When parents are battling over how custody of a child will be shared, one or both of them may want their child to have a say in the matter -- especially if they think their child will "choose" them to be their primary caregiver. Some judges want to hear from kids who...
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Austin Texas Family Law Blog
Understanding the alimony tax changes that took effect this year
Most of the changes brought about by the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) took effect in Tax Year 2018. One of the most reported-on changes, however, doesn't impact taxpayers until they file their 2019 taxes. That's the removal of the tax implications of alimony...
Do custody plans allow children to leave the state?
Parents who are planning to divorce or recently divorced are probably in the process of figuring out how they can best accommodate their children's needs. Child custody planning can get especially tricky for people who travel a lot for work. Most parents decide to...
Some benefits of a mediated divorce you may not have considered
Texas law requires that divorcing couples at least attempt mediation. However, many couples choose to continue the mediation process through to the end to divide their assets and debts and determine custody and support issues. If you and your spouse can work together...
How to minimize holiday stress with a blended family
If you're a divorced parent, it's likely that eventually you'll become part of a blended family. Your new spouse may have children. Your co-parent may have a new spouse and stepchildren. There could be a host of grandparents, aunts and uncles and other relatives in...
When you need a restraining order with your divorce
Sometimes, you just need a divorce. Other times, you may need a restraining order to go along with it. How can you tell whether you should seek a restraining order with your divorce? You should know that you don't have to be a battered spouse to seek this type of...
What should you do if your kids don’t like your new partner?
You've been divorced for a while. You've met someone you've come to really care about, and you introduce them to your children. You start slowly with short outings or a pizza-and-movie night at home. However, it soon becomes clear that your kids don't like your new...
Catch your breath before rushing to date after divorce
Going through a divorce can make you feel like you just went a few rounds with Mike Tyson. It can knock the stuffing out of even emotionally hardy individuals. If the divorce was initiated by your ex and unwanted by you, the grief you feel is very much like what you'd...
Things you definitely shouldn’t do if you’re in a custody battle
If you're in a custody battle with your ex or soon-to-be-ex, the stress and anger you feel may cause you to behave in ways that will only harm your case. If you believe that your co-parent and possibly the judge and others who have a say in the outcome are being...
Should you ask for a divorce before or after the holidays?
You've reached the point in your marriage where you're ready to tell your spouse that you want a divorce. With the end of the year closing in, is it better to have one last holiday season together and wait until the new year to announce your intentions? Should you do...