Family law is the general term for those legal matters involving marriage, divorce, child custody, child support and related issues.

In Texas a person has to live in the state for at least six months and in the county where a divorce is to be filed for 90 days. When a divorce is filed, the law requires a 60 day waiting period before the divorce can be granted.

If the parties reach agreement as to custody, child support and periods of possession of minor children, as well as agreement for division of jointly owned property and debts, that can result in the case being concluded faster and with less expense.

In a situation where any of those issues are not agreed and must be decided by a judge, the process will take longer, due to the need to prepare the case for a contested hearing. Depending on the nature of the case and the issues in dispute, a contested final divorce hearing might last a couple of hours or as long as a full day.

Many cases are settled through the process of mediation. Mediation is actually a settlement conference where the parties jointly employ the services of an independent, neutral mediator who works with the parties and their lawyers to try to come to an agreement and avoid the expense and delay that can result from a contested case.

At Ratliff and Edwards, we treat each case and each client with the individual care and attention that they deserve. When possible, we assist our clients in reaching agreements that are fair and in the best interests of the children involved. When necessary, we work hard to represent our clients in the courtroom to see that they are treated fairly.