Family Lawyer in El Paso
Protecting Your Family and Your Interests
Family law matters are often some of the most complicated. They generally involve emotionally charged issues and loved ones with competing interests. Whether you are going through a divorce or fighting for custody of your child, the legal process can be grueling. Without the help of an attorney, you may not have someone advocating for your best interests and the best interests of your family.
At the Aranda Law Firm, our attorneys understand dealing with a family law matter can be extremely challenging. That is why we thoughtfully guide you through the process and work tirelessly to get you the best result possible.
Call our office at (915) 996-9914 to schedule a confidential consultation with a family lawyer in El Paso.
Types of Family Law Cases
Family law encompasses a wide range of legal cases. From divorce to protective orders, your case may involve one or more matters that can and should be handled by a family law attorney.
Types of family law cases in El Paso:
One of the most common types of family law cases in El Paso is a divorce. Texas recognizes both no-fault and fault-based divorces, but you must meet residency requirements before you file.
Child custody
Child custody cases are often some of the most challenging to go through. A legal representative can help you fight to ensure that the best interests of your child or children are protected. The court may grant joint custody or give one parent sole custody, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Child support
The custodial parent may be able to seek child support from the non-custodial parent. It is important to follow all court orders. Even if you have a change in circumstances, a change in child support can only be made through a modification agreed to by the court.
Adoption
The legal process to adopt a child can be painstakingly difficult. There are often obstacles at every step. Working with an El Paso family lawyer can help save both time and money.
Annulment
Under certain circumstances, you may be able to annul your marriage. If granted, an annulment will make the marriage as though it never happened, unlike a divorce, which legally ends a marriage.
Protective orders
If you or your child are in an unsafe situation, the court may issue a protective order. A protective order can help ensure that the person placing you under threat of harm is legally required to stay away.
Modifications
Any order by the court must be followed until a modification is agreed to and a new order is signed. Failure to follow a court order before a modification is made can lead to significant consequences.
Family law is a general term that covers a variety of different cases. Many times, these cases are complex. Each situation is unique. That is why our El Paso family lawyers will develop an innovative legal solution to ensure that your interests, your family, and your assets are protected.
Types of Divorce in Texas
In Texas, there are two basic types of divorce: an uncontested or agreed divorce and a contested or litigated divorce. You can also seek a collaborative law divorce or a mediated resolution where you work to resolve your case outside of the formal court setting.
What to know about divorce in El Paso:
- Uncontested divorce: Uncontested or agreed divorces occur when both parties can agree to the terms of the divorce. The issues in the matter are not disputed. Uncontested divorces are generally easier compared to contested divorces, but it is still recommended that both parties have legal representation to ensure their interests are protected.
- Contested divorce: Contested or litigated divorces occur when parties cannot agree on one or more issues in the divorce. The matter must then be litigated, and the court ultimately decides the case. Contested divorces take longer to settle and are usually considerably more expensive compared to uncontested divorces.
All divorces start with a petition and have a timeline that must be followed. However, in order to be eligible to file for divorce in Texas, you must meet residency requirements. Under state law, you or your spouse must have lived in Texas for at least six months prior to filing and have been a resident for 90 days in the county where you have filed your petition.
Grounds for Divorce in El Paso, TX
Texas recognizes both fault-based and no-fault divorces. In no-fault divorces, neither spouse must prove that the acts of the other spouse caused the dissolution. No-fault divorces may be based on insupportability.
Insupportability is when the marriage becomes insupportable due to “discord or conflict of personalities that destroys the legitimate ends of the marital relationship and prevents any reasonable expectation of reconciliation.”
Grounds for a fault-based divorce in Texas:
- Cruelty
- Adultery
- Conviction of a felony
- Abandonment
- Living apart for at least three years
- Confinement in a mental hospital
It is important to understand all of your rights and responsibilities when seeking a divorce in Texas. The process can be complicated. Whether you are filing for a fault-based or no-fault divorce, you should thoroughly review the requirements with your El Paso family lawyer to prevent untimely and costly delays.
Getting the Legal Help You Need
Working with a family law attorney can help ensure you get the most favorable outcome in your case. It is essential to consult with a family lawyer as early in the process as possible to ensure you explore all of your legal options.
Call the Aranda Law Firm at (915) 996-9914 to speak to one of our skilled family lawyers in El Paso.
