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Navigating family law, estate planning, and appeals can be complex and emotionally challenging. At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, we understand the importance of securing a stable future for your loved ones and preserving your hard-earned assets.
Thinking about divorce? Have a child custody issue arise? We can help.
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Your case may have reached a conclusion that you want to appeal, or the opposing party may have filed an appeal.
When conflicts happen, every family has a different response based on the family’s unique dynamics. Whether emotional, interpersonal, physical, or financial, these conflicts can have a significant consequence on a family’s relationships and can permanently alter these connections. Due to this, family law concerns are often more complex and have a longer-lasting impact than other legal matters.
Regardless of the actual legal concern, whether issues relating to divorce, child custody, visitation rights, or other areas of the law, cases involving the family have a more profound impact on the people involved. A common consequence of dealing with a family law concern is facing an equally complicated legal system. Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal but you don’t have to face this process alone.
At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, experienced San Antonio Family Law Attorney Linda Leeser is dedicated to helping families achieve the best possible outcome for their cases. We work diligently to provide quality legal counsel to help our clients understand their rights and aggressive representation to fight for their best interests in and out of court.
To schedule a consultation with our skilled San Antonio family lawyer and to learn more about our services, call us today at (210) 997-2914.
Hardworking, Zealous Advocates Who Know The Law And How To Apply It To Clients' Needs
Our trial readiness is an asset for our Texas clients. Legal opponents soon come to understand we are willing and equipped to take a case before a judge or jury. More often, our well-honed negotiation skills bring about a favorable conclusion outside of court. You can count on us to recommend the most appropriate legal remedy for your situation.
If you are looking for well-prepared, experienced, well-respected lawyers ready to fight for you, contact us at (210) 997-2914 or send an email to schedule@attytx.com.
I’ve used Linda Leeser on 2 separate occassions and she has always taken her time to answer all my questions and has provided good legal advice while demonstrating a very strong understanding of the law. She is very timely and professional and I would work with her again.
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Linda Leeser and her staff are always very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. They always showed great concern and really take time to listen to their clients. I would defiantly come to her again with legal assistance or advice.
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If I can leave a million stars I would. Took my case in a short notice head on and crushed it. Being from out of state had me worried and I didn’t know that to do until I came across Linda. From the very first phone call, the knowledge she showed was out of this world and I knew I was in the right spot. Very professional, straight up and to the point. Kept in contact with me through the whole process from the first phone call to the last. Answered everything question thoroughly and made sure I understood everything as well. I wouldn’t hesitate to come back to her in the future. Thank you Lisa!
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Linda and her team were very professional, helped me in every way possible..quick responsively Answered all of my questions..made this experience very fast and easy Thank you for you’re patience and assistance Highly recommended
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Linda is exceptionally knowledgeable and professional. I recommend her highly. She met all of my requirements – full of knowledge, excellent listener, compassionate and thorough. 5/5!
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Seeking an Experienced Attorney? Look No Further!
At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, we provide legal guidance and personalized attention for your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation – let’s secure the results you deserve!
Family law is a legal practice that focuses on matters involving family relationships and domestic issues. It encompasses the legal processes, statutes, and regulations that govern family issues and disputes, such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic violence. Family law is essential because it helps to maintain order and protect the rights of family members in various situations.
The importance of family law cannot be overstated, as it touches upon some of the most intimate and delicate aspects of people’s lives. It provides a legal framework to ensure that family members are treated fairly and that their rights are protected. It enables families to navigate challenging events that may involve significant emotional, financial, and legal ramifications. Furthermore, family law cases can have long-lasting consequences for the individuals involved, as well as their loved ones, making it vital to have a legal advocate that can effectively address these sensitive and challenging situations.
Family law practitioners in San Antonio carry the unique responsibility of providing legal assistance and guidance on legal issues involving the family and other domestic relationships. Compared to other law practitioners, family lawyers have to provide emotional support during what can be a stressful and emotionally-charged time for families while also maintaining an objective view aligned with the law.
Family lawyers must also toe the line when it comes to being an advocate for their client’s best interests and an aggressive protector of their rights. It is important to remember that the family’s connections would continue to exist even after the legal case has concluded. While burning bridges may be inevitable in some cases, an experienced family lawyer must maintain a precarious balance and utilize a collaborative approach when possible.
San Antonio family lawyer Linda Leeser is a strong advocate of providing a tailored approach to family law to recognize each family’s unique dynamics and in using alternative dispute solutions where possible. She works diligently to fight for an outcome that keeps her clients’ best interests in mind and provides robust representation to protect their rights. At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, our team’s priority is to provide skilled legal help that allows our clients to have a positive outlook toward the future when their legal cases conclude.
Our legal team understands that not all family disagreements can be resolved within the family. Family law issues such as divorce, a grandparents’ rights question or a child custody dispute can arise despite your best efforts to avoid personal and legal problems.
Tapping into reliable legal counsel is one of the best things you can do for your future at a time like this.
Our family law firm handles an array of legal matters, including:
Legal remedies such as mediation may be necessary to arrive at a workable property division or child custody arrangement. Our family law firm is prepared to provide the guidance and insights you need to accomplish your goals effectively, in your best interests and those of your children. Our empathy, clear communications and experience make Family Matters Law Firm PLLC a wise choice.
If you are on the verge of separation or divorce from your spouse, we urge you to contact a lawyer before clearing out a bank account, leaving the family home or taking your children away without the other parent’s consent. Be wary of words or actions that could lead to accusations of domestic violence.
We also strongly recommend you refrain from posting status reports on Facebook or other social media forums. Internet activity could compromise your case as you move closer to divorce.
You can depend on the team at Family Matters Law Firm PLLC for quality representation on family law matters. Talk to us at Family Matters Law Firm PLLC for more information on how to protect your parental rights and property rights if your marriage is in a state of decline. Whether you are approaching divorce, are engaged in a custody dispute, or are looking into adoption, our skilled attorneys are here to provide the professional legal advice you need.
No matter what the situation you find yourself in, our attorneys are equipped to advise you. If you work with us, we pledge to keep you informed and work hard to meet your needs. We will strive for the best attainable resolution for your case. We will ensure a timely resolution of your legal matter whenever possible.
Call us today at (210) 997-2914 or send an email message to schedule an initial free consultation.
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Family law encompasses a broad range of legal issues concerning family relationships, and it affects people from all walks of life. Some of the key areas covered by family law include:
In Texas, family lawyers can assist individuals going through separation or divorce by providing legal guidance and representation. Family law attorneys can help individuals understand their legal rights and obligations, negotiate and draft agreements related to child custody and support, visitation, property division, and spousal support, and represent individuals in court, when necessary.
Beyond legal guidance, family law attorneys can also provide emotional support and guidance during the separation or divorce process. A skilled attorney can help couples navigate complex emotions and dynamics, and connect them with resources such as counseling or therapy if needed. Ultimately, family law can play a vital role in helping individuals protect their legal rights, reach a fair and equitable settlement, and move forward confidently into the next chapter of their lives.
Child custody and support issues often arise when parents separate or divorce. Family law helps determine which parent should have legal and physical custody of the children, as well as how decisions regarding their upbringing and care will be made. This includes the child’s education, medical treatment, and religious upbringing. In addition, family law sets the criteria for determining the appropriate amount of child support to be paid by the non-custodial parent, ensuring that the child’s financial needs are met.
Adoption is the legal process through which a person becomes the legal parent of a child who is not biologically theirs. Family law governs the adoption process, including the eligibility requirements for prospective adoptive parents, biological parents’ rights, and the legal procedures that must be followed to complete an adoption. The law also protects the best interests of the child throughout the adoption process.
Alimony, also known as spousal support, is financial assistance paid by one spouse to the other after a separation or divorce. Family law establishes the criteria for determining whether alimony should be granted, the amount of support to be paid, and the duration of payments.
Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior that occurs within a family or intimate relationship. Family law provides legal protections for victims of domestic violence, such as restraining orders, orders of protection, and emergency custody orders, and outlines the legal consequences for those who perpetrate such abuse. It also plays a critical role in addressing the rights and responsibilities of both parties in cases involving domestic violence.
Family law also addresses cases involving child and elder abuse, ensuring the protection and well-being of vulnerable individuals in various family settings. This includes legal processes to investigate and remedy situations involving the neglect, maltreatment, or exploitation of children and elderly individuals. The role of family law is to protect the rights and welfare of these individuals and ensure that perpetrators of abuse are held accountable for their actions.
One of the most common types of family law cases in San Antonio, Texas is divorce, which can be classified as either fault-based or no-fault. In a no-fault divorce, the couple only needs to claim that their marriage is no longer salvageable due to irreconcilable differences. Conversely, in a fault-based divorce, one party must provide evidence that the other spouse is at fault for the marriage breakdown.
Divorces in Texas can also be categorized as contested or uncontested. A contested divorce occurs when the couple cannot agree on specific terms of the divorce such as spousal support, property division, or child custody. In contrast, an uncontested divorce happens when both parties agree on all the terms of the divorce, resulting in a less complicated and less costly process.
| Grounds for Divorce | Description |
|---|---|
| Adultery | When one spouse engages in a sexual relationship with someone outside the marriage |
| Cruelty | Physical, emotional, or mental abuse by one spouse towards the other |
| Abandonment | When one spouse leaves the marriage without the other spouse’s consent and with the intention of ending the marriage |
| Felony Conviction | If one spouse is convicted of a felony during the marriage and sentenced to at least one year in prison |
| Living Apart | If a couple has been living apart for at least three years without cohabitation |
| Confinement to a Mental Hospital | When one spouse has been confined in a state or private mental hospital for at least three years and it appears that their mental disorder is permanent or likely to result in a relapse, even if they do recover |
To file for divorce in Texas, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for the previous six months and in the county where the divorce is being filed for at least 90 days. This residency requirement ensures that Texas courts have jurisdiction over the divorce case.
Texas is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a spouse can seek a divorce without proving that the other spouse did something wrong. Insupportability, also referred to as irreconcilable differences in other states, allows a spouse to file for a divorce without having to determine fault for the dissolution of the marriage.
In addition to insupportability, Texas recognizes the following fault-based legal grounds for divorce:
Working with a skilled attorney can help you understand the differences between the no-fault and the fault-based grounds. An attorney can also assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and ensuring that they are submitted correctly. At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, skilled San Antonio divorce attorney Linda Leeser can also assist you in navigating the legal processes surrounding divorce in Texas.
Call us today to schedule a consultation at (210) 997-2914.
In Texas, child custody is more commonly referred to as conservatorship. Several types of custody arrangements can be established.
However, there is no “one size fits all” custody arrangement, and the courts will always prioritize the best interests of the child. The court can limit the rights afforded to the parents if it deems that allowing custody or visitation can be detrimental to the child’s well-being.
Child custody and support are often contentious issues in divorce cases, affecting both parents and their children. In Texas, the courts strive to establish arrangements that are in the best interest of the child, often considering factors such as the child’s emotional and physical needs, the stability of each parent’s home, and the demonstrated ability and willingness of each parent to provide for their child. Regardless of the determination in terms of conservatorship or custody, child support may be ordered to ensure that both parents contribute financially to their child’s upbringing.
Modifying existing custody orders can also be necessary as life circumstances change. In Texas, a custody order can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances for the child or either parent or if at least one year has passed since the original order. Examples of significant changes might include a parent’s relocation, job loss or change, or a child’s medical or educational needs.
In Texas, visitation rights are an essential aspect of child custody cases. Visitation, also known as “possession and access,” refers to the right of a non-custodial parent to spend time with their child. Texas law recognizes that both parents have a right to maintain a relationship with their child, and the court will generally prefer to award joint custody unless it is not in the child’s best interest.
The Texas Family Code provides a standard possession order that outlines a visitation schedule that applies to most cases including vacation time. Under this schedule, the non-custodial parent has visitation rights 1st, 3rd, and 5th weekend and Thursday eveningevery week during the school year. The non-custodial parent also has extended visitation during the summer months and certain holidays. It is important to note that Texas law has specific provisions that can depend on the proximity of the non-custodial parent to the child’s residence and that visitation schedules may differ due to this reason.
However, the standard possession order may not be suitable for every family. In some cases, parents may agree to a different visitation schedule, or the court may order a modified schedule based on the best interests of the child. It’s important to note that visitation rights can also be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a move or a change in work schedule.
In addition to standard visitation rights, Texas law also recognizes “supervised visitation” in cases where there are concerns about the child’s safety or well-being. In these cases, visitation must be supervised by a third party or take place in a supervised visitation center.
In Texas, property division during a divorce can be a complex and contentious issue. Texas is a community property state, which means that any property acquired during the marriage is considered community property and must be divided fairly between spouses. This includes assets such as the family home, bank accounts, retirement accounts, investment accounts, and even business interests.
There are some exceptions to the community property rule. Property that is acquired before the marriage, property that is inherited or received as a gift during the marriage, and property that is excluded by a prenuptial agreement are considered separate property and are not subject to division during a divorce.
When dividing property during a divorce, the court will consider several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity and financial resources, each spouse’s contribution to the marriage (including non-financial contributions such as homemaking), and the health and age of each spouse.
It’s important to note that property division in Texas is not always a 50/50 split. The court may order an unequal division of property if there is a compelling reason to do so and can include the following considerations:
To ensure a fair division of property during a divorce, it’s essential to have the assistance of a qualified family law attorney who can advocate for your rights and protect your interests. At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, we can assist you in creating a divorce settlement that takes into consideration your family’s unique dynamics and needs.
To learn more about how property is distributed in a Texas divorce, call (210) 997-2914 to schedule a consultation.
Alimony or spousal support may be ordered in cases of divorce or legal separation, providing temporary or permanent financial assistance to one spouse. The amount and duration of spousal support are determined by various factors, including the length of the marriage, the disparity of income between the spouses, and the ability of each spouse to support themselves.
Divorce expenses in Texas can be divided into several categories. Attorney’s fees are usually the largest expense, which can vary depending on the lawyer’s experience, reputation, and location. An uncontested divorce typically costs less than a contested divorce, which requires more legal work and court appearances. Court fees are another expense associated with a divorce in Texas. Other expenses may include the cost of appraisals for property division, expert witnesses, mediation fees, and child custody evaluations if contested issues arise.
While there is no legal requirement to have an attorney to file a divorce in Texas, retaining the services of an experienced San Antonio divorce lawyer can help you avoid any potential issues that may arise down the line. A skilled attorney can help make sure that your paperwork is filed correctly, walk you through your roles and responsibilities when filing a divorce, and represent your best interests in mediating a divorce agreement or representing you in court for divorce litigation.
Call Family Matters Law Firm PLLC today at (210) 997-2914 to learn more about our services and how we can help you.
Taking a holistic approach to family law in Texas involves recognizing that legal issues affecting families are often interconnected and require a comprehensive approach that should address all aspects of a family’s well-being. Rather than solely focusing on the legal aspects of a case, a holistic approach to family law considers the emotional, financial, and social needs of the individuals involved.
In divorce cases, a holistic approach involves not just dividing assets and child custody arrangements, but also recognizing the emotional impact of the divorce on the family members and the financial implications on the parties involved.
Recognizing the importance of alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and collaborative law can also help alleviate some of the pressure in family law cases. Alternative solutions allow families to work together rather than relying on a court to make decisions for them. With a comprehensive approach, family law concerns can often be less stressful, less costly, and can lead to more long-lasting solutions than traditional litigation.
Furthermore, taking a holistic approach to family law in Texas means recognizing the unique needs of different family types, such as LGBT couples, blended families, and families with special needs children. Providing culturally sensitive legal services is also essential in understanding the cultural and social context in which families operate.
Family law attorneys can help families navigate legal issues while maintaining positive relationships and preserving their well-being by taking a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnected nature of legal issues affecting families.
At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, we exercise these values in dealing with divorce cases as well as the following practice areas:
Adoptions in San Antonio can be domestic (within the United States) or international, involving the adoption of a child from another country. Each type of adoption has its own set of laws and requirements, such as background checks, home studies, and mandatory waiting periods.
Stepparent and relative adoptions are common in San Antonio and often require less extensive requirements than other types of adoption. In these cases, the adoptive parent is not considered a legal stranger to the child, as they often have a pre-existing bond and familial relationship which can be beneficial as there is already a foundation to build on.
In adoption cases, it’s important to prioritize the child’s best interests and address any legal issues that may arise. Effective communication among all parties is key to resolving any concerns respectfully and productively.
Especially in cases wherein the birth parents are still in the picture, a personalized adoption plan can be created that considers the needs and preferences of everyone involved, including visitation and communication arrangements. To ensure that the best interests and rights – not only of the child but of everyone involved – are protected, the adoption plan must comply with relevant legal requirements related to custody and parental rights.
It is important to remember that the child’s well-being is paramount, especially in terms of ensuring a stable home environment and addressing any special needs. Maintaining relationships with birth parents may also be pursued depending on the circumstances.
Understanding adoption laws and requirements in Texas is crucial for those looking to adopt in San Antonio. Working with an experienced adoption attorney is essential in navigating the legal complexities and ensuring a smooth and successful adoption process.
In Texas, grandparents normally have limited legal rights when it comes to their grandchildren. In most cases, grandparents may request visitation if the child’s parents are deceased, or incarcerated. If the child’s parents are deemed unfit or unable to care for the child, grandparents may seek custody, but this requires strong evidence and often involves court intervention.
If there is reason to believe that having the child stay with his/her parents can be detrimental to their well-being, grandparents may adopt their grandchildren with the parents’ consent or seek termination of parental rights. When pursuing your rights as a grandparent, it is beneficial to consult with an experienced family law attorney. To be awarded custody and visitation rights, grandparents would need to provide evidence that their involvement in the child’s life is aligned with the child’s best interests.
Family law in Texas recognizes the legal rights of LGBT couples, providing them with more legal protection and recognition. This includes same-sex marriage, which was legalized in Texas in 2015, providing LGBT couples with the same legal rights and protections as heterosexual couples. Aside from adoption which is one of the common family law cases that involve LGBT couples, an experienced San Antonio Family Law Attorney can also help same-sex couples navigate the legal processes of dealing with divorce, child custody, and other family law concerns in the same way a heterosexual couple can benefit.
A skilled attorney can ensure that child custody determinations are made based on the best interests of the child, regardless of the parents’ sexual orientation or gender identity affording LGBT parents the same legal rights and protections as heterosexual parents when it comes to child custody and visitation. LGBT couples also have the same legal rights and protections as heterosexual couples when it comes to divorce, including property division, alimony, and child support. An experienced attorney can also help in drafting important documents such as pre and post-nuptial agreements. Family lawyers can help LGBT couples in Texas by providing legal recognition and protection for their relationships and families.
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Family Matters Law Firm PLLC offers personalized legal guidance to meet your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you secure the results you deserve!
Dealing with family law matters can be complicated and emotionally challenging. Such cases can have a long-lasting impact on your family relationships and may result in serious consequences, both financial and otherwise.
At Family Matters Law Firm PLLC, we understand the complexities of family law matters and are dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation to our clients. Our experienced San Antonio Family Law Attorney, Linda Leeser, can provide you with the guidance and aggressive representation you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
We strive to ensure that our clients understand their legal rights and work tirelessly to protect their interests, whether it be related to divorce, child custody, visitation rights, or any other family law matter.
If you are facing a family law issue and want to learn more about our legal services, please contact us at (210) 997-2914 to schedule a consultation with our skilled attorney. Let us help you navigate the legal system and achieve a positive resolution for you and your family.
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Disclaimer: The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established. Please be advised that the results achieved in any given case depend upon the exact facts and circumstances of that case. Family Matters Law Firm, PLLC cannot guarantee a specific result in any legal matter. Any testimonial or case result listed on this site is based on an actual legal case and represents the results achieved in that particular case, and does not constitute a guarantee, warranty or prediction of the outcome of any other legal matter.
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