Divorce is one of the most stressful experiences in life and dividing everything you built with your spouse can be incredibly complex. Whether you are considering filing for divorce, facing child custody or enforcement issues, modifying a child custody agreement or seeking spousal support, you need a qualified family law attorney to handle your case effectively and protect your rights. Choosing an attorney to represent you in your divorce proceedings can be confusing, especially if it is your first time dealing with such legal matters. Often, people find attorneys based on recommendations from friends and family members, but you should always do your own evaluation of an attorney before hiring them. A lawyer’s reputation is important, but you should also consider their experience and cost.
Finding the best Divorce Attorneys in Houston will help you make an informed decision about who is right for your case. It is always a good idea to contact several attorneys before making your decision. Schedule a consultation with each prospective attorney to get a feel for their personality and style and to discuss your case openly. Ask about their rates; while a simple divorce may be over in a matter of weeks, hotly contested divorces can drag on for years leading to attorney fees in the tens of thousands.
Most lawyers charge by the hour and their rate varies dramatically. Some attorneys in more affordable markets charge as little as $75/hour, while those with larger staffs, specialty practices and/or prestigious certifications can have premium rates of up to $400/hour. You should also consider the amount of hours a potential divorce attorney will spend on your case; a simple divorce could be over in a matter of weeks, while hotly contested divorces can last for years resulting in tens of thousands of dollars in billable hours.
When it comes to child custody cases, the most common issue that arises is determining primary custodianship and visitation rights for parents. The court will typically award primary physical custody to the parent who has been the primary caregiver for most of the child’s life, but in some situations, a judge may determine that shared parenting is more appropriate for the situation. If either party is seeking spousal support, the court will determine their need and award a reasonable alimony payment to the requesting party.
While many people think that Texas is a community property state, this is not necessarily true. Although all property obtained during the marriage is presumed to be community property, there are many factors that the court will evaluate when deciding what is a “fair” share of the marital estate.
A skilled North Houston divorce attorney can assist with a wide range of family law matters. They will work hard to protect your interests and ensure the best outcome for you and your children. Their expertise will guide you through the process of a divorce or other family law dispute with ease and compassion.
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