We understand that family matters can be emotional and stressful, especially when it involves the legal system. At Foster Massengill, PLLC, we are committed to using a collaborative, common sense approach to resolve every case. We focus on solutions, not positions, ensuring that your legal interests are protected and important family ties are preserved.
Family law has a reputation for long drawn-out negotiations and combative court hearings. While that may be true for some family law matters, many cases can be resolved amicably. We believe that setting clear goals and expectations while promoting cooperative discussions will yield the most favorable resolution for all parties involved.
If you are facing a family dispute, our office will work with you to eliminate the uncertainties and shape the future you want. We help clients navigate difficult family matters, such as:
- Divorce and Separation
- Child Custody and Support
- Termination and Adoption
- Property Division
- Alimony and Spousal Support
- Guardianship
- Prenuptial Agreements
Divorce & Legal Separation in Ellis County
The decision to end a marriage should never be seen as a failure, but rather an opportunity to choose a better future for yourself, your spouse, and your family. Even when both spouses give their best efforts to a relationship, some marriages do not work out. We recognize that the decision to pursue a divorce is a difficult one that comes with personal, familial and financial ramifications.
If you are seeking a divorce, or your spouse has already filed for divorce, you should consult an experienced family law attorney. Even in the most amicable separations, determining issues such as the division of marital property, child custody, child support and spousal support can lead to challenging negotiations and tough decisions.
At Foster Massengill, PLLC, we understand the challenges that you may be facing, and can help you navigate those challenges every step of the way.
Determining Child Custody in Ellis County
While child custody is often a component of divorce, there are other circumstances where you might need to make custody arrangements for your children. In any regard, child custody is an issue often fraught with emotion where there is no “winner” or “loser”.
Child custody orders are designed to protect the interests of each parent as well as their child or children. These orders will specify whether parents share joint custody, or if one parent is granted sole custody. Child custody orders also clarify where a child will live (physical custody) and who can make important decisions about the child’s education, medical care and general welfare (legal custody).
When determining custody, the court will consider factors such as the parent-child relationship, contact history, parental health, parental fitness, places of residence, parental finances, and the safety and welfare of the child.
We understand that working through these situations can be especially challenging and emotional for your family. The Law Office of JD Foster will work with you, zealously advocating for your parental rights and fighting to preserve your relationship with your children.
Deciding Which Parent Will Pay Child Support in Ellis County
Child support is paid by the noncustodial parent to assist the custodial parent with the costs associated with caring for and raising the children. The State of Texas provides specific guidelines for determining child support, however, determining who is the custodial parent for child support purposes can be emotionally and financially taxing.
Our attorneys are experienced in handling these challenges and will explain everything to you along the way, always fighting for your best interests but making sure you understand how each decision will affect you and your responsibilities to the child and former spouse.
Hiring An Ellis County Family Law Attorney
From life’s happiest moments to the most challenging ones, Foster Massengill, PLLC is here to provide the guidance you need to resolve your family’s legal issues as smoothly and amicably as possible. We are committed to providing exceptional, personalized representation every step of the way and are here to serve you. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.