – 45.103 of the Texas Family Code. However, once your name changes, things can become complex in a hurry.

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2017-01-12 06:13:59 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/advanced-preparation-makes-adult-name-changes-easier/
Children May Need Their Own Attorneys in Certain Family Law Issues http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/children-may-need-their-own-attorneys-in-certain-family-law-issues/ By law, any legal decisions involving children must first and foremost serve their best interests. Particularly in divorce cases, both parents retain their own attorneys and they generally negotiate the custody and visitation terms for their children, subject to court approval. However, there are times when children need some form of legal assistance that focuses solely on them.

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2016-12-22 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/children-may-need-their-own-attorneys-in-certain-family-law-issues/
High Net Worth Divorce Does Not Have to Be High Stress http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/high-net-worth-divorce-does-not-have-to-be-high-stress/ Significant conflict within a relationship leads to just about every divorce and that conflict naturally flows through the actual divorce process as well. Even after many years of marriage, the underlying issues can range from anything from general incompatibility to financial concerns, regardless of the degree of wealth. However, agreeing to a divorce settlement is often more challenging when complex financial issues come into play.

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2016-12-08 16:42:13 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/high-net-worth-divorce-does-not-have-to-be-high-stress/
Establishing Paternity Resolves an Array of Issues http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/establishing-paternity-resolves-an-array-of-issues/ 2016-11-25 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/establishing-paternity-resolves-an-array-of-issues/ Allowable Grounds for Texas No-Fault Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/allowable-grounds-for-texas-no-fault-divorce/ Texas is a no-fault divorce state, but this does not mean that the fault of one party cannot enter into the process. When spouses first seek legal advice about the possibility of filing for divorce, responsible Dallas divorce lawyers should educate them about the full range of grounds that are available for their filings. This decision can potentially have a notable significant effect on any divorce settlement.

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2016-11-11 16:57:18 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/allowable-grounds-for-texas-no-fault-divorce/
Choosing Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/choosing-between-contested-and-uncontested-divorce/ It would be illogical to expect that the marital disagreements that lead to divorce would suddenly disappear so the parties might easily negotiate a variety of important settlement issues. Yet, each year, countless divorcing couples successfully negotiate the settlements needed to move forward with new lives.

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2016-09-28 22:30:52 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/choosing-between-contested-and-uncontested-divorce/
Texas Courts Give Common Law Marriage Rights to Survivors in Same-Sex Marriages http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-courts-give-common-law-marriage-rights-to-survivors-in-same-sex-marriages/ When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of same-sex marriage in June 2015, it took a huge leap toward ensuring that committed gay couples can move forward with the same rights as traditional married couples. Still, Texas couples can continue to experience significant legal issues that apply to relationships formed before that date.

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2016-09-23 08:31:27 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-courts-give-common-law-marriage-rights-to-survivors-in-same-sex-marriages/
Non-Payment of Child Support Does Not Justify Withholding of Visitation http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/non-payment-of-child-support-does-not-justify-withholding-of-visitation/ The final divorce decree serves as a type of contract whereby both parties are expected to abide by every condition without fail. All too often, however, either party attempts to break one or more rules after the divorce is finalized. Failure to make full, timely child support payments is among the most serious breaches of contract because it affects the children.

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2016-09-21 21:41:39 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/non-payment-of-child-support-does-not-justify-withholding-of-visitation/
The Three Components of Texas Child Custody Decisions http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-three-components-of-texas-child-custody-decisions/ It is important to ensure that the best interests of the children are served until they reach adulthood. That said, dealing with the legal issues that determine the relationships with and responsibility for the children can be very complex.

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2016-09-16 20:49:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-three-components-of-texas-child-custody-decisions/
Understanding the Texas Adoption and Foster Care Processes http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-the-texas-adoption-and-foster-care-processes/ In a perfect world, every child would be part of a loving family unit. Unfortunately, at any given time, the children listed with the Texas Department of Family Protective Services (DFPS) alone can number at or near 1,000.

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2016-09-14 22:39:51 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/understanding-the-texas-adoption-and-foster-care-processes/
2014 Cyclecross Season http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2014-cyclecross-season/ The season is alittle more than half way over and it’s time to take stock. Brand new bike to start the season and it has been great. Hydro braing makes a huge difference and carbon really smooth’s out courses. Threw off two chains two weeks in a row because I put the bike down to hard after barriers which tanked two weeks worth of racing. Then got hit with the mud bowl one week followed sub 30 temps the next week. It’s been a season of attrition so far but hey I’m riding my bike and having fun. Off to the State races this weekend and totally stoked to see other racers and chat it up after the race. I wish more of my immediate riding crew took xcross more serious but my raceteam www.dallasbikeworks.com always has a huge showing both locally and at State’s. Ths weekend should be no different. Off to Fort Worth for Colonel’s Sho Air!

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2015-11-15 05:27:41 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2014-cyclecross-season/
Domestic Violence Disclosure in Divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/domestic-violence-disclosure-in-divorce/ People magazine recently ran a story about a celebrity divorce that happened 24 years ago in which rumors and questions of domestic violence during the divorce came up. The full story can be read here http://goo.gl/0SQBuc. Without going into a huge discussion about how domestic violence is a serious societal problem which would be beyond the scope of this blog post; it does raise the question of when is a divorce really over? The article reports “heckling him over rumors that he had abused his famous ex-wife. “They’d scream, ‘Hey Justice, hit the ball like you hit Halle!’ “he remembers.” I would imagine most people would not want to answer any possible marital indiscretions or wrongs for the intervening 24 years after their divorce.

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2015-11-11 04:45:06 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/domestic-violence-disclosure-in-divorce/
STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR DIVORCE http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/stress-management-for-divorce/ So clients frustrate me. They frustrate me pretty often in fact. My frustration usually stems from client conversations that typically start with clients asking a very simple question and expecting a very simple answer. The answer is inexplicably long and complicated usually ending with “it really depends on…” Clients get upset because they don’t get the answer they want.  They aren’t so much upset with me because of poor work product or poor legal work but rather they are having an emotional reaction to a situation that is completely out of their control.

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2015-10-29 05:03:55 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/stress-management-for-divorce/
November 2015 – Notable Results Update http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/november-2015-notable-results-update/ October 12th: Mr. Granata successfully secured above guideline child support award against an obligor who was attempting to retire at 49 years of age and claim reduced wages.

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2015-10-13 05:22:30 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/november-2015-notable-results-update/
November 2014 – Notable Results Update http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/november-2014-notable-results-update/ November 13th: Mr. Granata successfully obtained a modification to a residency restriction allowing his client to move so as to allow her to obtain her MBA by showing that the move (and the degree) would be a positive improvement for her, the children and the non-custodial parent.

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2014-11-15 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/november-2014-notable-results-update/
July 2011 – A Noteworthy Reminder http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/july-2011-a-noteworthy-reminder/ This year’s July has 5 Fridays 5 Saturdays and 5 Sundays.  This apparently happens once every 823 years. If you are a non-custodial parent and are trying to maximize the time you have with your child(ren) then you will want to designate the month of June (as opposed to the default month of July) because you pick up an extra weekend in July. Remember, notices to the custodial parent are almost always due by April 1st of each year so get your notices out. You have seven days left! Conversely the custodial parent has until April 15th of each year to designate their summer possession.

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2011-03-24 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/july-2011-a-noteworthy-reminder/
Notable Results Update http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/notable-results-update/ February 25, 2011: Mr. Granata sucessfully negotiated over $100,000.00 in retirement funds being awarded to his client which represented approximately 90% of the community property.

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2011-03-11 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/notable-results-update/
H.B. No. 1262 Posession Guidelines for Children Under 3 Years of Age http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/h-b-no-1262-posession-guidelines-for-children-under-3-years-of-age/ Interesting House Bill that sets guidelines for Courts to use when setting non-custodial parents possession and parenting time for children under three years of age. The bill stops short of implementing and recommending an actual schedule but does utilize guidelines for a Court to look to for setting visitation. It seems to reward parents who step up and become active in a young child’s life as opposed to parents who have shown little or no interest in the care giving of their kids. Personally I am not sure how you quantify Section (a)(2) “the effect on the child that may result from separation from either party” If the child is less than six months old, nonverbal, and both parents have been active in providing care then it would seem impossible to determine what effect seperation would have from either parent beyond established scientific reasearch which would be applicable to all children in general.

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2011-02-17 05:51:45 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/h-b-no-1262-posession-guidelines-for-children-under-3-years-of-age/
Further Results Oriented Lawyering by Mr. Granata http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/further-results-oriented-lawyering-by-mr-granata/ December 13th 2010: successfully mediated primary possession for client. January 6th 2011: successfully defended opposing party’s Motion requesting to cover the health insurance of the parties’ child. The child has a significant medical history of serious medical illnesses. The non-custodial parent also had an inconsistent employment history where gaps in health insurance were likely.

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2011-02-17 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/further-results-oriented-lawyering-by-mr-granata/
Results Oriented Lawyering by Mr. Granata http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/results-oriented-lawyering-by-mr-granata/ November 1st 2010: Mr. Granata successfully stopped two Child Support Witholding Orders that were witholding money on the same child under two different case numbers.

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2010-12-16 06:04:32 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/results-oriented-lawyering-by-mr-granata/
Continued Pattern of Successful Results http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/continued-pattern-of-successful-results/ March 15th 2010: Mr. Granata’s client awarded primary custody March 23 2010: Mr. Granata’s client awarded more than Standard Possession from the custodial parent based on concerns by the Court about the custodial parent’s exaggerated claims about the non-custodial parent.

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2010-10-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/continued-pattern-of-successful-results/
Texas Ranger’s Playoff Run Creates Uncertain Legal Future http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-ranger-s-playoff-run-creates-uncertain-legal-future/ Some legal levity. This author particularly likes footnotes 3 and 7 and it’s tempting to file an Amicus Brief on behalf of the Defendant’s denying the Motion given Lee’s performance last night.

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2010-10-28 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-ranger-s-playoff-run-creates-uncertain-legal-future/
Yet another Texas Family Code 102.003(a)(9) case…. http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/yet-another-texas-family-code-102-003-a-9-case/ 2010-03-12 01:32:11 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/yet-another-texas-family-code-102-003-a-9-case/ Family Law Section March Speaker Announced http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/family-law-section-march-speaker-announced/ 2010-03-08 04:06:06 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/family-law-section-march-speaker-announced/ San Antonio Court of Appeals breaks from tradition on 102.003(a)(9) Standing http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/san-antonio-court-of-appeals-breaks-from-tradition-on-102-003-a-9-standing/ 2010-03-06 06:05:32 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/san-antonio-court-of-appeals-breaks-from-tradition-on-102-003-a-9-standing/ Texas Attorney General attempts to stop divorce http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-attorney-general-attempts-to-stop-divorce/ 2010-03-06 03:50:03 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-attorney-general-attempts-to-stop-divorce/ Mr. Granata’s client awarded primary custody http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-client-awarded-primary-custody/ Primary custody awarded to Mr. Granata’s client who had not been in the child’s life for over four years. Mr. Granata was able to successfully show that changing the child’s primary domicile to the absent parent was necessary because of serious concerns over neglect and abuse with the other parent.

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2010-03-06 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-client-awarded-primary-custody/
Taking Child to Church Could Land You in Jail http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/taking-child-to-church-could-land-you-in-jail/ 2010-03-05 10:03:51 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/taking-child-to-church-could-land-you-in-jail/ Ruling for no periodic child support for Mr. Granata’s client http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/ruling-for-no-periodic-child-support-for-mr-granata-s-client/ Mr. Granata obtained a ruling from the Court, that based on the facts and circumstances of his client, that no periodic child support should be entered. The Court concurred with this position and rendered a ruling where the non-custodial parent would not have to pay child support.

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2010-03-05 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/ruling-for-no-periodic-child-support-for-mr-granata-s-client/
$3,500.00 Award in Attorney’s Fees http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/3-500-00-award-in-attorney-s-fees/ Mr. Granata obtained a judgment against the opposing party for non payment of child support in the amount of $3,500.00.

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2010-03-05 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/3-500-00-award-in-attorney-s-fees/
Important Winter Safety Tips http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/important-winter-safety-tips/ 2010-03-04 08:22:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/important-winter-safety-tips/ 2010 DBA Family Law Section Golf Tournament Announced http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dba-family-law-section-golf-tournament-announced/ 2010-02-09 04:11:25 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dba-family-law-section-golf-tournament-announced/ No Finding of Contempt from Texas Attorney General Filing http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/no-finding-of-contempt-from-texas-attorney-general-filing/ Mr. Granata successfully negotiated an out of court settlement with the Texas Attorney General after they filed an enforcement against his client for failure to pay child support. The terms of the structured agreement required the Attorney General to dismiss their lawsuit. Additionally, the Attorney General agreed to reduce the obligor’s child support obligation in accordance with the guidelines established by the Texas Family Code.

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2010-01-15 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/no-finding-of-contempt-from-texas-attorney-general-filing/
Texas Chief Justice Wallace B. Jefferson speaks at the American Inns of Court http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-chief-justice-wallace-b-jefferson-speaks-at-the-american-inns-of-court/ On January 14th 2010, the Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court spoke at the annual meeting of the American Inns of Court multi chapter joint meeting in Dallas, Texas. I have never had the pleasure of hearing the Chief Justice give a speech before and I found a remarkable similarity in the caliber and quality of his oratory ability that is not often seen. I had a chance to speak with the Chief Justice after his speech and informed him I thought his ability was very similar to United States President Barack Obama. President Obama, in my opinion, has the single best elocution skills I have ever witnessed. What was even more impressive was when he heard me compliment him, he said he hadn’t really prepared all that much for his speech. I’m glad to know that Texans everywhere are privileged to have a Chief Justice with such a high level of elocution skills. I am certainly proud to have him on the Supreme Court.

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2010-01-15 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-chief-justice-wallace-b-jefferson-speaks-at-the-american-inns-of-court/
2010 Dallas Bar Association Family Law Section Charity Golf Tournament Date Set http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-charity-golf-tournament-date-set/ 2010-01-13 04:15:58 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-charity-golf-tournament-date-set/ After a full day Trial before the Court, Mr. Granata successfully lifts the supervision requirement for his client’s access with his children http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-full-day-trial-before-the-court-mr-granata-successfully-lifts-the-supervision-requirement-for-his-client-s-access-with-his-children/ After a full day divorce trial, Mr. Granata successfully obtained a favorable child support ruling that was three times less than the demand from the custodial parent. Mr. Granata also removed an unnecessary requirement that his client’s possession and access with his children be supervised. Mr. Granata successfully established his client did not pose any ongoing threat to his children which was vital for his client’s attempt to reestablish his parental bond.

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2010-01-13 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-full-day-trial-before-the-court-mr-granata-successfully-lifts-the-supervision-requirement-for-his-client-s-access-with-his-children/
Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section’s Annual Bench Bar Conference Announced for 2010 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-s-annual-bench-bar-conference-announced-for-2010/ 2010-01-11 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-s-annual-bench-bar-conference-announced-for-2010/ 2010 Dallas Bar Association Family Law Section Yearly Retreat Day and Time Set http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-yearly-retreat-day-and-time-set/ 2010-01-06 04:36:52 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/2010-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-yearly-retreat-day-and-time-set/ Successfully Negotiated a Finding of No Retroactive Child Support http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-negotiated-a-finding-of-no-retroactive-child-support/ The noncustodial parent (who resides in another state) was facing a back child support judgment potentially in excess of $30,000.00. Mr. Granata successfully negotiated an agreement with the custodial parent’s lawyer that no back or retroactive child support should be entered in this case and thus saved the client

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2010-01-06 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-negotiated-a-finding-of-no-retroactive-child-support/
Motion to Upwardly Adjust Child Support Granted and Request for Interim Attorney’s Fees http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-to-upwardly-adjust-child-support-granted-and-request-for-interim-attorney-s-fees/ A mother who is the primary joint managing conservator of a young child was granted a significant upward adjustment to the father’s child support. The father and his attorney unsuccessfully argued the Court should calculate the obligor’s gross monthly income based on erroneous assumptions. Mr. Granata decisively counter argued the correct application of the calculation the Court should use in arriving at monthly gross income. Mr. Granata’s request for interim attorney’s was also granted.

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2009-12-10 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-to-upwardly-adjust-child-support-granted-and-request-for-interim-attorney-s-fees/
Motion for Additional Possession Time Granted http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-for-additional-possession-time-granted/ Mr. Granata successfully presented and argued a Motion to the Associate Judge of the 330th Judicial District Court a request for his out of state client to obtain additional possession time. Mr. Granata’s client was frustrated with the progress he was making establishing his parent-child relationship with his under three year old son and made the request to the Court. The Court agreed that frequent and continuing contact with a child so young would be in the child’s short and long term best interest.

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2009-11-17 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-for-additional-possession-time-granted/
Motion to Reconsider Granted http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-to-reconsider-granted/ Client mistakenly missed his Court date and a default temporary order was entered. Mr. Granata was retained to fix the default temporary order and successfully argued his Motion to Reconsider the default temporary order. Sole primary custody was switched to his client, a finding of family violence against the other side was entered, child and spousal support was undone and the other side was Ordered to pay support to Mr. Granata’s client. The client is a long time commercial real estate developer and the client happily informed Mr. Granata he “is the best lawyer he has ever seen.”

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2009-11-10 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/motion-to-reconsider-granted/
De Novo Appeal successfully prosecuted http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/de-novo-appeal-successfully-prosecuted/ After client represented themselves Pro Se at a Temporary Orders hearing and unsuccessfully tried to obtain primary custody of their child, the presiding District Court reversed the decision of the Associate Judge and granted Mr. Granata’s client immediate primary custody.

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2009-10-20 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/de-novo-appeal-successfully-prosecuted/
Final Reminder – Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, first monthly social at the Havana Social Club http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/final-reminder-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-first-monthly-social-at-the-havana-social-club/ 2009-09-16 03:27:55 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/final-reminder-dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-first-monthly-social-at-the-havana-social-club/ Obtained $2,500.00 in Discovery Sanctions and Pleadings Struck http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/obtained-2-500-00-in-discovery-sanctions-and-pleadings-struck/ Mr. Granata successfully struck the pleadings against an opposing party for discovery abuse and successfully obtained a judgment for $2,500.00 for costs.

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2009-09-15 02:10:13 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/obtained-2-500-00-in-discovery-sanctions-and-pleadings-struck/
Texas Decides to Abolish Children’s Choices http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-decides-to-abolish-children-s-choices/ 2009-09-10 07:56:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/texas-decides-to-abolish-children-s-choices/ Mr. Granata’s paper for his September 2009 Speaking Engagement for the Dallas Area Paralegals Association, Family Law Section http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-paper-for-his-september-2009-speaking-engagement-for-the-dallas-area-paralegals-association-family-law-section/ 2009-09-09 03:33:03 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-paper-for-his-september-2009-speaking-engagement-for-the-dallas-area-paralegals-association-family-law-section/ Mr. Granata’s Twitter … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-twitter/ 2009-09-08 03:57:59 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-s-twitter/ Mr. Granata is speaking at the September 2009 meeting of the Dallas Area Paralegal Association Family Law section http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-is-speaking-at-the-september-2009-meeting-of-the-dallas-area-paralegal-association-family-law-section/ 2009-09-08 03:44:46 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/mr-granata-is-speaking-at-the-september-2009-meeting-of-the-dallas-area-paralegal-association-family-law-section/ De Novo Appeal successfully defended http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/de-novo-appeal-successfully-defended/ De Novo Appeal filed by the opposing party after losing primary custody was successfully defended. Over $2,000 in costs were assessed against the opposing party in favor of Mr. Granata’s client. Jury trial set for mid 2010.

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2009-09-08 02:46:37 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/de-novo-appeal-successfully-defended/
Dallas Bar Association, Family Law Section, first monthly social http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-first-monthly-social/ 2009-09-07 04:02:38 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/dallas-bar-association-family-law-section-first-monthly-social/ Annual Charity Golf Tournament http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/annual-charity-golf-tournament/ 2009-09-07 04:00:54 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/annual-charity-golf-tournament/ After a trial before the court, Mr. Granata … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-trial-before-the-court-mr-granata/ After a trial before the court, Mr. Granata obtained a below guideline child support award after a demand from the opposing party for a child support figure that was above guidelines.

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2009-06-15 02:47:50 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-trial-before-the-court-mr-granata/
Successfully negotiated a change in primary … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-negotiated-a-change-in-primary/ Successfully negotiated a change in primary conservatorship whereby Mr. Granata’s client had previously had limited access to the child for the last five years and was now named the custodial parent.

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2009-05-21 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-negotiated-a-change-in-primary/
After a half day trial before the Court … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-half-day-trial-before-the-court/ After a half day trial before the Court, Mr. Granata obtained a ruling for below guideline child support and unsupervised access for his client (that very same day) to his child where the opposing party had demanded supervised access.

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2009-05-15 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/after-a-half-day-trial-before-the-court/
The morning his client’s case … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-morning-his-client-s-case/ The morning his client’s case is set for trial, Mr. Granata obtained a settlement whereby his client received 75% of the marital estate.

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2009-04-24 03:11:11 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/the-morning-his-client-s-case/
Successfully defended a request to lift … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-defended-a-request-to-lift/ Successfully defended a request to lift a residency restriction so the custodial parent could move to California and successfully excluded the opposing party’s purported retained custody evaluator from testifying as a custody expert.

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2009-04-14 03:13:33 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-defended-a-request-to-lift/
Successfully obtained primary custody … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-obtained-primary-custody/ Successfully obtained primary custody for his male client after a half day trial before the court. for his male client after a half day trial before the court.

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2009-04-06 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-obtained-primary-custody/
Successfully reduced his client’s … http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-reduced-his-client-s/ Successfully reduced his client’s child support obligation whereby the client was overpaying based on his income and set child support in accordance with the guidelines under the Texas Family Code.

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2009-03-14 00:00:00 http://www.dallasdivorcelawyer.com/blog/successfully-reduced-his-client-s/