Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process that has become a requirement in most family law cases. A mediator is a neutral third-party who helps facilitate the settlement negotiations between the parties. Generally, one party and that party’s attorney stay in one room; the other party and that party’s attorney stay in another room; and the mediator goes between the rooms. The parties can conclude the mediation with a Mediated Settlement Agreement (“MSA”). This is…

In Texas, if your child is under the age of three, there is no presumed possession schedule that is in the child’s best interest. The standard possession order set forth in the Texas Family Code that is often discussed is the presumed possession schedule once a child is three-years-old or older. What does that mean for you as the parent? If the parents agree on the possession schedule, the Court will most likely approve and adopt…

Most of the country is under a lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic. A lot of people are out of work, barely making ends meet, and are struggling to collect unemployment. There was a great relief when the President announced that every tax-paying citizen would receive a stimulus check in this time of crisis. However, with that sigh of relief, some of us also received potentially heartbreaking news – we may not receive a stimulus…

In the context of a custody case, drug tests are court-ordered to protect the safety and well-being of the child or children the subject of the suit. The need or requirement for drug testing doesn’t change just because there is a pandemic. Yes, you or someone you know can currently submit to a drug test even though there are stay-at-home orders in effect. There are testing facilities that are still open, practicing social distancing and…

Yes, I know we are all still worried about homeschooling, homecooking, and home cleaning while we are social-distancing and staying at home to avoid the Covid corona virus. However, April 15th is an important day for primary parents if you are operating under the Texas Standard Possession Schedule. In Texas April 15th is a deadline for primary conservators to designate their summer weekend possession time with the children. In a Texas Standard Possession Order, the…