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Family Law
When Family Life Falls Apart, You Need Someone Who Knows What to Do Next
You do not have to have everything figured out before you call. I will help you identify where to start and what your options are — in English or Spanish.
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Family Law Covers Some of the Most Personal Decisions You Will Ever Make
A criminal conviction carries consequences beyond prison time and fines. For non-citizens, those consequences can include deportation, loss of permanent residency, or permanent bars to future immigration benefits. These immigration consequences are separate from the criminal penalties — and they are often more severe.
Because I practice both criminal defense and immigration law, I can assess and address both sides of your case at the same time. You do not need two attorneys, two consultations, or two separate strategies. I handle the full picture.
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What I Handle
Divorce
Texas is a community property state, which means the assets you and your spouse built together during the marriage are divided under specific legal rules. In Corpus Christi and the surrounding area, that can include oil and gas royalties, offshore employment income, maritime work schedules, and other assets that require careful analysis. I handle both contested and uncontested divorces and work to reach outcomes that reflect what you actually contributed to the marriage.
Texas courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child — a standard that considers each parent's involvement, the child's home environment, and a range of other factors. Whether you are negotiating a parenting plan or litigating a contested custody dispute, I represent your interests and your relationship with your children at every stage.
Child Custody
Spousal Support
Not every divorce involves spousal support, but when it does, the terms matter significantly. I help clients understand when support is appropriate under Texas law and advocate for fair terms — whether you are seeking support or contesting it.
If you are in a dangerous situation, this is the service you need to know about first. A protective order can remove an abusive person from your home, prohibit contact, and create legal consequences for violations. I help clients obtain emergency and final protective orders quickly and with as little exposure as possible during the process.
Protective Orders
Adoption and Guardianship
Expanding your family through adoption or establishing legal guardianship for a child or adult involves court filings, background checks, and procedural requirements that vary by situation. I guide families through the process from start to finish.
A legal name change requires a court order in Texas. Whether you are changing your name after a divorce, updating records to match a naturalization application, or pursuing a name change for another reason, I handle the filing and court appearance on your behalf.
Name Changes
If You Are an Immigrant Facing a Family Law Matter, You Have Additional Considerations
Immigration status is not a factor Texas courts are permitted to use in child custody decisions. Your status alone does not determine the outcome of your case. But it does interact with family law in ways that matter — international travel restrictions for children, passport control in custody orders, and modification proceedings that involve a parent in another country.
Because I practice both family law and immigration law, I can address both sides of that intersection without sending you to a second attorney. If your family law matter touches your immigration status, I will identify it and account for it in your representation.
Your Spouse Has an Attorney. Your Interests Deserve Representation Too.
In a contested divorce or custody case, an unrepresented party faces a real disadvantage. Deadlines get missed. Rights go unasserted. Agreements get signed without understanding what they give up. If your spouse has legal representation, the most important thing you can do is get your own.
I have been practicing family law for 14 years. I know how these cases move, what the other side is likely to argue, and how to build a position that holds up in court.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Texas
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How long does a divorce take in Texas?
In Texas, misdemeanors are the less severe category of criminal offense and are punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines. Felonies are more serious charges that carry potential state prison sentences ranging from 180 days to life, depending on the degree. Both categories carry collateral consequences — including effects on employment, housing, and immigration status — that extend well beyond the sentence itself.
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What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce in Texas?
That depends on the value of your home, your belongings, and your level of risk. We’ll help you calculate replacement costs and liability needs to ensure you’re fully protected without overpaying.
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How does Texas determine child custody?
Yes. I am on the Criminal Justice Panel Act for the Southern District of Texas and I handle federal criminal defense, including drug charges, firearms offenses, and white-collar cases. Federal cases require a different level of preparation and experience than state cases, and I have both.
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Can my immigration status affect my custody case?
Yes, independent agencies work with several insurance carriers. This allows clients to compare coverage options through one agency rather than contacting insurers individually.
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Do I need an attorney for a protective order in Texas?
You can apply for a protective order without an attorney, but having legal representation significantly improves the process. An attorney can help you gather the documentation the court needs, prepare you for the hearing, and make sure the order is drafted to cover your specific situation. If the person you are seeking protection from has an attorney, you should have one too.
Ready to Talk Through Your Situation?
Family law matters are some of the most difficult cases I handle — and some of the most important. Whether you are just beginning to think about your options or you are already facing a court date, I am ready to help. Call my office or submit the contact form and I will follow up promptly.
