Legal Advice From Your Trusted Austin, TX, Family Lawyer
We don’t expect to need court intervention in personal, private family matters, but it becomes unavoidable in some cases, like a divorce or disputed child custody. Many family relationships also have legal obligations, and when these relationships change, the legal obligations do so, as well. Our Austin, TX family lawyer can help protect your privacy and rights in family law matters and work toward a solution that benefits you and meets your needs.
Whether you want to file for divorce, need help getting child support from the child’s other parent, have a question about grandparent’s rights, or are fleeing a domestic violence situation, we can explain your legal options and give you the advocacy you need to improve your family situation. Contact Gray Becker, P.C. today for a consultation.
We Offer A Wide Range Of Family Law Services
Our Texas family law attorneys represent clients like you in a variety of different cases. We tailor our advice to your needs and may be able to help you come up with a solution you haven’t thought of. From preparing for court appearances to speaking for you in mediation, we are ready to fight hard to ensure your needs are met. Our deep knowledge of Texas family law statutes and case law, coupled with our familiarity with local courts through our decades of family law practice, make us uniquely qualified to help with matters concerning:
- Divorce and separation. Although Texas does not have a legal separation (you’re either legally married or legally divorced), we can help you with temporary orders to facilitate a more livable arrangement while the divorce proceeds, like child custody or who has possession of the family home.
- Annulment. Sometimes, we can un-do a marriage, making it so that legally, it never occurred. We’ll help you explore the different grounds for annulment in Texas.
- Child custody and support. Although there are “standard” custody arrangements in Texas, they may not work for your family. We can help develop a workable shared custody arrangement with the child’s other parent or help you file a petition for supervised visitation if you believe that your child isn’t safe with the other parent.
- Spousal support. If you believe you should receive alimony or if your soon-to-be ex is requesting alimony and you don’t believe you should have to pay it, we can help you present your petition to the judge the right way, advocating for your position in court or mediation.
- Grandparents’ rights. Although grandparents don’t have a legal right to visitation in Texas, there are occasions when a grandparent may receive custody of the child.
- Adoption. When you’re ready to expand your family, we can help you with infant adoption, stepchild adoption, or foster child adoption.
- Domestic violence. If you are being abused, we want to help you. Texas courts take domestic violence very seriously, and we can help you petition for the fullest protections under the law.
Contact Us Today
Family law matters can quickly become emotional and overwhelming. Let our Austin family lawyer help you sort through contention and arguments and develop a legal solution to your family law matter that protects your rights, safeguards your family, and helps you rebuild your life. Call Gray Becker, P.C. today for a consultation.
What To Do If A Parent Fails To Pay Child Support
If you are facing a situation where a parent has failed to pay child support, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what steps to take. Our experienced Austin, TX family lawyer understands the frustration that comes with not receiving the financial support you are entitled to. At Gray Becker, P.C., we are known throughout Central Texas as dedicated, compassionate divorce lawyers. We are committed to helping parents resolve child support issues and make sure that children receive the support they need.
When a parent refuses to pay child support, it can cause significant hardship, especially if you rely on that income to cover essential expenses for your children. There are several actions you can take to address this issue.
Contact The Child Support Enforcement Agency
The first step in addressing unpaid child support is to reach out to your local child support enforcement agency. In Texas, the Office of the Attorney General’s Child Support Division handles the enforcement of child support orders. The agency has various tools available to collect unpaid support, including wage garnishment, withholding tax refunds, and even suspending the parent’s driver’s or professional license.
Seek Legal Action Through The Court System
If child support payments remain unpaid despite enforcement efforts, it may be time to seek legal action through the court system. Our Austin family lawyers can help you file a motion for contempt, which is a legal procedure used to hold the non-paying parent accountable for not meeting their child support obligations. This motion is filed with the court, and the judge can issue penalties or sanctions against the non-paying parent, such as fines or even jail time in extreme cases.
In some situations, our family law lawyers may also help you petition for a modification of the child support order if your circumstances have changed or if you are dealing with significant difficulties in collecting the payment.
Modify The Child Support Order
If the non-paying parent’s financial situation has changed (for example, they have lost their job or experienced a significant reduction in income), it may be necessary to modify the existing child support order. Our marriage lawyers can help you petition for a modification, adjusting the child support payments based on the parent’s current ability to pay.
Pursue Criminal Charges If Necessary
In extreme cases, if the non-paying parent’s failure to pay child support is willful and consistent, or if the parent has distanced themselves to avoid payment, criminal charges may be pursued. In Texas, non-payment of child support for six months or more can result in felony charges. If you find yourself in this situation, it is essential to consult with our Austin family lawyers to understand your options and determine if criminal charges should be pursued.
What You Should Do Next
If you are dealing with unpaid child support, Gray Becker, P.C. is here to guide you through the process and help you take the necessary steps to make sure your child receives the financial support they need. Our team of family mediators has tried hundreds of cases in federal and state court, and we are ready to assist you in pursuing the best possible outcome for your family. Reach out to us today for a consultation. We can help you explore your options and take the appropriate steps to resolve the issue.
7 Reasons To Hire A Family Lawyer For Your Divorce
Divorce is a major legal process that affects your future, finances, and family. Having the right legal representation can make a significant difference. Our Austin, TX family lawyer law firm helps our clients protect their rights and make informed decisions. Here are seven reasons why hiring a family lawyer is often a smart choice for people who are separating or divorcing:
Legal Knowledge and Guidance
Divorce laws vary by state, and understanding them is crucial. It is important to enlist the help of a lawyer who is licensed in the state where your divorce will be taking place. A family lawyer provides clear legal advice based on current laws and precedents. We help you understand your rights and responsibilities so you can make informed choices.
Protecting Your Interests in Property Division
Dividing assets and debts is one of the most challenging aspects of divorce. A lawyer ensures that your financial interests are represented, whether it involves real estate, retirement accounts, or business assets. We work to achieve a fair division based on legal principles and your specific circumstances.
Child Custody and Support Agreements
When children are involved, custody and support agreements are critical. A family lawyer helps establish a custody arrangement that aligns with your child’s best interests. We also ensure that child support calculations are accurate and enforceable.
Handling Spousal Support Issues
Spousal support, or alimony, is a key factor in many divorces. A lawyer helps determine whether spousal support is applicable, how much should be paid, and for how long. Having legal representation prevents unfair financial burdens or inadequate support.
Managing Paperwork and Deadlines
Divorce requires a significant amount of documentation. Filing paperwork correctly and meeting deadlines is essential to avoid delays or legal issues. A lawyer ensures that all documents are properly completed and submitted on time. Many people get frustrated over the length of time it takes to get a divorce and having a good Austin family lawyer on your side can help to make this process more efficient.
Reducing Conflict and Stress
Emotions often run high during divorce. A family lawyer acts as a neutral party who focuses on facts and legal matters. We handle negotiations and communication with the other party, reducing unnecessary disputes and stress.
Representation in Court if Needed
While many divorces settle outside of court, some require litigation. A lawyer represents you during hearings or trials, presenting your case effectively. Having legal support improves your chances of a favorable outcome in court proceedings.
We have been helping people for over 40 years, and our lawyers are the recipients of many awards and recognitions. Hiring a good family lawyer can provide peace of mind, knowing that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
If you are considering divorce, contact Gray Becker, P.C. today. Our team is ready to assist with your case. Speak with an Austin family lawyer to discuss your options and take the next step toward resolution.
8 Things To Look For In A Family Law Lawyer
When you think you need an Austin, TX family law lawyer, it’s important to find someone who fits your needs and understands the legal and other challenges you’re facing. Whether dealing with divorce, child custody, or support matters, hiring the right attorney can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome. The following are seven key factors to consider when selecting a family law attorney.
- Experience in Family Law Cases
Not all attorneys handle family law regularly. It’s essential to work with a lawyer who has handled similar cases before. Our firm has been helping people since 1983. We started off with a focus on government litigation and constitutional law and soon began expanding our practice areas to include family and many other areas of law. This kind of background provides valuable insight into different aspects of legal disputes such as dividing jointly owned businesses and rental properties, etc. - A Track Record of Successful Outcomes
Results matter. While past outcomes don’t guarantee future success, reviewing a lawyer’s history with cases similar to yours can help you decide if they’re the right fit. Ask about their experience with child custody agreements, asset division, and alimony settlements. - Strong Communication Skills
Legal matters can be stressful, so clear and consistent communication is crucial. A good attorney will keep you informed, explain legal terms in plain language, and be available when you have questions. If an attorney is difficult to reach or doesn’t provide timely updates, it may be best to look elsewhere. You should feel comfortable with your lawyer’s communication style. - Honest and Practical Legal Advice
A great attorney doesn’t just tell clients what they want to hear. They provide realistic expectations and practical legal guidance. Look for someone who will be upfront about potential outcomes and legal strategies instead of making promises they can’t keep. - Understanding Of All Areas Of Law That Pertain To Your Case If your case involves business interests, such as dividing assets in a divorce, you’ll need an attorney with experience in both areas of law. An Austin family law lawyer who understand business structures, property division, and financial agreements can provide comprehensive representation.
- Negotiation and Litigation Skills
Many family law cases are settled through negotiation, but some require litigation. The attorney you choose should be skilled in both areas, ready to negotiate favorable terms, and prepared to fight for you in court if necessary. - Availability
It is important to find out if a potential lawyer has availability to take on new cases. Once you have established this, it is important to find out how available they will be to you while working on your legal issues. Some lawyers will initially speak with a potential or new client but after this, communicate through paralegals or other staff from their law firm. If you want to know who you will be on contact with throughout your case, be sure to find out if this in advance of hiring a lawyer. - A Good Reputation and Client Reviews
Reputation speaks volumes. Research online reviews, ask for referrals, and check testimonials to see what past clients say about their experience. A lawyer with a strong reputation in the community is more likely to handle your case with professionalism and dedication.
We Are Here For You
Finding the right legal representation can make all the difference in your case. At Gray Becker, P.C., we are committed to providing sound legal counsel tailored to your needs. If you need an Austin family law lawyer who understands all areas of family law plus many more and one who will work tirelessly to protect your interests, contact us today to schedule a consultation.