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Same-Sex Divorce Attorneys in Bellaire, TX
Representing LGBT+ Clients in Houston & Throughout Harris County
While legally similar to divorces among straight couples, same-sex divorces can often present unique challenges and complexities. These cases may be influenced by legal precedents, varying state laws before the nationwide legalization of same-sex marriage, and issues relating to parental rights and social stigmas. Successfully managing these intricacies requires skilled legal insight and experience in resolving cases similar to yours.
At ALP Law Firm, our attorneys and team bring compassion and competence to the Texas divorce process. We have resolved the many unique issues that can arise in these cases, from financial matters to child-related issues. Our lawyers also stay current with court rulings that can impact the same-sex divorce process. We are here to provide the legal guidance and support you need to navigate your divorce, protect your rights, and work diligently to help you seek the most favorable outcome.
Request a consultation with a Bellaire same-sex divorce lawyer to discuss the details of your case. Call ALP Law Firm at (346) 536-9842 or reach us online today—Hablamos español.
Same-Sex Divorce Complexities
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Texas since 2015. However, some couples may have been together for years before marriage, potentially leading to unique property ownership and division situations. Additionally, specific issues can become more intricate due to the relatively recent legal recognition of same-sex marriage.
Depending on the state, there may have been differing legal statuses for same-sex relationships before the 2015 Supreme Court ruling. Couples may have entered into civil unions, domestic partnerships, or marriages at different times and in other states, which can complicate the resolution of their legal status and division of assets.
If the couple's relationship was recognized under different legal frameworks in various states, unraveling these legal statuses and converting them into comparable terms under Texas law requires skillful legal navigation.
Premarital Assets and Debts
Sorting out assets and debts acquired before marriage can be challenging, especially if the couple cohabitated for an extended period before marriage laws changed. Texas is a community property state, but determining what constitutes "community property" can be complex.
- Commingling of finances: If the couple commingled finances during their premarital cohabitation, it can be difficult to distinguish between separate and community property. This requires meticulous examination of bank statements, investment records, and property titles.
- Title issues: Real estate or vehicles titled solely in one partner's name before marriage might be considered separate property. However, if the other partner contributed financially to the property's upkeep or mortgage payments, they might have a claim to a portion of its value.
- Estate planning considerations: Wills, trusts, and other estate documents drafted before marriage legalization may need to be revised to reflect the current situation.
- Beneficiary designations: These documents might still name a former spouse as a beneficiary, requiring an update to reflect your current wishes.
- Power of Attorney: Pre-marital documents granting medical or financial Power of Attorney to a former spouse should be reviewed and potentially revoked.
Spousal Support & Alimony
Calculating spousal support can be more intricate due to the varying lengths of legal recognition of the relationship, especially if the couple was in a long-term relationship before being able to marry legally.
Child Custody and Support
Determining custody and support arrangements can involve complex considerations, especially if one spouse is not the biological parent. Adoption records and pre-marital agreements may play a vital role.
- Non-biological parent's rights: If one spouse is not the biological parent, establishing their legal parental rights might require a second-parent adoption or relying on a pre-marital agreement outlining parental responsibilities.
- Custody arrangements: The court prioritizes the "best interests of the child" when determining custody. Factors like the child's relationship with each parent, the stability of their environment, and each parent's ability to provide care are considered.
- Child support: Texas child support calculations consider both parents' income. If one spouse is not the biological parent but financially supports the child during the marriage, they might be entitled to child support post-divorce.
- Parental rights: For couples who use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to conceive children, establishing parental rights requires careful attention to ensure both spouses' legal standing regarding the children.
- Sperm donor agreements: If a sperm donor was involved, the validity of any pre-existing agreements regarding parental rights needs to be examined.
- Surrogacy contracts: If a surrogate was involved, the contract should be reviewed to determine parental rights and responsibilities.
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Real Stories From Real People
Guiding Families Through the Legal Process With Compassion
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There are a lot of attorneys who say they will be on your side and when you hire them, they only want your money. This is not the case with Allecia. She made us feel like family and treated us with respect.- Travis L.
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Allecia was able to handle my situation given that my now ex-husband is a narcissist. The more he prolong or delay the divorce process, Allecia was able to work around that behavior to ensure the completion and satisfaction of the divorce.- Jessica T.
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Mrs. Pottinger's attention to detail, application of wisdom, and "honorable" service and commitment saved me hundreds to several thousands of dollars.- Demetrius A.
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I highly recommend ALP Law Firm and Attorney Allecia Pottinger to anyone seeking expert legal guidance in divorce, child custody, or family law matters in Houston.- Brian A.
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ALP Law Firm was very knowledgeable and helpful in my divorce case. Although it was a little complicated, they helped explain things to me and put me at ease.- Chris V.
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I’m very happy with everything here. This a a brutally honest team that will help you understand what is going to happen, as well as what is happening.- Gerald W.
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She is kind, compassionate and fair. I had the pleasure of really getting to know her during my time with her in mediation and she is a beautiful soul, she truly loves what she does and fights hard and advocates for her clients.- Denise M.
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Ms. Allecia was a great help to me when it came to my divorce. I live in Wichita Falls, TX and my ex lived in Houston where he filed. I had to get a lawyer in the Houston area and communicated via email. We got it done.- Kim P.
Why Choose a Same-Sex Divorce Attorney at ALP Law Firm?
Our team is experienced in the above complexities and brings a keen understanding of the legal and financial aspects of same-sex divorce in Texas. We can develop a tailored strategy to address your case's specific needs and goals.
Whether navigating the complications of dividing assets acquired before marriage or representing your parental interests, we work to provide vigilant advocacy in every issue pertinent to your divorce.
Our team understands the emotional challenges of divorce and can work assertively on your behalf to make the process as smooth as possible. Our mission is to leave you on the other side of divorce with the ability to move forward confidently with a new chapter of life.
Submit our online contact form or call (346) 536-9842 to schedule a consultation with a Bellaire same-sex divorce lawyer.
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Our Commitment
What You Can Expect Working with ALP Law Firm
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Fierce AdvocacyOur attorneys are relentless in their pursuit of justice for you and your family, employing strategic legal tactics to achieve the best possible outcomes.
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Client-Centered ApproachYou're not just a case number to us. We prioritize your well-being and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
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Decades of Combined ExperienceOur team offers unparalleled experience and a deep understanding of family law, to provide you with the best possible representation.
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Empathetic GuidanceWith firsthand experience in navigating complex family law issues, our team offers empathetic guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
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Accessibility and ResponsivenessWe understand the importance of timely communication, and our team is readily available to address your questions and provide updates on your case.
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Providing Service in SpanishWe are dedicated to serving the diverse community in Houston and providing accessible, compassionate legal assistance to Spanish-speaking clients.