Legal Terms in Family Law: A Glossary

Navigating the world of family law in Dallas-Fort Worth can be a challenging and emotional journey. Understanding legal terminology can empower you to make more informed decisions during your divorce, child custody battle, or other family-related legal issues in DFW.

 

 

 

 

Glossary of Family Law Terms

 

 

Alimony

Also known as spousal support, alimony is a financial arrangement where one spouse is obligated to financially support the other after a separation or divorce in Dallas-Fort Worth.

 

 

Annulment

A legal procedure that declares a marriage null and void, as if it never existed.

 

 

Best Interests of the Child

This is the standard used by DFW courts to determine custody and visitation rights, focusing on what is most beneficial for the child’s emotional, physical, and educational welfare.

 

 

Child Custody

Legal and physical responsibility for a child in Dallas-Fort Worth. Custody can be joint or sole.

 

 

Child Support

Financial support provided by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent to help cover the costs of raising a child in DFW.

 

 

Community Property

In some states, including Texas, all assets acquired during a marriage are considered equally owned by both spouses.

 

 

Contempt of Court

Failure to comply with Dallas-Fort Worth court orders, which can result in penalties like fines or even jail time.

 

 

Decree Absolute

The final divorce document that legally ends the marriage.

 

 

Equitable Distribution

A method of dividing marital assets in a way that is considered fair but not necessarily equal. This is the norm in states that do not follow community property laws.

 

 

Guardian ad Litem

A court-appointed individual in DFW who represents the best interests of a child in legal proceedings.

 

 

Legal Separation

An arrangement where a married couple lives apart but remains legally married, often pursued for religious or financial reasons.

 

 

Marital Settlement Agreement

A legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of a divorce.

 

 

No-Fault Divorce

A divorce where neither party is legally required to prove that the other spouse did something wrong leading to the divorce.

 

 

Palimony

Financial support paid to an ex-partner when the couple was not married but lived together for a significant period.

 

 

Parenting Plan

A written agreement that outlines custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and other parental responsibilities.

 

 

Prenuptial Agreement

A contract entered into before marriage that outlines the distribution of assets in case of divorce or death.

 

 

QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order)

A legal document that divides retirement plans and pensions among spouses during a divorce.

 

 

Restraining Order

A court order that limits contact between individuals, often used in cases of domestic abuse.

 

 

Visitation Rights

The legal terms outlining when a non-custodial parent may see their children.

 

 

 

 

Understanding these terms can help you navigate the complexities of family law in Texas and the Dallas Fort-Worth Metroplex more effectively. Consult with a qualified North Texas family law attorney like those at Webb Family Law Firm. P.C. for personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstances.