Divorce, a significant and formative event, can disrupt the lives of not only the spouses but also their wider families. By recognizing the signs of an impending divorce, individuals can take proactive steps to prepare emotionally and legally for the journey ahead. These signs, often subtle, can hint at potential marital discord that may lead to separation. Understanding these signs is key to empowering individuals to seek the advice of experienced divorce lawyers and take control of their situation. Key Signs of an Impending Divorce 1. Communication Breakdown – One of the most glaring signs o ..read more

Legal guide recognizes nation’s outstanding young attorneys  DALLAS – Four Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP (ONDA) attorneys have earned placement on Lawdragon’s 500 X – The Next Generation, a global legal guide that recognizes what the publication describes as the “future leaders of the law.”  “It is a great honor to see these talented lawyers recognized in this way,” said managing partner Scott Downing. “Each of them deserves this, and we are very proud to have all four of them on our team.”  Among the four is partner Jacob Jeffries, who handles appellate matters ..read more

When family dynamics shift dramatically, grandparents often step in to provide a crucial role of stability and care for their grandchildren. In Texas, as in many other states, there are specific circumstances under which grandparents can seek legal custody of their grandchildren. Understanding these reasons is not just important, but it underscores the vital role grandparents play in ensuring the best interest of their grandchild. Unfit Parental Environment One of the primary reasons grandparents can file for custody is if the child’s current living environment is deemed unfit. This could be d ..read more

In Texas, inheritances are generally regarded as separate property under the state’s family law statutes. In general, separate property cannot be divided in a divorce. According to the Texas Family Code, separate property includes anything one spouse owned before marriage or acquired during the marriage as a gift, through inheritance, or by personal injury settlement, with certain exceptions. This definition aims to distinguish personal assets from those accrued jointly during the marriage, known as community property. However, distinguishing between separate and marital assets can become comp ..read more

Texas is, indeed, a community property state. This has specific implications for how property is divided in the event of a divorce. Understanding the laws that govern property division in Texas can empower you to navigate your divorce with a clearer perspective on what to expect regarding asset distribution. In community property states like Texas, most property acquired during the marriage is considered jointly owned by both spouses and is, therefore, subject to division upon divorce. Under Texas law, community property includes all earnings from the employment of either spouse during the mar ..read more

Orsinger Nelson Downing & Anderson is pleased to announce that the firm’s own family lawyer Chris Konneker was recently published by Law360. His article titled, How Attys Can Avoid Pitfalls When Withdrawing From A Case, serves as a guide to help make the withdrawal process as smooth as possible, describing the complexities and considerations attorneys face when filing a motion to withdraw from representing a client. “Just as there are many reasons why an attorney files a motion to withdraw, there are several pitfalls an unsuspecting attorney may stumble upon when trying to officially be re ..read more

In the Lone Star State, spousal support, also known as spousal maintenance, can be quite a contentious issue in divorce proceedings. This financial support is sometimes provided by one spouse to the other after the dissolution of their marriage, either by agreement or court order. However, it is essential to understand that there are limits to spousal support orders in Texas, governed by specific laws and regulations. Factors Considered In Determining Spousal Support The Texas Family Code outlines the factors that courts shall consider when determining spousal support. These factors include th ..read more

Divorce can be one of life’s toughest challenges. It involves a unique mix of legal, financial, and personal issues, all while trying to understand the complex laws surrounding divorce in Texas. Many (most) people find themselves lost in a maze of legal jargon, unsure of how to navigate it all. That’s why it’s important to discuss some of those lesser-known aspects of Texas divorce laws that could make a big difference for anyone going through a divorce. Let’s discuss a few of these items for those facing the ups and downs of divorce in the Lone Star State. The No-Fault Grounds For Divorce In ..read more

Selection spotlights firm’s family law expertise  DALLAS – Four partners at Dallas-based Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson (ONDA) have earned placement in D Magazine’s 2024 edition of the Best Lawyers in Dallas.   Earning repeat recognition for family law expertise are Keith Nelson, Scott Downing, Jeff Anderson and Brad LaMorgese.  Founding partner Mr. Nelson focuses much of his practice on addressing the psychological impact of custody and divorce litigation on children and their parents. He also has been named to D CEO’s Dallas 500, a distinguished listing of the m ..read more

Child support is a major aspect of family law cases in Texas, providing financial assistance to “custodial” parents for the care and upbringing of their children. However, determining when child support ends can be a complex matter governed by state law and factors unique to each case. Understanding the rules and regulations surrounding the termination of child support obligations in Texas is essential for both parents to ensure compliance with the law and avoid potential legal issues. Child Support In Texas In Texas, child support often ends when the child reaches the age of majority, which i ..read more