Texas Family Law Insiders

Unlock the secrets to mastering the art of evidence in family law cases!In this episode, Spenser Housewright, a family law attorney at the Shapiro Law Firm, delves into the critical topic of evidence—how to get it in, how to keep it out, and its importance in winning a case.You’ll discover…The surprising importance of knowing your judge's tendencies to sway your case's outcome.A sneak peek into personal business records and their underutilized power in family law.Why attorneys shouldn't overuse objections, and when exactly to make them count.The crucial role of business records affidavits and how to secure them.A proven strategy to not let non-responsive testimony derail your case.

Unlock the possibilities of AI in the legal field while overcoming the challenges of technology adoption that most attorneys face today…But how can lawyers harness artificial intelligence to elevate their practice without succumbing to overwhelm or ethical pitfalls?In this episode, Alex Shahrestani, managing partner of Promise Legal PLLC, delves deep into the integration of AI and law, offering innovative insights into navigating this technological terrain effectively.You’ll discover:What AI really is and how it can transform legal practices.The importance of learning to draft effective prompts in AI chatbots.How attorneys can train AI to tailor solutions for their unique needs.The ethical concerns and privacy issues lawyers should be mindful of when using AI.Why big law firms might face challenges, and small firms rise, in the age of AI.

From Prosecution to Financial Planning—The Multifaceted Career of Guy RodgersIn this episode, Guy Rodgers, the owner of Guy Rodgers Private Wealth Strategies, unravels his unique journey from being a family lawyer to becoming a seasoned financial advisor. Tune in to learn how he helps individuals and legal professionals navigate complex financial landscapes.You’ll discover…What prompted Guy to transition from family law to financial advisor.How involving a financial advisor in divorce property discussions can significantly benefit your client.The significance of setting a revenue target and knowing your numbers as a law firm owner.Why creating an emergency fund is crucial for personal and business financial stability.Key travel hacks that can save you thousands on luxury trips.

Ever wondered how you can turn the tide on an unfavorable child custody evaluation or uncover the hidden layers of business valuations in family law? Join us as we dive deep into family law expert witness testimony with an industry expert.In this episode, Greg Beane, a board-certified family law attorney at Webb Family Law, unveils the secrets to prepare for direct and cross-examination of expert witnesses in family law cases. This conversation promises to offer strategic insights and practical advice that every family attorney should know.You’ll discover...The nuanced methods to challenge and win against negative child custody evaluations.The importance of choosing the right financial experts for your case.How to effectively handle cross-examinations to undermine the opposing expert's testimony.Key strategies for preparing your expert witnesses for direct examination in court.

Prosecutors spend far more time in the courtroom than most family lawyers, so what can we learn from a former prosecutor? Get ready for a deep dive into the strategic world of courtroom preparation and trial skills!In this episode, Emily Doron, a seasoned attorney at The Draper Law Firm, unveils the secrets behind success in the courtroom, drawing on her rich experience in the DA's office.You’ll discover…The three critical points Emily focuses on to win her cases.How to strategically prepare clients for the emotional rollercoaster of cross-examination.The art of handling exhibit selection for maximum courtroom impact.Why understanding judge preferences can change your courtroom strategy.The surprising differences between criminal and family law courtrooms that can sway a case.

Social media might be the secret weapon for your business, but are you utilizing it to its full potential? Discover how one lawyer turned her social media presence into a powerhouse for her law firm.In this episode, Gianni Avalos, owner of Avalos Family Trial Attorneys, shares her innovative strategies in social media marketing, virtual business structuring, and niche marketing that revolutionized her practice.You’ll discover:The surprising impact of removing text overlays from your videos.Why spontaneous content creation could be the game-changer you need.The magic behind TikTok’s new watermark-free video feature.How niche marketing can elevate your business to new heights.The secret payment structures that offer flexibility to clients and stability to the firm.

Ever wondered if close living arrangements could unintentionally lead to a common law marriage? Discover the nuances behind informal marriages, especially in the Lone Star State, and why it's a topic that has family lawyers on their toes.In this episode, Brandi Crozier, attorney at The Draper Law Firm, uncovers the intricate world of common law marriage and its implications for couples in Texas. This deep dive will leave you with a better understanding of what it really means to be "married" in the eyes of the law.You’ll discover…The three critical elements that define a common law marriage in Texas.Why an ordinary breakup could lead to complicated legal battles.The surprising factors courts consider when determining cohabitation and public representation.How different states' laws can complicate common law marriage claims.The essential steps lawyers must take when handling an informal marriage case.

In custody battles involving polarizing child custody issues, the stakes are high and the challenges manifold...How can parents and legal professionals navigate the complexities with authenticity and support?In this episode, Kelly Fritsch, an experienced family law attorney and owner of a family law practice in Houston, Texas, shares her invaluable insights on effectively handling cases involving polarized parenting scenarios.In this episode, you’ll discover…Strategies for handling cases involving transgender children or parentsThe importance of mental health support for both transitioning children and their parents.Strategies for representing parents on either side of polarizing issues.Legal considerations around vaccinations and their classification as invasive procedures in custody cases.The rising legal challenges in cases with polarized parenting and how to navigate them.Approaches for estimating and managing financial disputes over children's extracurricular activities post-divorce.

Ever wondered how to prepare for an oral argument before the Texas Supreme Court? Dive into the intricate details and unique experiences of handling a high-stakes Supreme Court case.In this episode, Holly Draper unpacks the complexities and strategies involved in her recent oral argument in the Texas Supreme Court case, Stary v. Ethridge.You’ll discover…The meticulous preparation and strategies needed for a successful oral argument.The significance of having amici curiae in court cases and how they can influence outcomes.Insights into the intricate process of dealing with a non-responsive party in appellate proceedings.The importance of moot courts.A de-brief of the oral argument in Stary v. Ethridge.

Child custody evaluations can be out of the question for many family law litigants because of the expense and time involved. Could Brief Focused Assessments be a better solution in many cases? In this episode, Christy Bradshaw Schmidt, a licensed professional counselor and family law expert, reveals innovative strategies and insights to simplify and improve the child custody evaluation process, with an emphasis on Brief Focused Assessments (BFA).You’ll discover:How BFAs can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional custody evaluations.Key considerations for attorneys when working with mental health professionals.Why maintaining professional boundaries and relationships is crucial in family law cases.Christy’s top resources for family law attorneys to improve their practice.The latest legislative changes impacting custody evaluations.

Feeling overwhelmed by financial disclosures during divorce cases? Learn how to streamline the process and make your case rock-solid with insights from the pros!In this episode, Holly Draper and Carrie Tapia, partners at The Draper Law Firm, delve into the intricacies of effectively managing financial documents for mediation and court. They explore common pitfalls and offer practical strategies for attorneys and clients alike, all while uncovering the nuances of financial preparation in family law cases.In this episode, you’ll discover:How to identify and manage sudden separate property claims made during mediation.The crucial role of accurate document labeling and proper format submission.Why valuing non-statement assets like houses and cars requires a cautious approach.The complexities of business valuations and when to seek expert opinions.Proven strategies to keep financial inventories up-to-date and reliable.

Did you know that spousal maintenance in Texas has a maximum duration and specific termination conditions? Dive into this episode to uncover the intricacies of spousal support laws, how they affect divorce proceedings, and essential advice for family lawyers.In this episode, Rob McAngus, Partner at Verner Brumley Mueller Parker, P.C. and board-certified in family law, reveals the nuanced world of spousal maintenance in Texas and offers invaluable wisdom for family law attorneys.You’ll discover…The difference between spousal maintenance and alimony, and why Texas has unique rules.Key factors courts consider when determining the minimum reasonable needs test.Real-life examples of disability cases and their implications on spousal maintenance rulings.How family violence convictions impact spousal maintenance eligibility.Essential advice from Rob McAngus on building a legal document repository.

Many of us dream of being a “lawyer on the beach…”But today’s guest, Nikita Lamar, has made it her reality. Nikita, founder of Lamar Legal Group, PLLC, will share her unique journey from starting her legal career in Texas to maintaining her successful practice remotely from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. She’ll cover:The mental and spiritual shift that inspired her to practice law abroadOvercoming the challenges of a remote law practiceKey technologies and strategies for managing a law firm remotelyThe impact of living abroad on personal growth and legal practiceAdvice for young lawyers and thoughts on non-traditional law practice pathsAnd more

Uncover the powerful journey of an attorney who navigated through the perils of burnout to rediscover her passion for law and life…Today's episode features Cynthia Rendon, owner of Rendon Law Firm, PLLC, and author of “Judge Me Not: An Attorney’s Journey of Healing from Burnout.” Cynthia shares how she transformed her practice as a lawyer to overcome burnout–and how other lawyers can do the same.She’ll cover:The pivotal moment that propelled her to confront burnout head-on and seek a healthier, more balanced approach to her career and life.Practical and effective strategies that can help any attorney avoid the brink of burnout and thrive both professionally and personally.The importance of setting firm boundaries and the revolutionary impact of time-blocking on productivity and mental health.And more.

In this episode of The Texas Family Law Insiders podcast, we delve deep into the world of interstate child custody litigation with Mary Neal, a seasoned family law attorney at Albin Oldner Law in Frisco, Texas. With a personal connection to the challenges of family law, Mary offers invaluable perspectives on navigating the legal complexities that come with child custody cases.We’ll cover:A comprehensive overview of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Enforcement Act and its critical role in ensuring fair and efficient custody proceedings across state linesThe challenges and solutions for handling custody cases that span different statesInsights into how temporary emergency jurisdiction can protect children in immediate danger and the legal framework surrounding itCommon mistakes attorneys make regarding the UCCJEA and advice on how to avoid themAnd more

Dive into the transformative world of divorce coaching with Amy Tyson, a twice-divorced mother turned advocate, as she unveils her latest resources for families navigating the complex journey of divorce.In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Amy back to the Texas Family Law Insiders podcast. Since we last spoke, Amy has continued to evolve her mission to support divorcing families, now stepping into a new role as a certified divorce coach. With a background marked by personal experience and a deep passion for helping others, Amy has developed invaluable resources, including her book, One Princess, Two Castles, and her latest venture, a journal for children and teenagers to express their feelings during this challenging time.Discover Amy's journey from experiencing divorce firsthand to becoming a beacon of support for others.Explore Little Hearts, Big Feelings, Amy's new journal designed to help children and teenagers navigate their emotions through divorce.Learn about the unique role of a divorce coach and how Amy's services complement the work of family law attorneys, fostering a healthier transition for all involved.Uncover the distinct difference between divorce coaching and therapy, and how Amy's approach aims to guide individuals towards a brighter future post-divorce.For more insights from Amy Tyson on turning hardship into hope and to discover how her coaching services can benefit you or someone you know going through a divorce, visit happinessintheheartache.com. Tune into this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or right here to embrace the journey towards healing and empowerment.

In this episode, we dive deep into the intersection of LGBTQ+ issues and family law, a realm where the legal landscapes are as diverse as the clients served.My guest is Christine Andresen, founder of CHA Law in Austin, Texas, a firm that specializes in serving LGBTQ+ family law clients. Christine will share what family lawyers need to know about LGBTQ+ issues in family law, drawing from her extensive experiences representing cases in this niche. She’ll share key information about:Navigating the political climate in TexasCases involving reproductive and adoption issuesThe potential legal challenges of same-sex divorce cases in TexasBest practices for representing transgender clientsAnd more

In this solo episode, Holly delves into the pivotal case she currently has pending before the Texas Supreme Court, Stary v. Ethridge, that challenges the constitutionality of the Texas protective order statute. Discover the nuances of Texas’ protective order statutes and the constitutional debate it ignites. Uncover the challenges and implications of the Stary v. Ethridge case as it ascends to the Texas Supreme Court.Examine the Texas protective order statute and its potential impact on parental rights.Learn about the constitutional debates surrounding the balance between victim protection and parental rights.Understand the potential precedents this case could set for future legal proceedings.For a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications of protective orders on parental rights, tune into this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or hit play above.

In this episode, partners Holly Draper and Carrie Tapia discuss the complex issue of enforcing possession and access. Holly and Carrie bring their extensive expertise in family law to shed light on the often-challenging area of enforcing possession and access, offering valuable insights for both legal professionals and individuals navigating these issues.Unpack the critical elements of enforcing possession and access in family law cases.Learn the importance of specific and enforceable orders in successful contempt proceedings.Gain insights into defending against enforcement actions.Understand the procedural nuances from filing motions to handling court proceedings in enforcement cases.For an in-depth understanding of the enforcement of possession and access in family law, and to benefit from Holly and Carrie’s expert guidance, listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or simply hit play above.

What is the impact of intensive reunification therapy in family law? Intensive reunification therapy is different than traditional reunification therapy, and it can potentially have many negative impacts on a family.In this episode, author and psychologist Susan Fletcher shares her expertise on intensive reunification therapy, a subject of growing concern nationwide.Susan will provide a detailed background of the therapy, its implications and ethical considerations, and the controversies surrounding it–and cover the often adverse psychological effects these programs have on children and parents.Susan’s insights are an excellent resource for attorneys wondering how to approach family law cases involving intensive reunification therapy.