June 19, 2019

Four Positive Circumstances When Family Law Attorney Services May Be Used

Check out some positive circumstances in which family law attorney services may help you and your family.

Hiring a lawyer can be a stressful event. After all, Texas alone has over 70,000 lawyers licensed to practice law. Unfortunately, most people only need lawyers on during their worst days, whether they are going through divorce, bankruptcy, child custody, or criminal defense. But what about the good days? Although a "family law attorney" is often synonymous with "child custody lawyer" or "divorce lawyer," family law attorney services may also be needed for more positive events, too. Here are four positive circumstances where family law attorney services may help:

Name Changes

Name changes are governed by statute in most states, including Texas. Certain kinds of name changes, such as a name change in an adoption or a divorce, can be filed as part of the underlying proceeding. Other types of name changes, such as a name change following a marriage, can usually be handled through a filing with a court clerk. Other name changes may be more involved and may require a person to file a petition requesting the name change and appear at a court hearing. Some people find that hiring a family lawyer to prepare the filings and track any necessary court appearances will make the process much easier.

Prenuptial Agreements

Most states, including Texas, have laws that allow prenuptial agreements. A prenuptial agreement is a contract that is entered into prior to a marriage that defines the division of property in the event that the married couple ever divorces. While a prenuptial agreement may sound scary, it is often best to discuss whose property is whose while the couple is in the most positive mindset.

But prenuptial agreements have other benefits, too. In the event that an agreement cannot be worked out between a couple, both parties then have the opportunity to work on their disagreements before getting married. Family law attorney services include negotiating and drafting prenuptial agreements, as well as making sure prenuptial agreements are valid under applicable state statutes.

Adoption

Each state has different laws governing adoption. These laws often include requirements that the adopting parent must meet prior to adopting a child. These requirements can include preparing an adoption petition, submitting to an adoption evaluation, and attending court hearings. These laws also govern the situation when a child is adopted from another state or foreign country. Although adoptions can take time and effort to complete, a family law office can assist in the adoption and help keep the process moving forward.

Surrogacy

Adoption is not the only way for parents to have a child. In the event that a couple chooses to have a surrogate mother to carry their child, family law attorney services include negotiating and drafting surrogacy agreements. A surrogacy agreement is a contract that sets out the arrangement between a couple and the surrogate mother. Most states, including Texas, have laws that define the qualifications and duties for the surrogate mother, the types and form of compensation that can be paid to the surrogate mother, and the process for establishing the couple's parental rights. Because of the complicated set of laws that govern surrogacy, both the couple and the surrogate mother should consider a family law attorney to assist in navigating the surrogacy process.

Rather than dreading the circumstances that triggered the hiring of a family lawyer, these are the circumstances that can be viewed positively. For more information, rely on the experience of White Legal Group today.

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Preparing for Mediation: What to Expect and How to Succeed

By Analytics Import • May 29, 2025

Mediation offers an alternative to traditional litigation, providing parties with a chance for resolution without the need for a courtroom battle. Understanding what to expect during mediation and preparing adequately is crucial for anyone seeking a successful outcome. This process involves a neutral third party who assists in negotiating a mutually agreeable solution between the parties involved. Whether you are working independently or through a divorce lawyer, getting ready for mediation requires a strategic approach and a clear understanding of your own goals and those of the opposing party. Understanding the Mediation Process with a Divorce Lawyer The mediation process often begins with each party providing an opening statement, outlining their position and goals. It is essential to prepare these statements ahead of time, focusing on facts and desired outcomes rather than emotions or confrontational language. A well-prepared statement can set the tone for a productive session and open the door for constructive dialogue. A divorce lawyer can assist in crafting a statement that is clear, persuasive, and aligned with your best interests. Remember that the goal of mediation is not to "win" but to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement that addresses the concerns of both parties. Exploring Possible Solutions During Mediation Throughout the mediation, the mediator plays a pivotal role in guiding discussions, identifying potential solutions, and helping manage emotions. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a good mediator typically has a success rate of at least 75% in pretrial disputes. This impressive statistic underscores the importance of choosing a qualified mediator who can facilitate effective negotiations. Working with a divorce lawyer during this stage ensures your rights and priorities are properly represented, helping you navigate complex issues like parenting arrangements or property division with clarity. Why Flexibility Matters in Mediation Another key element to successful mediation is flexibility. Being open to alternative solutions and remaining adaptable to new ideas can lead to more efficient problem-solving. It's vital to enter mediation with a clear understanding of your bottom line, but also a willingness to make reasonable concessions. A skilled divorce lawyer can help you define those boundaries and adjust your approach as discussions unfold. Flexibility can often mean the difference between resolution and an impasse, paving a path toward a settlement that meets the needs of all parties involved. Preparing for Mediation with Expert Legal Guidance Preparing for mediation requires a combination of strategic planning, effective communication, and an open mind. By focusing on facts, seeking a skilled mediator, and remaining adaptable, you increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Mediation presents an opportunity to resolve disputes amicably, efficiently, and often with a high success rate, benefiting all parties by avoiding the stress and expense of litigation. Ready to approach mediation with confidence? Contact the Law Office of Arthur J. White III, P.C. for experienced legal guidance that helps you prepare, communicate effectively, and achieve the best possible resolution.