Paula Lock Smyth

Dallas Family Law & Divorce Attorney

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You are here: Home / Archives for Blog / Divorce

Pets and Divorce

April 17, 2025 By Paula Lock Smyth

Snickers the Dog

If you and your spouse are getting divorced and have a pet, you already know how emotional the situation can become. Pets are more than property. They’re family. But under Texas law, pets are technically considered property. That means the court isn't required to give you a custody or visitation schedule for your furry friend. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Your Pet Is … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Divorce Tagged With: Pets

What Are the Different Types of Divorce Lawyers?

February 21, 2025 By Paula Lock Smyth

Different Types of Divorce Lawyers

When you're going through a divorce, choosing the right attorney is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Not all divorce lawyers are the same. They have different backgrounds, levels of experience, and approaches to handling cases. Here is a simple guide to understanding the different types of divorce lawyers. General Practice Attorneys Some lawyers dabble in divorce cases even … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Collaborative Divorce, Divorce

The Impact of Divorce on a Child’s Education

February 15, 2024 By Paula Lock Smyth

Divorce and Children

Divorce is undoubtedly a challenging experience for families. Its consequences can extend beyond emotional upheaval. A divorce can affect many aspects of a child's life, particularly their education. As a parent going through a divorce, it's crucial to understand and address the potential impact on your child's education. Financial Planning for Educational Expenses After a divorce, one of … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Divorce Tagged With: Children

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

Mediation in Texas: The Pros and Cons

September 11, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Mediation and Divorce

As an experienced Dallas Family Law Attorney, I've had the privilege of witnessing the dynamics of mediation firsthand, both as a Mediator and as an attorney representing a party to the mediation. Mediation is a powerful tool in resolving legal disputes, offering both advantages and potential pitfalls. The Pros of Mediation The pros of mediation are abundant, and they play a pivotal role in … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Divorce Tagged With: divorce in Texas, Mediation

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

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

Common Divorce Misconception: Fathers Never Get Custody of Their Children

January 6, 2023 By Paula Lock Smyth

Custody and Fathers

Many people still think that courts prefer to award primary custody of the children to the mother. Although that may have been true decades ago, that is not the reality today. Traditionally, at the time when mothers stayed at home and took care of the children while the man of the house advanced his career, that may have been a natural solution when the couple split up. Now, it may be a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Child Custody, Divorce Tagged With: Children, Common, custody, Fathers

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

What Makes a Good Divorce Lawyer?

October 12, 2022 By Paula Lock Smyth

Better Divorce

Getting a divorce is a highly stressful life event. It helps to have an experienced divorce attorney by your side who you trust to help you make life-changing decisions involved in a divorce. Consider the following qualities as you consider your choice for a divorce attorney. What Makes a Good Divorce Attorney? Some specific qualities in a good divorce attorney are: Someone who really … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blog, Divorce Tagged With: Attorney

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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

Custody Evaluation

What is a Custody Evaluation?

When parents are unable to agree on a parenting plan in a divorce or suit affecting the parent-child … [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