(361) 289-6040
Family law issues can be emotionally charged and legally complex, especially when they affect relationships and loved ones. Whether it involves divorce, child custody, adoption, or child protection services, having an experienced family law attorney by your side can make all the difference. For residents of Corpus Christi, the legal team at Bourlon Law Firm stands ready to provide guidance, support, and representation in a wide range of family law matters.
Understanding Family Law in Texas
Family law encompasses a variety of legal matters that pertain to family relationships, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, and parental rights. In Texas, family law is governed by the Texas Family Code, a comprehensive body of laws that lays out the rights and responsibilities of individuals within a family unit. This includes provisions for child support, spousal maintenance, and the division of community property during divorce proceedings.
Family law can be especially challenging because it often involves deeply personal and sensitive issues. Whether you are navigating a divorce or seeking custody of your child, a qualified attorney can help you understand your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
Divorce and Separation
Divorce is one of the most common issues addressed by family law attorneys, and the process can be complicated by disputes over child custody, property division, and spousal support. In Texas, a couple can file for either a fault-based or a no-fault divorce. Fault-based grounds include adultery, cruelty, or abandonment, while a no-fault divorce typically cites insupportability, meaning that the marriage has become unsustainable due to conflict or discord.
The Bourlon Law Firm in Corpus Christi is experienced in handling both contested and uncontested divorces. In uncontested divorces, both parties agree on major issues such as property division and child custody. Contested divorces, however, require more negotiation and often court intervention. A skilled attorney from the Bourlon Law Firm can advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your interests are protected throughout the process.
Child Custody and Visitation
Child custody battles can be one of the most stressful aspects of divorce or separation. Texas courts focus on the “best interest of the child” when determining custody arrangements. This may involve examining various factors, such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the emotional and physical needs of the child, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.
There are two types of custody in Texas: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including education, health care, and religious instruction. Physical custody pertains to where the child will primarily reside. Courts often encourage joint custody arrangements to allow both parents to maintain an active role in the child’s life, but each case is unique, and outcomes vary based on the specifics of the situation.
The family law attorneys at Bourlon Law Firm are experienced in negotiating and litigating child custody matters. They can work with you to establish or modify custody arrangements that are in the best interest of your child while also respecting your parental rights.
Child Support and Enforcement
In Texas, child support is determined based on a standardized formula that takes into account each parent’s income and the number of children involved. The non-custodial parent is typically required to make monthly payments to support the child’s financial needs, including education, medical care, and basic living expenses.
However, child support disputes may arise when one parent fails to meet their obligations or when significant changes in circumstances require a modification of the support order. The Bourlon Law Firm can assist in both establishing and enforcing child support orders. If you are seeking to modify an existing order due to changes in income, employment, or the needs of your child, their legal team can guide you through the necessary steps.
Adoption and Guardianship
Adopting a child is one of the most rewarding legal processes available to families, but it can also be complicated. Whether you are adopting through a private agency, relative adoption, or foster care system, it is important to have a legal advocate who can help you navigate the extensive requirements involved. Bourlon Law Firm can assist with the paperwork, hearings, and background checks necessary to complete an adoption, ensuring that all legal standards are met.
For those seeking to become legal guardians of a child, the process is similarly involved. Guardianship grants an individual the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of a minor or incapacitated adult. The attorneys at Bourlon Law Firm can guide you through this process, advocating for your rights and the best interests of the child or adult under your care.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
Unfortunately, domestic violence is a reality for many families in Texas. If you are experiencing abuse or fear for your safety, it is critical to seek immediate legal protection. A protective order, also known as a restraining order, can prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching you. Violating this order can result in criminal charges against the offender.
The compassionate attorneys at Bourlon Law Firm take domestic violence cases seriously. They can assist you in filing for a protective order and ensure that your rights and safety are upheld. If you have been wrongfully accused of domestic violence, their legal team can also provide a strong defense.
Child Protection Services (CPS) Cases
When Child Protection Services (CPS) becomes involved in your family’s life, it can be a frightening experience. CPS investigates allegations of child abuse or neglect, and the consequences of their findings can be severe, including the removal of children from their homes. If you are facing a CPS investigation, it is crucial to have experienced legal representation to protect your parental rights.
Bourlon Law Firm has extensive experience handling CPS cases in Corpus Christi. They will work diligently to protect your family, ensure that your voice is heard, and help you navigate the legal complexities of dealing with CPS investigations.
Why Choose Bourlon Law Firm?
The attorneys at Bourlon Law Firm have years of experience helping families in Corpus Christi navigate the complexities of family law. They provide personalized, compassionate legal representation and are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for their clients. Whether you are facing a divorce, child custody battle, or adoption process, their legal team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Family law cases are often emotionally charged, but with the right legal support, you can protect your rights and the well-being of your family. Contact Bourlon Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how they can assist you with your family law needs in Corpus Christi.