A family-law case can change where you live, how you manage your finances, and how you spend time with your children. Before agreeing to terms or responding to a lawsuit, it is important to understand the decisions the case may require.
Harrell & Paulson helps clients with divorce and related family-law matters in Kaufman and Rockwall counties and surrounding communities. We work with you to identify immediate concerns, evaluate proposed arrangements, and prepare for the next stage of the case.
Divorce and property division
Divorce involves more than ending a marriage. The case may require identifying assets and debts, evaluating claims of separate property, addressing the family home and dividing retirement or business interests.
Texas courts divide the community estate in a manner considered just and right; that does not require an equal division in every case. The characterization, value, and documentation of property can make a significant difference. We help clients organize financial information and evaluate proposed divisions in light of the applicable law and facts.
Parenting arrangements and support
When children are involved, the order should address both decision-making and the details of parenting time. Important subjects may include the child’s primary residence, school decisions, holidays, transportation, child support, health insurance, and unreimbursed medical expenses.
Texas uses the terms conservatorship for parental rights and duties and possession and access for parenting time. A workable order should address your family’s circumstances rather than rely on labels alone. Visit our child custody and support pages for more information.
Temporary orders and immediate concerns
The issues that arise while a case is pending may be as important as the final terms. Depending on the circumstances, temporary orders can address parenting arrangements, support, use of property and other immediate needs. Tell the firm promptly about safety concerns, pending hearings or an existing protective order. Call 911 in an emergency.
Agreements, mediation and contested cases
Some spouses agree on the broad terms but need help addressing details and preparing an enforceable decree. Others disagree about property, children, or support. We help evaluate proposed agreements and prepare for mediation or litigation when necessary.
An agreement should be based on a clear understanding of its consequences. Do not assume that a form, informal promise, or proposed decree protects your interests simply because the other party describes the case as uncontested.
Common questions
How soon can a divorce be finished?
Texas generally has a 60-day waiting period after filing, with statutory exceptions. The waiting period is not a promise that the case will be completed in 60 days. Service, unresolved issues, and court scheduling may affect the timeline.
What should I gather before a consultation?
Have existing court orders and filed papers available. A preliminary list of assets and debts, recent income records, and your main concerns about the children or property can help focus the discussion. Ask the office how to share records securely.
Discuss your next step
Call (972) 932-4412 or request a consultation. Mention any deadline or hearing, and let us know a safe way to contact you.
Source/approval note: S02, S32; Texas Family Code sections 6.702, 7.001, 105.001, 153.002 and 153.135. Review residence, jurisdiction, and service issues individually; no case-specific deadline is stated here.