As a Texas attorney with two decades of experience exclusively in family law, I am always on the lookout for things that can positively impact the lives of my clients as they go through the painful process of divorce. And it's not often that I can find positive impact from the actions of the Texas Legislature. But recently, the "Distinguished Gentlepersons" up in Austin got something right. A small change to the Texas Family Code caught my attention, and I believe it will greatly improve the timely relief of temporary matters in divorce litigation. For those curious about such matters, here are the details of this new provision and what I believe will be the positive impact it will have for couples navigating the challenging waters of divorce in Texas. The New Provision: With the passage of Texas House Bill 2671, beginning September 1, 2023, the Texas Family Code will now include § 105.001(a-1), which addresses Temporary Orders in family law matters. This newly added subsection offers a solution to a common problem faced by divorcing couples: the delay in obtaining temporary relief due to referrals to mediation. The Change: Before this change, when a court referred a divorce case to mediation and a motion for a temporary order was pending, the initial hearing on that motion could be postponed to a later date (sometimes a much later date of 60 days or more), leading to unnecessary delays in resolving urgent matters. However, the new provision brings an essential safeguard into play. Under § 105.001(a-1), if the court, on its own motion, refers a suit for mediation where a motion for a temporary order is pending, the court cannot postpone the initial hearing on that motion beyond the 30th day after the original hearing date was set. This means that once a motion for temporary relief is filed, the court must address the matter and hold the initial hearing within 30 days. Enhancing Timely Relief: The implications of this change may not seem profound to most, but I believe it will mean the world of difference to people who are suffering in untenable domestic situations that need quick relief . Divorce cases often involve pressing issues such as child custody, temporary support, and property matters. Couples require swift resolution to these matters to maintain stability during the divorce process. By mandating an initial hearing within 30 days of filing the motion, this new provision ensures that temporary matters are addressed promptly. Moreover, the change promotes efficient case management and streamlines the divorce process for both parties and the court. Timely resolution of temporary matters can alleviate stress and uncertainty, allowing individuals to focus on moving forward with their lives. The addition of 105.001(a-1) to the Texas Family Code marks a small but significant step forward in enhancing timely relief of temporary matters in divorce litigation. As a family law attorney, I believe this change will have a positive impact on divorcing couples, offering them the assurance that urgent issues will be addressed promptly. Moreover, the provision reflects a commitment to efficient case management and the well-being of those navigating the complexities of divorce. The prospect of getting a divorce can be daunting, and even more so if you own a small business. When a marriage ends and both parties own a business, it can be complicated to navigate the legal and financial aspects of a divorce. What are are the top considerations for small business owners facing divorce?
Whether you are considering filing for divorce, or your spouse has already initiated the divorce process, there’s important considerations when a small business is part of the equation. If you're a business owner and one or both of you are seeking a divorce, there are some particular points of concern that you need to keep in mind. First and foremost is the value of the business itself. The court may order an appraisal of the business to determine what the fair market value is. This is so each party can receive an equitable share in the assets. If one of you was the sole owner of the business prior to marriage, the court may decide that ownership of the business isn’t subject to division but the increased value of the business is. Another point to consider is how much of your time and resources the divorce process will take up. Divorce can impact how much time and attention you can put into your business, as well as how smoothly operations run while the divorce is underway. It’s important to make sure that both parties understand their respective roles in the business during the divorce proceedings. If one or both spouses are also employed by the business, those roles need to be specified in order to ensure that everyone remains in compliance with any court orders that may be issued. If you are considering filing for divorce and are a small business owner, it’s important to seek professional counsel on how best to protect your rights and interests in the process. |
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Attorney Sean Y. Palmer has over 20 years of legal experience as a Texas Attorney and over 25 years as a Qualified Mediator in civil, family and CPS cases. Palmer practices exclusively in the area Family Law and handles Divorce, Child Custody, Child Support, Adoptions, and other Family Law Litigation cases. He represents clients throughout the greater Houston Galveston area, including: Clear Lake, NASA, Webster, Friendswood, Seabrook, League City, Galveston, Texas City, Dickinson, La Porte, La Marque, Clear Lake Shores, Bacliff, Kemah, Pasadena, Baytown, Deer Park, Harris County, and Galveston County, Texas.
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