You may be asking yourself, “What is family law?” Family law is a multifaceted and intricate field that covers a broad spectrum of legal issues. A family law attorney is a legal professional specializing in cases related to family relationships. This guide is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of family law in Texas, covering divorce, child custody, adoption, and more.
If you are looking for an elite family law attorney in Tomball, The Woodlands, or the surrounding areas, Bolton Law Firm, P.C. is the right firm for you. With a skilled team of family lawyers, led by Board-Certified lawyer, Ruby Bolton, we are known for our successes in and out of the courtroom. Family law cases matter and the legal process can be daunting- let us be your guide.
Texas Family Law: An Overview
Family law is a legal practice area that addresses family-related matters and domestic relations. It encompasses issues related to marriage, divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and more.
The Texas Family Code: A Closer Look
Family law in Texas is regulated by the Texas Family Code, a set of statutory rules. The Texas Family Code is divided into five primary sections.
Marriage Laws in Texas
Under Texas law, individuals must be at least 18 years old to marry without consent. Those aged 16-17 can marry with consent. There is a mandatory 72-hour waiting period after obtaining a marriage license, with certain exceptions (Texas Family Code §2.101).
In Texas, marriage laws are inclusive of both opposite-sex and same-sex couples, ensuring equal rights under state law. Family laws regulate the legal requirements for marriage, including prohibitions against marrying close family members. Texas also has specific rules regarding marital property, distinguishing between separate and community property acquired during the marriage. Understanding these family laws is crucial for couples to protect their rights and obligations within the marriage.
Child Custody Laws in Texas
In Texas, the term “managing conservatorship” is used instead of custody. The court can designate parents as joint managing conservators, sharing decision-making authority, even if the child resides with only one parent (Texas Family Code §153.131).
Child custody laws in Texas aim to serve the best interests of the child during divorce proceedings. These laws dictate how custody and visitation rights are established, either through mutual agreement or court rulings. While joint custody is often preferred, legal representation is essential in child custody cases. Family members seeking custody must comply with these regulations to ensure the child’s welfare is prioritized.
Divorce Laws in Texas
Texas operates under community property laws, meaning all property acquired during a marriage is equally owned by both spouses, with certain exceptions (Texas Family Code §3.002). Texas is also a no-fault divorce state, meaning no specific reason needs to be provided for the dissolution of the marriage, only that it is irretrievably broken (Texas Family Code §6.001).
Adoption Laws in Texas
Adoption laws are designed to protect the best interests of the child while providing a clear framework for prospective adoptive parents. The adoption process involves several legal steps, including home studies and court approvals, to ensure that children are placed in safe and loving homes. Family law governs these procedures, ensuring that both biological parents and adoptive parents understand their rights and responsibilities. Once completed, the adoption grants adoptive parents the same legal rights and obligations as biological parents.
In Texas, an adult can petition the court to adopt a child who is eligible for adoption. Adoption legally establishes a parent-child relationship between individuals who are not biologically parent and child (Texas Family Code §162.001).
Spousal Support Laws in Texas
Texas recognizes two main types of long-term spousal support. Spousal support, or contractual alimony, is a voluntary agreement made by the spouses during settlement negotiations. Spousal maintenance, however, is court-ordered (Texas Family Code §8.001).
Child Support Laws in Texas
Child support in Texas is based on net income from all sources. Employers are legally required to withhold child support from wages, along with any ordered medical and dental support and back child support (Texas Family Code §154.062).
Property Division Laws in Texas
Texas law mandates that community property be divided in a manner that is “just and right.” This means that property must be divided equitably based on factors that a court may consider, such as each spouse’s earning power, who has custody of any children, each spouse’s health, education, and other related issues (Texas Family Code §7.001).
Paternity Laws in Texas
Paternity, or legal fatherhood, is important for unmarried parents. In Texas, a biological father does not have legal rights to his child until paternity is established (Texas Family Code §160.201).
Paternity laws in Texas, like in many states, are designed to establish legal parental rights for children born outside of marriage. The court system plays a crucial role in determining paternity, which in turn affects custody and child support issues. Domestic courts handle these cases, ensuring that the child’s best interests are prioritized. Establishing paternity can be straightforward or complex, depending on the circumstances, and involves legal steps to confirm the biological father’s identity and responsibilities.
Domestic Violence Laws in Texas
Texas does not have specific laws for family violence or dating violence. Instead, Texas domestic violence laws are classified under assault statutes, similar to aggravated assault or simple assault (Texas Penal Code §22.01).
Texas domestic violence laws aim to protect individuals in family relationships through various measures, including obtaining a protective order or restraining order. These state laws involve many steps to ensure the safety of victims and can lead to criminal charges against the abuser. A protective order can be requested when domestic violence occurs between two persons in a close relationship, such as spouses or partners. The law prioritizes the safety of victims while enforcing strict penalties for perpetrators.
Call Our Elite Tomball Family Law Attorneys
While this guide offers a general overview of family law in Texas, it’s important to note that exceptions may exist and laws can change over time. Therefore, it’s always recommended to seek legal advice from an attorney to advise you in your specific situation.
Navigating the complexities of the family law system can be challenging. However, with the right resources and legal advice, you can confidently navigate the process. Remember, every family unit situation is unique, and the laws are there to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved.
If you are looking for an elite family law attorney in Tomball, The Woodlands, or the surrounding areas, Bolton Law Firm, P.C. is the right firm for you. With a skilled team of attorneys, led by Board-Certified lawyer, Ruby Bolton, we are known for our successes in and out of the courtroom.
Contact us today at 281-351-7897 to get the best representation in your family law case.
