Divorce
Ending a marriage is never simply a paperwork exercise. It reshapes your entire life.
Divorce requires dividing community property fairly, sharing custody of your children in a way that prioritizes their best interests, and determining whether one spouse is entitled to continued support. Whether your matter is resolved through negotiation or litigation, we focus on your long-term stability so your future is protected.
Division of Community Property
Texas is a community property state, which means most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned by both spouses, regardless of whose name is on the account, title, or paycheck. When couples divorce, community assets must be divided in a way the court deems “just and right,” but this does not always mean a 50/50 split.
We work closely with you to identify, classify, and value all marital property, ensuring a fair and lawful division. Whether your case involves a straightforward division or complex, high-value assets, our goal is to protect your financial future and help you reach a fair resolution.
Child Custody and Visitation
Few issues are as emotionally charged or contentious as child custody. For parents, protecting their relationship with their children is paramount. Texas courts take the same approach, always prioritizing the best interests of the child when determining custody (legally referred to as conservatorship) and visitation (possession and access).
We work closely with parents to help them understand how courts evaluate custody by considering factors that affect their child’s emotional and physical needs. Whether you are seeking joint conservatorship or are looking to protect your child, we will advocate for a solution that safeguards your child’s well-being while preserving your role in their life.
Child Support
Both parents have a legal responsibility to share the financial support of their children. Child support ensures that both play a part in providing financial stability, ensuring that their needs are met for housing, food, clothing, medical care, and education.
In Texas, a standardized formula determines child support based on the paying parent’s net income and the number of children involved. However, courts have great latitude to consider other factors that might warrant a deviation from the guideline amount. Whether you will be paying or receiving support, we are here to advocate for a result that is both fair and legally sound, ensuring that your child gets the appropriate level of support that reflects your situation.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
In Texas, spousal maintenance is never automatic. A spouse must generally show an inability to meet “minimum reasonable needs” despite diligent efforts to become self-supporting or that family violence occurred within the marriage.
Our skilled Laredo family law attorneys prepare detailed evidence to prove or refute need, and we negotiate contractual alimony when the statutory caps would otherwise leave one spouse financially vulnerable. By addressing support early, we open the door to creative solutions that can balance cash flow needs.
Modification and Enforcement
Life rarely remains static after the final divorce decree. As circumstances change, existing court orders may no longer reflect what is practical for the family or in a child’s best interests.
In Texas, you may request a modification to child custody and visitation, child support, or spousal maintenance if there has been a substantial and material change in circumstances. This could include a job loss or promotion, a change in your child’s medical or educational needs, or a former spouse’s remarriage or cohabitation.
Whether you are seeking an adjustment to an order or opposing a proposed change, we will guide you through the process and work toward a resolution that reflects your current situation.
Separation
Unlike some states, Texas does not formally recognize legal separation as a distinct option. However, that doesn’t mean that couples living apart can’t have legal protections. Spouses can enter into a separation agreement that can address matters such as the division of finances and debts, the use of the marital home, temporary child custody and parenting time, and temporary child and spousal support.
Whether you are taking time to decide if divorce is the right path or considering a possible reconciliation, having a clear and enforceable agreement while you are apart can reduce confusion and conflict.
Family Law for Military Families
Laredo’s proximity to Joint Base San Antonio and Laughlin AFB means that many families in the area are military families. And in family law matters, they must navigate a complex intersection of state laws and federal protections.
Our attorneys understand how deployments affect custody schedules, how the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act can pause proceedings, and the precise rules for dividing assets and military retirement benefits so you can have peace of mind knowing your rights are protected every step of the way.
Enforcement of Court Orders
When a Texas court issues an order, both parties are legally bound by its terms. Unfortunately, not everyone complies. When one party violates an order, swift legal action may be necessary to protect your rights and uphold the integrity of the court’s decision.
Our family law attorneys act quickly to gather evidence, file appropriate enforcement actions, and pursue remedies through the court system, helping to restore compliance and ensure your family’s legal protections remain intact.
Experienced Family Law Representation in Laredo, Texas
At Melone Hatley, P.C., we understand that family law cases aren’t just about legal rights – they’re about protecting your financial stability, your future, your children, and your peace of mind. Our experienced Laredo family law attorneys are here to support you through life’s most challenging transitions. Call 956-691-0005 or complete our online form today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Client Services Coordinators.
