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

Postnuptial agreements, often referred to as “postnups,” are legal documents designed to outline the division of assets, liabilities, and other financial matters between spouses in the event of divorce or death. In Texas, like in many other states, postnuptial agreements provide a valuable tool for couples to clarify their financial rights and responsibilities during marriage—and address potential issues that may arise in the future (i.e., what happens if the parties divorce). To best protect their interests, understanding what is required for a postnuptial agreement in Texas is essential for ..read more

Partner Jacob Jeffries ranked among state’s top 100 up-and-coming attorneys  DALLAS – Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP (ONDA) is pleased to announce that four of the firm’s family lawyers have earned placement on the list of Texas Rising Stars for 2024, an exclusive listing from Thomson Reuters and Super Lawyers that honors only 2.5% of eligible lawyers in the state each year.  Honorees include partner Jacob Jeffries, who was also selected among the top 100 Up-and-Coming lawyers in Texas regardless of practice area. Mr. Jeffries focuses on unique litigation matters that ..read more

The question of whether fathers are treated equally in Texas child custody cases is one that resonates deeply within families undergoing the challenging process of a divorce or separation. Texas, like many states, has evolved in its approach to child custody laws to aim for arrangements that best serve the child’s interests—rather than adhering to outdated gender biases. This article delves into the current legal framework in Texas regarding child custody and explores the extent to which fathers are accorded equal treatment in these matters. Understanding Child Custody Laws in Texas In Texas ..read more

Alimony, called “spousal support” or “spousal maintenance” in Texas when ordered by a court, is financial assistance one spouse may be required to pay the other following a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to offer additional income to a spouse who might struggle to provide for their needs following divorce. Texas law outlines specific criteria and considerations for determining the amount and duration of spousal support payments. We will discuss the intricacies of how these determinations are made, focusing on the legal framework and judicial discretion involved in Texas. Eligibility C ..read more

Divorce is one of the most difficult and emotionally charged legal matters to go through. Divorce involves contentious disputes over property, finances, and child custody—and the outcome of a divorce case can have the effect of significantly changing one’s life. While litigation is often seen as the default for resolving these issues, more divorcing couples in Texas are turning to mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method. Mediation offers numerous advantages, making it a viable option for virtually every divorcing couple in the Lone Star State. This guide will discuss why every di ..read more

Melissa Cowle, Chris Lambert latest to achieve specialization milestone DALLAS – Family law firm Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP (ONDA) congratulates attorneys Melissa Cowle and Chris Lambert for earning Family Law Board Certifications from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Each of the firm’s eligible attorneys is now Board Certified in Family Law, a distinction earned by less than 1% of Texas attorneys. Board Certification requires continuing legal education, a passing score on the certification exam and other experience-related milestones. “This is an important accomplis ..read more

Texas stands out for its unique approach to dividing assets during divorce. Unlike many states that follow the equitable distribution model, Texas adheres to community property principles, which significantly shape the financial outcomes of divorce proceedings. At the heart of asset division in Texas are two fundamental concepts: community property and separate property. Community property generally includes any assets and debts acquired by either spouse during the marriage. In contrast, separate property consists of assets acquired before the marriage, by gifts, and inheritances received by o ..read more

New partner position adds to firm’s Frisco office leadership DALLAS – Dallas-based Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP (ONDA) has promoted family lawyer Jacob Jeffries to partner, a transition that bolsters the firm’s Frisco office, effective January 2024. “Jacob is a true leader within the firm and has demonstrated a strong commitment to his clients and his practice,” said managing partner Scott Downing. “He has a very technical mind, and our entire team has benefitted from his expertise since he joined the firm. We are very fortunate to have him in our corner.” Board certified in F ..read more

Divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process, and in Texas, it involves navigating a unique set of laws and principles—particularly concerning property division. The Lone Star State adheres to what are known as ‘community property’ laws. This concept can be markedly different from the ‘equitable distribution’ model followed by many other states, necessitating a clear understanding for anyone undergoing a divorce in Texas. Property division, in a Texas divorce, goes beyond the mere division of assets; it encompasses a fair distribution of all assets and debts acquired by either party du ..read more