October 29, 2020

Three Issues A Family Law Attorney Can Help With -- Besides Divorce

If you're lucky, you'll never need a family law attorney; this is what a lot of us tend to think about that particular field of law. The issue with family law is that a lot of people associate it with a particularly toxic, personal kind of court battle that nobody wants to be involved with. Most prominently, family law attorneys are associated with divorce. And while divorce is certainly something that makes up a large part of the cases that these types of lawyers deal with, it's certainly not the only reason why you would visit an attorney that practices family law. With that being said, let's look into the different types of cases that you would turn to this type of lawyer for help with.

1. Child Custody Agreements

Child custody is really an issue that doesn't always have to do with divorce. Though divorce lawyers typically help their clients deal with child custody issues, you certainly don't have to be married, or even in a long-term relationship with someone, in order to have children with them. Child custody issues are sometimes even handled before a child is born, due to the parents being separated during the pregnancy. Furthermore, child custody issues may not involve parents at all, but rather guardians after a child is removed from their biological parents' custody. A good family law attorney can not only help parents or guardians determine initial child custody agreements but also amended agreements after alterations are needed. Child custody is a tricky issue, and can certainly be subject to strong emotions. It's important to have an experienced attorney at your side when you're attempting to determine child custody.

2. Prenuptial Agreements

What is a prenuptial agreement? Well, the topic remains a bit controversial among some, but it's really something that everyone should consider before getting married, especially if they are entering a marriage with considerable assets. A prenuptial agreement is a contract that both parties legally agree to prior to a marriage or civil union. It dictates how assets and other provisions will be allocated in the event of a divorce or breakup and essentially is meant to protect both parties and furthermore avoid some of the serious issues that can occur during a breakup or divorce. While some are offended by the idea of a prenuptial agreement, it can be particularly vital in states wherein divorce essentially splits spouses' assets automatically. With that being said, a postnuptial agreement is also an option for couples that married or entered a civil union without a prenuptial agreement.

3. Representation During Familial Conflicts

The fact is that there are a lot of issues that can lead to family members facing each other in court, which may be unique and lay outside of the obvious conflicts handled by a family law attorney. Some of these problems eventually lead to litigants in court. Lawyer services offered by attorneys working in family law certainly extend to representing those litigants and ensuring that they have their right protected and their cases heard to the best possible advantage.

With over 70,000 licensed attorneys available in Texas alone, you should have plenty of law offices to choose from if you need a family law attorney. Ultimately, you need to choose carefully, and work with a lawyer that you trust. This can make a big difference in terms of how your case ultimately works out.

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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.