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Divorce Attorney Serving the Houston Heights and Montrose Areas

Divorce Attorney Serving the Houston Heights and Montrose Areas

  • Montrose Houston TX Divorce Attorney

Divorce is a life-changing event that affects every aspect of a person’s life, from finances to family dynamics. Whether a divorce is amicable or contested, the process can be complex, emotional, and legally challenging. Having an experienced divorce attorney by your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment under Texas law.

For residents of The Heights and Montrose—two of Houston’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods—The Renken Law Firm provides personalized, results-driven legal representation. We understand the unique needs of individuals and families in these areas and are dedicated to guiding our clients through the divorce process with clarity and confidence.

Understanding Divorce in Texas

Texas is a community property state, meaning that most assets acquired during the marriage are presumed to belong equally to both spouses. However, that does not necessarily mean that everything will be split fifty-fifty. The court considers many factors when dividing property, such as the financial situation of each spouse, contributions to the marriage, and whether one spouse engaged in misconduct that harmed the marital estate.

Divorces in Texas generally fall into one of two categories: uncontested and contested.

  • Uncontested divorce: When both spouses agree on all terms, including property division, child custody, and financial support, the process can be faster and less expensive.
  • Contested divorce: When disputes arise over key issues, litigation may be necessary. This can prolong the process and increase legal costs, making experienced legal representation essential.

At The Renken Law Firm, we provide comprehensive divorce and family law services to residents of The Heights and Montrose, offering both litigation and mediation options to fit each client’s needs.

Divorce and Family Law Services for the LGBTQ+ Community

Montrose has long been known as Houston’s cultural hub for the LGBTQ+ community, and many same-sex couples and LGBTQ+ individuals call both Montrose and The Heights home. While same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide since 2015, divorce laws in Texas sometimes present unique challenges for LGBTQ+ couples, particularly when it comes to property division and parental rights.

One of the most significant legal issues LGBTQ+ couples face in divorce is the division of community property when a couple has been together for many years but was only legally married after the 2015 Supreme Court ruling. Texas courts do not recognize common-law marriage retroactively for same-sex couples, which means assets acquired before the legal marriage date may not be considered community property. This can create significant financial challenges for individuals who contributed to a long-term relationship without the benefit of marital protections.

Another challenge involves child custody and parental rights. In many cases, same-sex couples grow their families through adoption, surrogacy, or assisted reproduction. If both parents are not legally recognized as parents—such as when one spouse is a biological parent and the other is not—custody disputes can become complicated. Ensuring that both parents have legal parental rights before a divorce is crucial, as Texas law prioritizes biological and legally recognized parental ties.

At The Renken Law Firm, we are committed to providing inclusive and informed legal representation for LGBTQ+ individuals navigating divorce. Our attorneys understand the legal complexities that same-sex couples may face and work to protect our clients’ rights while securing fair divorce settlements.

Helping Fathers Protect Their Rights in Divorce

Fathers often face unique legal challenges in divorce, particularly when it comes to child custody and parental rights. While Texas law does not automatically favor one parent over the other, historical biases sometimes result in fathers receiving less parenting time than they deserve.

Texas courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, which means both parents have an opportunity to seek custody or equal parenting time. However, fathers often must take extra steps to demonstrate their involvement in their child’s life, particularly if they were not the primary caregiver during the marriage.

Key issues that fathers often encounter in divorce include:

  • Child custody and visitation: Many fathers worry about losing meaningful time with their children after divorce. We work to ensure that fathers are granted fair parenting schedules that reflect their role in their child’s life.
  • Paternity issues: If a father is not legally recognized as the child’s parent, they may need to establish paternity before pursuing custody or visitation rights. This is particularly relevant in cases where a child was born outside of marriage.
  • Child support concerns: Fathers paying child support need to ensure that the amount is fair and reflective of both parents’ financial situations. If a father experiences job loss or financial hardship, modifications to child support may be necessary.

At The Renken Law Firm, we advocate for fathers in divorce and family law cases. We believe that children benefit from having both parents actively involved in their lives and fight to ensure that fathers are given the legal recognition and parenting time they deserve.

The Benefits of Mediation in Divorce

For many couples, mediation offers a more peaceful and cost-effective alternative to traditional divorce litigation. Instead of going to court, mediation allows spouses to work with a neutral third-party mediator to negotiate the terms of their divorce. This process encourages cooperation and gives both parties more control over the outcome.

One of the most significant advantages of mediation is that it encourages a problem-solving approach rather than an adversarial one. When couples litigate their divorce, they often engage in heated disputes that can create lasting resentment. Mediation, on the other hand, provides a structured environment where both spouses can voice their concerns and work together to find mutually beneficial solutions. This approach is particularly valuable for divorcing parents who need to co-parent effectively in the future.

Some of the key benefits of mediation include:

  • Less conflict: Mediation reduces hostility and encourages spouses to work together to reach agreements.
  • Cost savings: Mediation is typically less expensive than litigation, as it avoids the high costs of prolonged court proceedings.
  • Faster resolution: Mediation can be completed in weeks or months, whereas a contested divorce can take a year or more in court.
  • Privacy: Unlike court cases, which are public record, mediation sessions remain private and confidential.

Mediation is especially beneficial for parents who want to co-parent effectively after divorce. By resolving disputes amicably, parents can establish a positive working relationship that benefits their children. This cooperative dynamic not only helps reduce stress for the parents but also creates a more stable and secure environment for the children, minimizing the emotional toll of the divorce process.

Additionally, mediation allows couples to create customized solutions that work for their unique circumstances. Unlike litigation, where a judge makes the final decision, mediation lets couples craft agreements that better reflect their individual priorities and family needs. This can be particularly useful when dividing assets, determining child custody arrangements, and outlining spousal support agreements.

At The Renken Law Firm, we offer divorce mediation services for residents of The Heights and Montrose. Our experienced attorneys help guide couples through productive negotiations, ensuring that agreements are legally sound and in their best interests. We understand that divorce can be difficult, but mediation provides a pathway to a more amicable and efficient resolution.

Property Division and Financial Considerations in Divorce

Dividing assets in a divorce can be one of the most complex and contested aspects of the process. Texas law requires an equitable division of community property, but equitable does not always mean equal. Courts consider many factors, including:

  • Each spouse’s financial situation and earning potential
  • Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking and raising children
  • Whether one spouse supported the other’s career or education
  • The age and health of each spouse
  • Any evidence of financial misconduct, such as hiding assets

For individuals with high-value assets, such as business interests, real estate, or significant investments, the property division process requires careful legal strategy. At The Renken Law Firm, we work with financial professionals and forensic accountants when necessary to ensure that all assets are properly valued and fairly divided.

One critical aspect of property division is distinguishing between community and separate property. Community property includes most assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property consists of assets owned before the marriage, inheritances, or gifts received by one spouse. However, separate property can sometimes become commingled with community property, making it difficult to distinguish ownership. A skilled attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure that your financial rights are protected.

Another important consideration is debt division. Just as assets must be divided equitably, so must marital debts. This can include mortgages, credit card balances, student loans, and other financial obligations. Courts will assess which debts were incurred for the benefit of the marriage and how they should be fairly allocated between the spouses.

In high-asset divorces, retirement accounts and investment portfolios also play a crucial role in financial settlements. Pensions, 401(k) accounts, and stock options may need to be divided, and failing to handle these assets properly can result in significant tax consequences. Having an experienced divorce attorney who understands the financial intricacies of property division can ensure that you receive a fair settlement and avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts

Divorce is never easy, but having the right attorney can make the process more manageable and less stressful. Whether you are facing a high-conflict divorce, a complex property division, a child custody dispute, or seeking mediation, The Renken Law Firm is here to provide the guidance and legal representation you need.

For individuals in The Heights and Montrose, we offer tailored legal strategies to protect your rights and help you transition into the next chapter of your life. We are also proud to serve LGBTQ+ individuals and fathers navigating the divorce process, ensuring that their parental rights and financial interests are fully protected.

If you are considering divorce in Houston, contact The Renken Law Firm today. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys to discuss your case and explore your options. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate support while aggressively advocating for the best possible outcome in your divorce proceedings.

No matter how complex your situation may be, we are committed to finding the best legal solutions for your needs. From mediation to litigation, we help our clients take control of their future and move forward with clarity, confidence, and security. Let The Renken Law Firm be your trusted partner in navigating the challenges of divorce and securing a fair resolution.

Renken Law Firm, PLLC
11500 Northwest Fwy #586
Houston, TX 77092
(713) 956-6767
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Renken Law Firm knows how difficult and painful dealing with these issues can be. We will take your case, and all the turmoil that comes with it, very seriously. You can trust us to not only be relentless in our pursuit of the best possible solution for you, but we will also take into consideration how much this process is both emotionally and financially impacting you. Renken Law Firm can be relentless, but you can always trust us to listen.

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Parents are also obligated to provide health and dental insurance for their children in Texas.The court can order either parent to enroll a child on an existing health insurance policy but customarily orders the child support obligor to do so or to reimburse the cost of the health and dental care premium to the primary custodian of the child.While the terms alimony and spousal maintenance are often used interchangeably, they are very different things under Texas law.They both achieve the same goal during a divorce, however.They both allow one spouse to receive financial support from the other.Renken Law Firm understands the distinction between alimony and spousal maintenance.Our understanding of the difference between these two means of financial support allows us to pursue an outcome that best meets your needs.Along with her ability to aggressively litigate Family Law matters, Dawn Renken is a Licensed Mediator through ADR Services International Inc, since 2014. Traditionally, mediation has been shown to be an excellent option for couples seeking an amicable divorce who ultimately have compatible goals for property settlements and custody disputes.Mediation promotes a compromise that works well for both parties, while making it possible to avoid court appearances and additional attorney’s fees.What is Divorce Mediation?Divorce mediation is a private process in which a neutral third person (a mediator) helps divorcing couples reach a mutually satisfactory settlement of the issues in their case, including child support, custody and visitation, alimony, and property division.A mediator does not act as a judge, arbitrator, or counselor, but assists the spouses in reaching a voluntary agreement.Along with her ability to aggressively litigate Family Law matters, Dawn Renken is a Licensed Mediator through ADR Services International Inc, since 2014. Traditionally, mediation has been shown to be an excellent option for couples seeking an amicable divorce who ultimately have compatible goals for property settlements and custody disputes. Mediation promotes a compromise that works well for both parties, while making it possible to avoid court appearances and additional attorney’s feesDivorce mediation is an affordable and private divorce option, mediation also has a proven history for helping families resolve disputes without the need for a trial. Taking your case to trial typically will increase the amount of time, money, and stress involved in your divorce.While no divorce method is completely stress free, divorce mediation allows both parties to have their needs represented. The divorcing couple will be given the chance to work together to reach an amicable resolution in their case, instead of allowing a judge to have the final say.Dawn Renken, became a licensed mediator through ADR Services International Inc. in 2014. Since this time, Attorney Renken has been working as a Cypress divorce mediation expert with couples to help them work together to reach divorce agreements that are mutually beneficial for their long term needs.The role of the mediator is to simply ensure all important matters are discussed and dealt with, as well as ensure neither party is using bully tactics in order to get the other party to agree to the terms they desire for their divorce. Your divorce agreement is only finalized when both parties agree to the terms of the divorce and sign off on it. If you are unable to work together to reach an amicable divorce agreement, mediation will not be a viable method for divorce. If you and your spouse are actively looking to work through your divorce together, Renken Law Firm can help by offering affordable divorce mediation in Houston, TX.In addition to traditional divorce methods, we excel in providing the best divorce mediation services in Houston, TX. Divorce mediation offers a more cost-effective and private approach, allowing the divorcing parties to determine the final terms of their divorce. To explore this option further, we encourage you to contact our office and learn more about our mediation services.Renken Law Firm understands that many individuals hesitate to initiate the divorce process due to uncertainty and concerns about excessive legal fees. We assure you that our Houston, TX team is dedicated to your success and has a proven track record of achieving client satisfaction.We recognize the emotional toll that divorce takes on families, and we strive to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether your case involves mediated or contested divorce, our attorneys will provide unwavering support every step of the way until your divorce is finalized. Take the first steps toward filing for divorce in the state of Texas by scheduling a consultation with our legal team at Renken Law Firm today.Is Texas an At-Fault State?In the state of Texas, divorce proceedings do not require spouses to provide a specific reason or cause for seeking the divorce, making it a “no-fault” state. However, it is important to note that if one spouse is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage, it may be considered by the court when dividing property. This means that the at-fault party may be responsible for providing more to the other spouse. Although fault grounds are not mandatory, it is advisable for spouses to include them in their divorce petition.At Renken Law Firm, our mission is to advocate for families and help them make the best decisions for their unique circumstances. Our top priority is protecting the best interests of any children involved in the divorce. Our dedicated legal team is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for you and your family. Whether you are contemplating filing for divorce or currently going through the process, contact Renken Law Firm for assistance. We will guide you through this challenging time and ensure that you consider all significant factors that may impact your finances or family dynamics. Reach out to us today to learn more about our comprehensive family law services and how we can support you.The Renken Law Firm has worked hard to earn a reputation for efficiently practicing diligent and focused legal services. During the course of our representation, you can expect expert legal advice in the areas of divorce, separation planning, custody disputes, child support cases, grandparents rights, prenuptial agreements, attorney general cases and enforcement actions.Receive prompt service and protect your rights by contacting us to schedule an appointment. In times of personal crisis we understand that you want answers. As your legal counsel, this firm will provide you with answers and options. Additionally, we will guide you through what you can expect during the process and help you to understand your options and rights as mandated by Texas Law. Our knowledge and experience has provided us with a strong base of strategies and methods to assist you to reach a successful resolution. Once retained, we invite you to demand and expect your case to be handled in an organized, timely, effective and cost-efficient manner. Step 1: Consult Contact Renken Law Firm to schedule your no obligation one hour consultation to evaluate your case. Step 2: Prepare You’ve never been through this. We understand that. We are here for you. Step 3: Negotiate Whether informal negotiation or mediation, you can trust Renken Law Firm’s decades of experience. Step 4: Litigate When negotiation fails, Renken Law Firm is prepared to fight for you at trial with experienced litigators. Your family law case may be the most important legal issue you ever face in your life. It can also be the most emotionally and financially challenging life event you experience. Renken Law Firm knows how difficult and painful dealing with these issues can be. We will take your case, and all the turmoil that comes with it, very seriously. You can trust us to not only be relentless in our pursuit of the best possible solution for you, but we will also take into consideration how much this process is both emotionally and financially impacting you. Renken Law Firm can be relentless, but you can always trust us to listen. © 2023 The Renken Law Firm. All rights reserved. Our comprehensive family law services include the resolution of divorces through litigation, divorce mediation or collaborative law, depending on the specific details of your case. We can take on all matters related to Divorce Practice or dissolution of a common law marriage, including: We are committed to aggressively and efficiently advocating for your rights . We customize our representation to the needs of your case. Throughout the process, we will keep you involved. We will provide honest information about the progress of your case and strive to achieve the best possible outcome. Enforcing Texas Orders Renken Law Firm, PLLC represent clients seeking to enforce the terms of a divorce decree or custody order. You may need to seek to enforce an order when the other parent has failed to pay their court ordered child support or if you have been denied visitation with your child. We have extensive experience with both seeking relief for these types of issues and also defending against these types of cases. Having an experienced lawyer who has handled both sides of the issue provides you a unique attorney who can reasonably anticipate what the other side may attempt to do. If the non-custodial parent refuses to pay court ordered child support or you have been denied visitation, contact us. If you have been accused of nonpayment or denying the opposing party visitation, a possible contempt outcome is jail time. Do not go to court alone, contact Renken Law Firm, PLLC. Enforcement for Delinquent Child Support Child support arrearages not only can lead to wage garnishment, property liens and loss of tax refunds, they can also result in loss of your license to drive, fish, hunt, sell real estate, teach or practice medicine. Whether your problem involves modification or enforcement of family law rights, our lawyers can advise and represent you. Enforcement / Contempt of Court Actions When a parent refuses to honor visitation orders, fails to pay child support or fails to comply with other court orders, the parent is in contempt of court. In most circumstances, it is important that a child is supported by and has meaningful relationships with both parents. That is why it is so important to follow custody, visitation and support arrangements. Failure to do so can jeopardize the child’s well being. If a parent willfully and recklessly avoided complying with orders when it was feasible to do so, the parent may be charged criminally with contempt and could face potential jail time, fines and other consequences. Our attorneys help clients pursue court orders of enforcement. We also defend against actions where enforcement or contempt cases are brought against you unjustly or for spite. Child Support Enforcement Actions If you are facing a child support enforcement action initiated by the Attorney General, Renken Law Firm, PLLC can answer the complaint and try to transfer your case to family court, where your options for a realistic payment plan will be somewhat broader. If you are the parent trying to enforce the terms of a divorce or paternity child support order, we can help ensure that your right to payment is brought current as quickly as possible.