Family Law FAQ
Our family law FAQ answers common Fort Worth questions about divorce, custody, support, adoption, modifications, enforcement, and Texas court procedures.
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Family Law FAQ
What courts handle family law cases in Fort Worth?
Tarrant County family law matters, including divorce, custody, and child support, are generally filed in the county’s family district courts, often heard at the George Allen Courts Building.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
Texas Family Code § 154.125 sets guideline child support as a percentage of the paying parent’s net monthly income, scaled by the number of children, with adjustments possible for specific circumstances.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested family law matter?
Texas does not require an attorney for uncontested matters, but even simple-seeming agreements can have long-term consequences (tax, property, or support implications), so many Fort Worth residents still choose a brief attorney review before filing.
What is mediation and is it required in Tarrant County?
Mediation is a structured negotiation process with a neutral third party. Many Tarrant County family courts require or strongly encourage mediation before a contested custody or divorce case proceeds to trial.
Family-law matters can involve divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, enforcement, protective orders, or changes to an existing court order. The court’s decisions depend on Texas law and the facts presented, including the child’s best interests when parenting issues are involved. Temporary orders may address possession schedules, support, use of property, and conduct while a case is pending. Mediation can help parties explore practical agreements, but any proposed terms should be clear, workable, and understood before they are signed. Keep copies of pleadings, court orders, financial records, school and medical information, and relevant communications. A dated timeline can help explain important events and identify approaching hearings or deadlines. Follow existing orders unless the court changes them, and document concerns factually instead of relying on memory. Before a consultation, list your goals, immediate problems, and questions about procedure, costs, or possible outcomes. General information is useful for preparation, but advice should account for your family’s circumstances, the court handling the case, and the precise wording of existing orders or agreements.
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