Arlington Family Law Attorneys
Clear Strategy for What Comes Next
When family dynamics shift, you need answers, a clear understanding of your options, and a path forward. Whether you are facing a divorce, dealing with a child custody dispute, or working to protect your financial interests, navigating the Tarrant County court system can be complicated.
At Milam & Fanning, PLLC, we combine the personalized service of a focused practice with the substantial resources of an established law firm. You get clear communication, direct attention to your legal concerns, and a strategy tailored to the circumstances of your case.
You don't need a history lesson on Texas law. You need to understand your options and whether our approach is right for you.
Clients choose us for our approach to family law because:
- We take time to understand your circumstances and develop a strategy around the specific issues involved in your case.
- We explain the legal process and your options in straightforward terms so you can make informed decisions.
- You get the personal support of a focused practice backed by the substantial resources of an established law firm.
Ready to talk through your options? Call (254) 237-5602 or contact us online today. We offer free, confidential consultations, virtually or in person.
Here's What You Need to Know
If you are facing a divorce or custody issue, you likely have urgent questions about what happens next.
Where will my family law case take place?
Family law cases involving Arlington residents are generally handled through Tarrant County's family courts, which are located at the Tarrant County Family Law Center in downtown Fort Worth. The Family Law Center is located at 200 E. Weatherford St. and houses several Tarrant County family district courts.
Will I have to go to trial in front of a judge?
Not necessarily. Many family law cases are resolved through negotiation, agreements between the parties, or mediation. If the parties cannot reach an agreement on disputed issues, the case may proceed to a hearing or trial before a judge.
How quickly can we get started on my case?
We can begin reviewing your documentation, drafting necessary pleadings, and preparing court filings immediately following your initial consultation.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
Texas generally calculates child support under statutory guidelines based on a percentage of the paying parent's monthly net resources. The standard guideline percentages are 20% for one child, 25% for two children, and 30% for three children, with the guidelines currently applying to net resources up to $11,700 per month. Medical and dental support obligations may also be addressed in the order.
Can we build a customized parenting schedule instead of standard visitation?
Yes. Parents may agree to a customized parenting schedule that differs from the standard possession schedule. Depending on the circumstances, a parenting plan may address shift work, non-traditional work schedules, school activities, holidays, and other family needs. If the parents cannot agree, the court will determine possession and access based on the child's best interest.
What We Handle
- Divorce
- Child custody
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Grandparents’ rights
- Fathers’ rights
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Post-divorce modifications
- Adoption
- Domestic violence
- Guardianship
- Paternity
We Also Handle Estate Planning Alignment
Family law changes can also affect your estate plan. Following a divorce or major change in your family circumstances, we can help update wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations so your estate plan can reflect your current wishes.
Because Milam & Fanning, PLLC also handles estate planning, you can address related legal needs with a team familiar with both areas of law.
Navigating the Tarrant County Legal Landscape
Family law matters can involve complex paperwork, financial questions, parenting disputes, and difficult decisions about property and children. Understanding the applicable Texas laws and Tarrant County court procedures is an important part of preparing your case.
- Tarrant County court procedures. Certain standing orders may take effect when a family law case is filed. These orders establish rules that parties must follow while the case is pending and can address matters involving property, children, and other aspects of the dispute. Understanding the applicable orders can help you avoid unintentionally violating court requirements.
- Mediation and alternative dispute resolution. Mediation can give parties an opportunity to resolve disputed family law issues without having a judge decide every issue at trial. Depending on the case and court, mediation may be ordered or otherwise used as part of the litigation process. We help clients understand their options, evaluate proposed terms, and prepare for negotiations.
Protecting Your Financial Interests
Family law matters can have significant financial consequences, particularly when a divorce involves property division, retirement accounts, business interests, or other substantial assets. Understanding how Texas law treats your property and financial interests can help you make informed decisions as your case moves forward.
Community vs. Separate Property
Texas law generally presumes that property possessed by either spouse during or on dissolution of marriage is community property. Property owned before marriage, or acquired during marriage by gift or inheritance, may be separate property. When characterization is disputed, documentation and tracing can be important in establishing a separate-property claim.
We work to protect your separate-property rights and address disputes involving the characterization and division of marital assets.
Addressing Complex Assets
Property division can become more complicated when a family law matter involves real estate, 401(k)s, pensions, RSUs, private business interests, or other significant assets. We can work with appropriate financial and valuation professionals when needed to assess complex assets and develop a strategy based on reliable financial information.
What to Expect from the Process
Knowing what comes next can make a complicated family law matter easier to navigate.
We help you understand the process and keep your case moving forward:
- Free case strategy call. We review the facts of your situation, identify immediate priorities, and discuss your options.
- Initial court protections. Once a case is filed in the appropriate Tarrant County family court, applicable standing orders establish rules that the parties must follow while the case is pending. These orders can address matters involving property, children, and other aspects of the case.
- Financial discovery and negotiation. We gather relevant financial records and work through negotiations or mediation when appropriate to address disputed issues.
- Resolution or trial. If the parties cannot reach an agreement on disputed issues, we prepare the case for a hearing or trial and present the relevant evidence and legal arguments to the court.
You’re Not Alone
You do not have to navigate Tarrant County family court on your own. At , you receive personalized attention, clear communication, and a legal strategy tailored to the circumstances of your family law matter.
Speak directly with an experienced attorney. Call (254) 237-5602 and schedule your free initial consultation.