The short answer is yes. In the state of Texas, marijuana is still an illegal drug. That means the law handles it the same as any other illegal substance. Pot being illegal isn't the only reason using it will impact your divorce. As more states join the movement of legalizing marijuana, it may leave you wondering if smoking pot will have an impact on your divorce. If you’re headed for divorce or … [Read more...]
When is it Too Late to Save a Marriage?
Nearly half of all American couples give up on their marriage. According to the American Psychological Association, 90 percent of people marry by age 50. Out of those marriages, 40 to 50 percent end in divorce.* One question is when is it too late to salvage a marriage if one or both of the spouses wanted to do so? Attorney Paula Lock Smyth has advised clients on what steps to take to make that … [Read more...]
Mother’s Rights in Child Custody
Do Mother's Rights Differ from Father's in Child Custody Cases? Most people assume mother’s rights hold more weight in child custody cases. This is partly true because the courts did favor mothers in the past. There’s also an assumption that mothers are better parents because of their role as nurturer. The reality is that the law has evolved to allow parents equal rights in custody cases; … [Read more...]
How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce?
Going through a divorce can be an emotional time. Although it may be something you didn’t plan, you do want closure if the marriage has ended. It’s not easy to move forward while you’re still going through the process, but it helps to know when the divorce will be final. Hopefully, I can help you understand how long it takes to get a divorce and what goes on in the process. How long does a … [Read more...]
6 Dos and Don’ts of Social Media and Divorce
Social media isn’t a tool to vent when you’re going through a divorce. You’re under a lot of scrutiny throughout that process, particularly with a divorce that’s contested or involves a custody battle or property dispute. It’s wise to take a break from social media during the divorce. If you must stay connected, follow my Dos and Don’ts of Social Media and Divorce. When it comes to social media … [Read more...]
What To Expect When Filing For Divorce
Divorce comes with many life changes. It can be challenging if you haven’t braced yourself for those changes or if you don’t know what to expect. While dealing with clients at Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices, I’ve frequently been asked several common questions about what to expect when filing for divorce. Where do we start? The process starts with my asking the client how they want to proceed. I … [Read more...]
This Post-Divorce Checklist is Guaranteed to Help You After Court
Are you fresh out of a divorce and glad to be done with the lengthy process? Don’t exhale just yet. The work may not be completely over. Before you get adjusted to your clean slate, there are a few things you need to do. Use this post-divorce checklist with recommendations from Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices to take care of business. Changes to Property Arrangements Whether it’s multiple … [Read more...]
Why I Believe in the Collaborative Divorce Process
Divorce ends an old and begins a new chapter of life. It is often a challenging transition that should be handled with care. Working with attorneys and professionals, clients can resolve divorce matters in a civil manner and with concern for sensitive and difficult life situations. That’s what we at Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices seek to do in the collaborative divorce process. What is the … [Read more...]
The Pros and Cons of Each Type of Divorce
In a divorce, the issues of child custody, visitation and the division of assets and debts are resolved by one of 3 processes: an agreement of the parties, the collaborative divorce method or through adversarial litigation. There are pros and cons to each type of divorce. Agreement of the Parties – The Kitchen Table Model Most people don't want their personal life aired out and on display in a … [Read more...]
Two Approaches To Divorce In Texas
In most cases, a divorce in Texas actually consists of two family law issues that are consolidated into a single case. Assuming that there are children and property, the first and most important issue that's addressed involves the best interests of the children of the parties to the divorce. Don't Delay After Service In nearly all cases, the petitioner must serve the respondent with a … [Read more...]