Fort Worth Family Law

Ending a marriage is one of the most difficult decisions an individual can make. At Melone Hatley, P.C., we understand that your divorce isn’t just a legal transaction. It’s a major life transition.

Whether your situation is amicable or contested, our Fort Worth divorce attorneys are here to guide you through every step. We’ll help you address critical issues like property division, child custody and visitation, spousal maintenance, and any other matters unique to your case. From filing the initial petition to negotiating a fair settlement or representing you in court, we will work to protect your interests and secure a resolution that ensures your long-term stability.

While Texas does not recognize legal separation in the same way some states do, couples can still create an agreement that outlines important terms while they are living apart. Separation agreements can address various issues, such as property division, child custody, support, and other financial responsibilities during the separation period. A well-crafted separation agreement can provide clarity, financial stability, and may also be incorporated into the financial divorce decree, simplifying the final process. Our Fort Worth family lawyers can help you negotiate and draft an agreement that protects your rights now and avoids future conflict.

Fort Worth’s strong military presence means that many local families face the unique nuances of military life and family law matters. Military divorces involve unique legal and jurisdictional challenges that set them apart from civilian cases. Our team is well-versed in how state and federal laws intersect in these matters, military benefits and how they are handled in a divorce case, and other military family complexities to ensure you are getting the guidance and advice you will need to navigate a successful military divorce in the Fort Worth area.

Nothing matters more than your children. However, Texas uses different terminology and concepts than many other states. This makes it even more critical for parents to understand state custody laws and how courts make their decisions. At Melone Hatley, P.C., our Fort Worth family law attorneys are here to help parents navigate custody and create parenting plans that work for their unique situation. We will advocate for your parental rights while ensuring your child’s emotional and physical well-being remains the top priority.

Texas law requires both parents to support their children financially. Typically, the noncustodial parent makes payments to the custodial parent based on state guidelines that consider the paying parent’s income, the number of children, and other costs and obligations. Our Fort Worth family law attorneys help parents understand their legal obligations and rights while working to secure or contest child support obligations based on accurate income, unique custody arrangements, or other special circumstances.

In Texas, marital community property is typically divided using a “just and right” standard, meaning it is not always an even split. We help you identify and properly classify all assets and debts, including real estate, businesses, retirement accounts, and personal property, to achieve a fair division that reflects your contributions and long-term needs.

Spousal maintenance in Texas is never guaranteed. To secure support, you must meet specific statutory qualifications. Whether you are seeking spousal maintenance or disputing a claim, the Fort Worth family law attorneys at Melone Hatley, P.C. can assess your situation and build a compelling case for your financial stability or defense against an unfair request.

Whether you are planning ahead or have decided to adjust your financial expectations during your marriage, a well-drafted pre- or postnuptial agreement can allow both parties peace of mind. Our experienced family law attorneys will create agreements tailored to your specific goals while ensuring they meet Texas law.

Life continues to change after a divorce or custody order is finalized. In Texas, you can request a modification to child custody, visitation, child support, or spousal maintenance when there has been a substantial change in your circumstances, such as a job change, relocation, a shift in your child’s needs, or your former spouse has remarried or started living with a new partner. Our Fort Worth family lawyers help clients petition the court to modify existing orders or defend against unwanted changes.

As one of the more joyful areas of family law, adoption can also be legally complex. We guide families through stepparent adoptions, private adoptions, and agency placements to ensure compassionate oversight and legal compliance.

If you are facing domestic violence or threats to your safety, Texas law provides strong protections through protective court orders. These orders can prohibit contact, remove an abuser from the home, and provide temporary custody or support arrangements. Our skilled family law attorneys act quickly to help clients seek protective orders and take legal steps to ensure their safety and the safety of their children. We also represent individuals who may have been wrongfully accused, protecting their rights during sensitive and complex proceedings.