Child Custody and Visitation
Texas courts make custody decisions based on the best interests of the child, considering factors like stability, parental involvement, and the child's preferences when appropriate.
We represent parents in:
- Initial custody determinations during divorce
- Modifications of existing custody orders
- Enforcement actions when the other parent violates court orders
- Relocation disputes involving moves outside Dallas County or Texas
- Grandparent access and third-party custody cases
Commute times between neighborhoods, school district boundaries, and work schedules all play a role in developing practical parenting plans. Our attorneys help parents navigate these considerations while advocating for arrangements that serve their children's needs.
Child Support
Child support in Texas follows statutory guidelines based on the paying parent's income and the number of children. We assist our clients with establishing initial support orders, modifying existing orders when circumstances change, and enforcing payment when the other parent falls behind.
Support modifications may be appropriate when either parent experiences a significant change in income, employment status, or financial obligations. For local professionals whose compensation includes bonuses, stock options, or commission-based income, our firm is prepared to help.
Adoption
Adoption creates permanent legal bonds between parents and children. The Stuart Firm handles several types of adoptions for local families.
These include:
- Stepparent adoptions when a new spouse wants to legally adopt their partner's child
- Agency adoptions through licensed adoption organizations
- DFPS adoptions involving children in the foster care system
Each type of adoption follows different procedures and requirements under Texas law. We guide families through home studies, background checks, termination of parental rights when necessary, and finalization hearings in Dallas County courts.
Paternity and Legitimation
Establishing legal parentage protects both parents' rights and provides children with access to support and benefits. We help our clients establish paternity through voluntary acknowledgment or court proceedings, which opens the door to custody, visitation, and support determinations.
Protective Orders
When family relationships turn dangerous, protective orders can provide legal protection from abuse or harassment. We represent people seeking protective orders and those defending against them, handling emergency hearings and full hearings in Dallas County courts.
Spousal Maintenance
Texas law allows for spousal maintenance in limited circumstances, typically when one spouse lacks sufficient earning ability or property to meet basic needs. These cases often involve marriages of long duration or situations where one spouse has been out of the workforce for years. We advocate for fair maintenance arrangements based on the specific facts of each case.
Call (432) 284-4411 or contact us online to schedule a consultation about your family law case. Our positive reviews speak volumes about our firm.
