Paula Lock Smyth

Dallas Family Law & Divorce Attorney

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You are here: Home / Archives for Blog / Collaborative Divorce

The Dangers of a DIY Divorce

May 2, 2024 By Paula Lock Smyth

Are you thinking about handling your divorce on your own? It might appear to be a good idea, especially if your situation seems uncomplicated; however, before you go down that road, it is important to understand that a DIY divorce could cause more problems than it solves and cost you more in the end. Do It Yourself Divorce is Not Always a Good Fit A DIY divorce may work for a select few … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce

My Marriage Is Over, Now What?

January 25, 2024 By Paula Lock Smyth

Marriage is over

So, you find yourself at a crossroads, believing that your marriage has run its course. It's a tough situation to be in, but understanding your next steps is crucial. Let's walk through what you need to consider, especially if there are minor children or complex finances involved. For Those with Children If there are minor children in the picture, it is recommended that you and your spouse … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce, Divorce Tagged With: end of a marriage, Managing Emotions

Managing a High Conflict Divorce

August 16, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Divorce and Conflict

Divorce is rarely an easy process, but when one of the parties involved has a high conflict personality, it can become an emotional rollercoaster.  High conflict personalities can create a hostile environment, leading to increased disputes and challenges during the divorce process. Understanding the High Conflict Personality Type A high conflict personality is someone who possesses a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: divorce in Texas, High Conflict

Things to Avoid While Going Through a Divorce

August 4, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

divorce

Going through a divorce can be emotionally challenging, but it's crucial to approach the process with caution. By avoiding certain behaviors, individuals can help mitigate additional complications and work towards a smoother transition. There are several important things to avoid while going through a divorce. Steer Clear of the Courtroom: It's advisable to explore alternatives to the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: collaborative law, divorce in Texas

What is a Contested Divorce?

July 5, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

uncontested divorce

When couples find themselves unable to agree on essential matters related to their divorce, it becomes a contested divorce.  In this blog post, we delve into the concept of a contested divorce, exploring disagreements that can lead to such a situation and the different methods available to resolve them, including mediation and collaborative divorce. Understanding a Contested Divorce: A … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce, Divorce

What is a No-Fault Divorce and Why is it Important?

June 26, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

No-Fault Divorce

A no-fault divorce refers to the Texas Family Code grounds for divorce.  In a no-fault divorce, a court can grant the dissolution of a marriage without blaming either party for the failure of the marriage.  No-fault divorce acknowledges that the marriage is insupportable (i.e. irretrievably broken down) and that there is no chance of reconciliation. The importance of no-fault divorce is … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Texas

Managing Emotions During a Divorce

June 14, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Managing Emotions and Divorce

Managing your emotions during your divorce can be an extremely challenging task. Divorce is an emotional time and can cause intense feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, and fear.  It is crucial to manage and control these emotions during the divorce process because unmanaged emotions can lead to poor decision-making and possibly impede the divorce process. Here are my top divorce tips … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: Managing Emotions

What Do People Need to Know About Getting a Divorce in Dallas?  

May 12, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Divorce in Texas

Every jurisdiction has its own rules for how the family law court system works. Dallas County is no different. It is a large county, which means there are many courts assigned to family law matters. There is some specific information relevant to Dallas County that you may find helpful. Dallas County has Specialized Family Law Courts Because of the size of the county, there are specialized … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce Tagged With: collaborative law, divorce in Texas

Divorce: Fear of Missing Out

April 6, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Divorce and Emotions

Beginning the divorce process is often intimidating. Emotions run high even if both parties agree that a divorce is going to happen. Often, one spouse wants the divorce and the other one is uncertain or does not want the divorce. Decisions must be made about property division, where will the children live, how can each parent spend quality time with the children and how will a one-household … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Collaborative Divorce, Divorce Tagged With: emotions, Family Law, Fears

Can I Modify My Divorce Settlement?

October 31, 2022 By Paula Lock Smyth

Divorce Settlement

Divorcing couples often ask if they will later be able to modify the terms of their settlement agreement. The answer is not an easy one and is both yes and no, depending on what portion or portions of the order the person wants to modify. Petition to Modify Only the court can issue an order modifying the terms of a divorce decree. If you need a modification, you must file a petition with the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce, Divorce Tagged With: collaborative law, Divorce Settlement, Modifications, property division

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Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices

2911 Turtle Creek Blvd. Ste. 300
Dallas, Texas 75219

Phone: 214-420-1800
Fax: 214-420-1801

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From the Blog

The benefits of taking a break prior to filing for divorce

Every marriage goes through its ups and downs.  In cases where a marriage is dominated by … [Read More...]

Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices
2911 Turtle Creek Blvd. Ste. 300
Dallas, Texas 75219

Phone: 214-420-1800
Fax: 214-420-1801

Disclaimer
The contents of this website does not imply legal advise or counsel and does not establish an attorney/client relationship. Please contact us for information on our policies regarding any relationship with clients, potential clients, or non-clients of our firm.

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  • Home
  • Firm Overview
    ▼
    • My Practice
    • Professional History
    • Memberships, Activities, Recognition
  • Practice Areas
    ▼
    • Divorce
      ▼
      • Alternatives to Divorce
      • High Net Worth Divorce
      • Valuation of Assets
    • Collaborative Divorce
    • Mediation
    • Parenting Rights
      ▼
      • Adoption
      • How Divorce Affects Children
    • Child Custody
      ▼
      • Parenting Plans
      • Relocation Issues
    • Probate, Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning
  • FAQs
    ▼
    • Just Been Served Papers? Now What?
    • Child Support FAQs
    • How Long Does It Take To Get A Divorce?
    • Is There Such a Thing as Legal Separation?
  • Blog
  • Contact Us