Child Custody in Texas

Last week we talked about the hardships of divorce, especially when children are involved. We also discussed a little bit about child custody laws. The state of Texas recognizes two main categories of child custody, legal and physical and with assigned to two sub-categories, sole and joint.

Types of Child Custody

While Texas courts have options when issuing a custody order, joint custody is what they favor. According to Divorce Source, “the courts favor granting both parents access to the child absent parental misconduct, such as neglect, domestic violence or abuse. Shared custody means both parents share in all aspects of a child’s upbringing. Both parents make medical decisions, and both parents can sign medical release forms and have access to the child’s medical records. Both parents may also be apprised of all aspects of the child’s education.” It is also in the best interest of the child if the home environment of both parents is a positive one which is described in Texas Family Code Section 154.004; you can read more at Divorce Source.

We mentioned the two main categories of child custody, legal and physical. The difference between the two is that legal custody has more to do with the rights and responsibilities of the parent as opposed to the physical aspect of where the child will reside. The parent that has legal custody makes overall welfare decisions such as medical and healthcare decisions, education, and even decisions on religious practices. When parents share joint legal custody or joint conservatorship, they share custody in all aspects of the child’s life. Joint physical custody is when the child splits their time living with both parents. When one parent makes key decisions for the child and has physical custody of the child, they have sole conservatorship. The other parent may have visitation rights, but that does not give them custodial rights.

Edmondson Law, PLLC- Family Law Attorney

These are just a few guidelines to help you better understand custody in Texas. But the best way is to seek help from a professional attorney that has experience in child custody. The team at Edmondson Law, PLLC is here to answer your questions and help guide you in this challenging time. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation by calling 972-442-8326. We are here to fight for you.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Understanding Child Custody Laws

Divorce is never easy, but it can be even more difficult when there are children involved. So the thought of child custody can be sad to think about or daunting. One thing to remember is after your divorce; you will still be parents together. So deciding on what is best for the child will make their lives and you and your ex’s lives better. You need to remember that not every family goes through hurtful custody battles. It is possible to come out of your divorce with an agreement you both are happy with. Most states prefer divorcing parents to come to an agreement on their own. Understanding child custody law can make your situation less challenging but at the same time overwhelming. If you don’t know much about these complex laws, it could hurt you in your decision making.  

What You Need to Know

First off, child custody laws and terminology vary by state. It is beneficial for you to get to know and understand the child custody laws in your state. You should also know if your state takes into account both legal and physical custody, as well as, sole and joint custody. We’ll touch more on that next week.

Legal custody of a child means the parent (with legal custody) has the right to make big decisions that will benefit the child’s wellbeing, such as, the child’s schooling, medical and healthcare decisions. Physical custody designates the child’s living arrangements and, if custody is to be shared, how much time they will spend in the physical care of each parent. In a majority of states, family courts prefer for divorcing parent to come up with an agreement on their own with the help from mediation. This decision can be beneficial for the parents and child by taking part in the decision. This can also help both parents save money by staying out of court.

Family Law Attorneys in Wylie

Working with a family law professional and discussing your situation can help them apply their knowledge and offer guidance. Finding a parenting arrangement that is in the best interest for your child will be one of the biggest decisions you will have to make. You need a team of professionals in your corner if you are having a difficult time agreeing with your ex. The team at Edmondson Law, PLLC will represent you and your needs in this grueling time. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation by calling 972-442-8326. We are here to fight for you.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Edmondson Law, PLLC. – LawGuru

LawGuru.com is a place where you can get legal advice from a real lawyer online. Users ask a free question, which becomes public, and get answered by attorneys that practice in that area of the law and location you are in within a few days. If users are in a hurry and need to ask personal or private questions, they can use the paid service and have the opportunity to ask follow up questions. Users can also search for past questions and answers, by state, area of law, and keywords, in the database.

LawGuru started over 20 years ago with the idea of providing simple legal information and has over 8,000 attorneys ready to offer their services. The company consists of attorneys, software engineers, programmers and designer, and customer service representatives.

Keep in mind, the information found on the site doesn’t replace a face-to-face meeting or phone conversation with a “real live” attorney. The information on LawGuru is a starting point to help you with your situation. Another thing is the attorneys that participate in LawGuru Answers are not affiliated with, employed by or agents of LawGuru.com. The site cannot guarantee the qualifications of any attorneys who participate. That is why it is important to do your own research when deciding to hire an attorney.

Edmondson Law, PLLC.

Edmondson Law, PLLC is a part of LawGuru practicing in a range of areas such as criminal law, business law, probate, trust, wills, and estates. Check him out at www.lawguru.com. If you are looking to speak with Mr. Edmondson or his staff personally, contact them by calling 972-442-8326 and schedule a free consultation to discuss your situation.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing

Reasons to Review Your Will

Some people can go several years without reviewing their wills. They might think that once they’ve drafted a will that’s it, others may get busy and not really think about it. It’s easy to forget because many people put it in a safe at home or a safe deposit box. As the saying goes, “Out of sight, out of mind.” But keeping something so important out of mind could cost you. Life happens and could require you to review your will and update it. A new marriage, divorce, you might have come into a whole lot of cash, or maybe had a child.

Whatever reason, below is a list of a few more possible life changes that will require you to update your will to be sure your wishes are met after your passing.

 

• A change in your relationship.
• You move to a different state.
• You’ve come into some money.
• You move.
• Your spouse passes away.
• Your children reach legal age.
• You want to name new people or take someone out.
• You want to add a charity.
• Assets change.
• Tax laws change.
• You start a business.
• If you fall ill.

 

It is important to review your will every three to five years and when big milestones occur in your life. Your will is a valuable tool that facilitates the transfer of your assets. Keep in mind; you can’t alter your will by simply marking something out or adding something new.

Experienced Estate Planning Attorney

It is a good idea to visit your attorney or tax advisor for help in updating your will. But if you currently do not have a will, it is time to make an appointment with an experienced attorney to help you and your family get started. Contact Edmondson Law, PLLC at 972-442-8326 to advise you in properly drafting a will.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

A Final Will and Testament

Many people may not put much thought into the importance of having a last will and testament. Some think they have plenty of time or can wait till they get older in age. The truth is there is no certainty in life, and you could pass at a younger age than you imagined. Accidents happen, and illnesses don’t have a specific age preference. A last will and testament are not legally required, but without one the state will determine the distribution of your assets. You may have a plan in mind, but it won’t make a difference unless you legally document it. Keep in mind, if you don’t, the court’s rule may not coincide with your wishes. Another problem is it could be a burden on your family and cause a rift as family members begin to argue over possessions or what they think your wishes would have been. More than likely this is not what you want for your family.

As a young adult, you might think you don’t have much in the way of assets. But it is possible you may have a savings account, antiques, a vehicle. This can include digital assets such as music, photos, PayPal accounts. Even though this may not seem like much, it is a good start. You can always revise your will and add assets and beneficiaries throughout your life. Deciding what age you want to start writing a will is up to you, but in the long run, you won’t regret starting early.  

One benefit, other than the obvious, is you can name an executor to your estate. This person will be in charge of carrying out your wishes, giving you peace of mind knowing your family will be okay. Another great thing is you can choose a guardian to care for your minor children, and the state of Texas allows the creation of a trust for the care of pets, called a pet trust. Another thing to keep in mind is having a valid will can make the probate process go smoothly. In the state of Texas, there are a few requirements that must be recognized to be a valid will, such as, age, mental capacity, and witnesses. Speak with an experienced Estate Planning and Probate attorney for more information or any questions you have. Even though you have expressed your wishes to your family verbally or you assume they automatically know what you what, it is in your best interest to have a will in place.

Estate Planning Attorney in Wylie

You can’t go wrong by putting your family first. You’ve worked hard for what you have, and you want to leave it to your loved ones. The reality is your family will be going through a hard time, and it is not fair to put them through any conflict that will arise in the absence of a will. Contact the attorneys at Edmondson Law, PLLC today if you have any questions about drafting a will or questions about your current will. Call our office at 972-442-8326 or visit www.wylietxlaw.com.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Adopting in Texas

Thousands of people and couples make the important decision of adopting each year. Some start out fostering then make the big decision to make it official. There is more than one type of adoption in Texas: stepparent adoptions, agency adoptions, private placement adoptions, and grandparent adoptions. Each type of adoption has its own procedures, requirements, and steps you need to take. And there is no doubt you have numerous questions about each one. Luckily, there are professionals who will help you throughout the process so that you have a successful adoption.

There is a lot that goes into adopting a child, but don’t let that discourage you from changing a child’s life. The adoption process takes time and work. Here is a brief overview of adoption in Texas. Once you have discussed with your partner, if you have one, if adoption is best for you, look for an adoption agency in Texas, such as public or private. Public agencies usually deal with children who are wards of the state and private agencies are typically run by charities and deal with children who have been brought to them by parents seeking to give up the child for adoption. You can get a list of agencies at Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. While all of this can be overwhelming, hiring a professional attorney might not be a bad decision, especially if you are thinking about adopting a family member or stepchild. An attorney can help you navigate any legal paperwork, represent you in court, if necessary, advise you about home studies, and will pay attention to all the details. After you find an agency and meet their requirements, don’t be afraid to ask any questions, such as fees, concerns, health requirements, or financial requirements.

There are a few other details needed before finalizing the adoption. Be ready to provide your caseworker with any information they request, get your home ready for inspection, and expect to undergo a background check. After all the paperwork is complete, and you have met the requirements, the finalization of the adoption can be completed. Before signing the contract, be sure you understand the document and speak with an attorney if you have any questions, choose a child, and after a few days, the adoption agency will make arrangements for you to bring your child home.   You will need to attend an adoption hearing, this is typically a simple formality; the judge will ask the adoptive parents questions under oath.

Adoption Attorneys

Adoption is a beautiful experience, but there is no doubt it can also be scary and stressful at times. Unfortunately, legal complications can arise for any reason, so it is important to take the time to ask questions and seek reliable help. The experienced family law team at Edmondson Law, PLLC is here to help you navigate the process and help you welcome your child into your home. For information on how we can assist you or your family, please contact our office at 972-442-8326.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Purpose of a Mechanic’s Lien

A mechanic’s lien exists as a way for contractors to collect money for services, labor, and materials on both personal and real property. Filing a mechanic’s lien is necessary to show property owners you mean business about getting paid for your services, and rightfully so. A mechanic’s lien isn’t just for contractors, other skilled laborers or suppliers can file. Unfortunately, this type of circumstance happen. Imagine you spend months building a new attachment to a home. All of the necessary work is done, but the owner refuses to pay the remaining balance. The obvious thing to do is sue for breach of contract, but you could file a mechanic’s lien on their property. In doing so, the information about the debt becomes public. This can affect their credit, ability to sell or refinance the property; it can even threat foreclosure. A contractor can file a lien before the project begins and remove it once the full payment is made, this is the most effective way to guarantee payment. It doesn’t matter how big or small the job is or if you provided materials, the property owner is obligated to pay in full according to the contract. When filing a lien you don’t get paid right away, but it will make it difficult for the owner to do anything with the property. In the state of Texas, a mechanics lien must be filed by a certain date depending on if you are a prime contractor, subcontractor, or supplier. So, it may be wise to send a monthly notice for each month that you performed work on the property. It takes time to process the paperwork so don’t cut it too close to your monthly deadline. Also, remember that there are special notices for specially made materials (custom made cabinets can’t be used in another home). Keep in mind that leaving a project unfinished won’t force a property owner to pay, but may actually create more legal problems.

Wylie Attorneys Here to Help

You deserve to get paid for your hard work. Laws are put in place to protect you in case property owners refuse to pay you. But if you are new to this or have questions, you will need the expertise of a Texas attorney who knows the law inside an out. The advice from a construction attorney at Edmonson Law, PLLC can keep your construction project moving. Contact Edmondson Law in Wylie by calling 972-442-8326 or visiting www.wylietxlaw.com. We are here to help you or answer any questions you may have.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Estate Planning Checklist

Whether you realize it or not, you have an estate. It may not be elaborate, but if you own a car or home, have a savings or checking account, life insurance, or personal possessions you have an estate. It comprises of everything you own, big or small. And like the millions of people earth, you want to leave everything you own to your loved ones after you die. In order to make sure your wishes are carried out you need to make a plan in advance- an estate plan.

In your estate plan, naming those you want to inherit your things can make life easier for your loved ones. Estate planning is not just about drawing up a will, but you can outline what medical treatments you want to receive if you become incapacitated, name a guardian for minor children, even name a person or persons allowed manage digital files.

Start Your Estate Plan

Getting everything in order can be overwhelming, but having a checklist can make the process run smoothly. Here is a quick overview of what you should do to start your the process of reassuring your loved ones a promising future. The first thing to do is make a full inventory of all your assets. This includes jewelry, vehicles, real estate, and other assets. Gather bank statements, make a list of insurance policies you have, mortgages, and so on. Figure out who and what you want to inherit your assets, list a trusted person to care for your minor children (if you have any), and who you want to be responsible for distributing your assets. When you’re ready to get your estate plan drafted, seek the professional help from an estate planning attorney. Bring all important documents, a list of questions, and anything else they ask you to bring to better plan your estate needs. Another important thing to remember is to update your estate plan as needed.

Plan Your Estate Now

Many people think that estate planning is for wealthy people or for those who have retired. And many put off estate planning because they think they don’t own enough. This type of thinking can leave your family to pick up the pieces when you are gone, which can become an expensive nightmare. With the help of a professional estate planning attorney, you can rest easy knowing your family will be taken care of. Contact Edmondson Law, PLLC for guidance and the peace of mind knowing your wishes will be met. Call us at 972-442-8326 or visit us at www.wylietxlaw.com to schedule a free consultation.

 

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

 

Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Small Business

Starting a small business is an exciting venture. There are thousands of successful small businesses, but there are as many more that failed. The possibility of not being successful shouldn’t keep you from following your passion, what will keep you going is playing it smart- work smarter, not harder my friend would always say. Business ownership requires a lot of hard work, but once you work out the kinks and avoid common mistakes, you will have a thriving business to pass on to your family.

Making mistakes is a part of life, but so is learning from them. Same goes with running a business. The good news is there are helpful tools and advisors you can get advice from. Here are a few mistakes some owners make that jeopardize the future of their business.

• Not planning for a future when you are no longer in the picture. This doesn’t necessarily mean after you die, but maybe when you leave the company to someone else or retire. Accidents happen, and you will want to be prepared. If you leave without a plan in place, it could be difficult for anyone else to take over, or the wrong person could step in your place. You also don’t want to leave inheritance questions or fights among your family as many owners want to leave the business to their children. Be sure everything is in order, and you have a plan laid out.
• Not choosing the right business structure can hurt. There are different options, and some can provide more protection from personal liability than others.
• Not having a business plan from the beginning. Having a plan can create a roadmap and help you set and achieve goals for your businesses success. It can lead to profitability and possible investors.

Business Law Attorneys in Wylie

As I said, you will make mistakes; there is no way around it. Some will be minor, and others will require a professional to help you with. The goal is to stay out of court, save money, and keep your business going. The attorneys at Edmondson Law, PLLC can help you avoid these and other common mistakes. They can also answer any questions you have while running your business. To get your business off to a good start, contact the offices of Edmondson Law, PLLC to help prepare you for the unexpected and avoid any legal matters in the future. Contact us at 972-442-8326 or visit us at www.wylietxlaw.com to view the services we provide.

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.

Helpful Co-Parenting Apps

Communication with your ex is essential when children are involved. But having that open dialogue may be difficult especially if you have a grim relationship with your ex. Parenting has its challenges, and you want every tool at your disposal to make things run smoothly. You may not know this, but there is a slew of apps to help you with co-parenting. There is an app for EVERYTHING, so why not one (or 3) to help you and your ex-spouse be better parents together- separately.

This genius technology has made it easier for separated parents to share the responsibility and be on the same page about their children. Babyology listed a few co-parenting apps that will help you and your ex.

• SharedCare- This simple app isn’t just great for co-parents but also other carers who are helping or involved in your children’s lives, such as grandparents. SharedCare keeps you in control of every aspect of your kids’ lives, from care arrangements, expenses (including reimbursement requests), sharing news and photos, or just keeping everyone on the same page. Key features include shared calendar, care arrangements, expense recorder, and group news feed.
• Parentship- Designed to reduce stress and focus on a shared commitment to raising children in the best way possible, Parentship helps parents better manage emotional distress or ambiguity in order to schedule, communicate and keep track of their activity and custody calendar. Key features include a customized dashboard, reminders, custom calendaring, smart profile, and digital documents.
• FamCal- Really handy for all kinds of families – not just those who are co-parenting. A shared calendar, it allows you to share dates, schedules, tasks and notes all in the same place, so everyone is in sync and organized. Key features include a family calendar, lists and tasks, and family notes.

This is a few we listed, visit Babyology for the full list or do some research of your own. There are more apps to read through and choose from; some are free or inexpensive, but well worth the fee. And most of them can be downloaded through either Apple, Android, or both.  

Wylie Family Law Attorneys

Our attorneys understand the complexities of family law in the State of Texas. We have years of experience, and you can expect exceptional personal service from our law office. Contact us if you are experiencing a family law matter and schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Please call us at 972-442-8326.

 

Information, Not Legal Advice. We provide the information on this website as a public service. The legal landscape is constantly changing and being modified by state law and case law. As a result, we cannot promise that this information is always up-to-date and reflective of the most current jurisprudence.

We do not intend this information to be legal advice. By providing this information, we are not acting as your lawyer. If you need legal advice, you should contact a lawyer through our number (972) 442-8326 or contact another attorney of your choosing.