The holiday season often presents problems with divorced parents. If they are unable to put aside their differences and either be together with their children or work out an agreement, they will need to follow the court’s standard possession schedule for the holidays. The Court’s Standard Holiday Possession Order Courts divide Christmas school vacation for the children into two … [Read more...]
Archives for 2021
Dealing with Divorce and the Holidays: Part 1
Holidays are upon us and many parents who are divorced or going through the divorce process do not feel as merry and bright as presented in songs of the season. Parents, who are often reeling emotionally from their breakup, are now charged with the task of making this a fun time for their children. This is part one of our suggestions for how you can enjoy the holiday season and develop new … [Read more...]
How Fast Can Someone Get a Divorce in Texas?
According to Texas law, you must wait a minimum of 60 days after the divorce petition is filed before the divorce can be finalized. The likely purpose of the waiting period is to give the parties time to reflect and see if there is any possibility of reconciliation. A problem that arises is that sometimes, the parties think something magical happens on Day 61 and that the divorce is … [Read more...]
When Divorced Parents Disagree Over Their Children’s COVID Vaccinations
Now that children aged 12 and over are approved for COVID vaccinations, some divorced parents, or those in the process of divorce, disagree about whether they want their children to be vaccinated. Parents may feel they are at an impasse and unsure of how to resolve their differences over this important issue. Parents often do not realize that a vaccination, which involves puncturing the skin, … [Read more...]
Can I Date During My Divorce?
Clients who are going through a divorce often ask if it is okay to date during the divorce. The answer is a resounding “No!” Although it is frustrating not to be able to get on with your life and do what you want to do, there are many reasons why you should not date during the divorce process. Legal Reason Not to Date During Your Divorce Texas law allows for a no-fault divorce. This means … [Read more...]
Why Would Someone Want to Avoid Going to Court in a Divorce Case?
Some people who are divorcing believe going to court will solve their problems. They expect to “win” and have all their expectations met. They hope for a Solomon-esq moment when the court does the “right” thing and gives them justice. This is not a realistic expectation. Generally, after a court battle, both parties feel like losers. There are many reasons why going to court is not worth the … [Read more...]
Contesting A Parenting Plan
How to handle child custody and support are often the most contentious issues that must be decided during the divorce process. Some parents are able to work together to put together their own parenting agreement. When they cannot do this, the court will order a parenting plan for them to follow. When a parent is disputing custody of their child, in most courts, the Judge will appoint … [Read more...]
What Is A Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is just what it sounds like: A plan put together by the parents or the court about how the parents of minor children will interact with each other in a way that will be in the best interest of the children. It includes terms for conservatorship, access to the children, child support and healthcare. Elements of a Co-Parenting Plan A co-parenting plan includes terms … [Read more...]
Divorce: How Much Will It Cost?
One of the most common questions I get is, “How much will my divorce cost?” For anything except the most simple case, there is no way to predict the cost of a divorce. It depends on the type of divorce process the couple chooses to pursue, if the opponent has an attorney or is representing themselves, the methods used by the opposing attorney, the court that the case is filed in, the … [Read more...]
When Parents Do Not Agree on Vaccinating their Children
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine is currently available for those ages 16 and up. Trials are being conducted and one source predicts that in the next few months, a vaccine will be available for those ages 3 to 17. This raises a serious question about what to do when parents disagree about whether their child should be vaccinated. The First Step: Look at the Court Order If your child is the … [Read more...]