Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Rita Dixon Law assists individuals and families with a variety of family law matters in Frisco, Texas and surrounding communities. These questions address common concerns about divorce, custody, adoption, child support, custody and child support order modifications and related legal issues.

What family law services does Rita Dixon Law provide?

The firm assists clients with family law matters such as divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, prenuptial agreements, post marital agreements, custody and child support order modifications and other related legal issues.

What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all major issues such as property division and child custody. A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot reach agreement on every issue and the court must decide one or more issues.

How is child custody determined in Texas?

Texas courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child. The court may consider factors such as the child’s needs, the stability of each parent’s home, and each parent’s ability to provide care and support.

Can child custody arrangements be changed after a divorce?

Yes. Custody arrangements can sometimes be modified if there has been a significant change in circumstances and the modification would benefit the child.

What is child support used for?

Child support helps cover the costs associated with raising a child. These expenses may include housing, food and clothing, as well as sometimes covering education expenses and medical needs.

What is the adoption process in Texas?

Adoption is the legal process that creates a permanent parent-child relationship between the adoptive parents and the child. The process usually involves legal filings, background checks, an adoption evaluation and a court hearing to finalize the adoption.

Do biological parents have to consent to an adoption?

In many cases, consent from the biological parents is required before an adoption can be finalized. However, certain legal situations may allow adoption without consent depending on the circumstances.

How long does the adoption process usually take?

The timeline can vary depending on the type of adoption and the legal requirements involved.

What is a prenuptial agreement?

A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract created before marriage that outlines how certain financial matters, assets, and responsibilities will be handled if the marriage ends. In Texas, a prenuptial agreement is referred to as a premarital agreement.

Why do couples consider prenuptial agreements?

Couples may use prenuptial agreements to clarify financial expectations, protect certain assets, and reduce potential disputes in the future.  In Texas, a prenuptial agreement is referred to as a premarital agreement.

Are prenuptial agreements enforceable in Texas?

Yes. Prenuptial agreements can be legally enforceable in Texas when they are properly drafted and signed according to state law.  In Texas, a prenuptial agreement is referred to as a premarital agreement.

Rita Dixon Law also assists families with probate and estate administration matters in Texas. Probate is the legal process used to manage a person’s estate after they pass away.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process used to validate a will, determine the legal heirs of a deceased person if there is no will and to oversee the administration of a deceased person’s estate. This process includes identifying assets, paying debts, and distributing property to beneficiaries and/or heirs.

Do all estates go through probate in Texas?

Not every estate requires a full probate process. Some estates may qualify for simplified procedures depending on the types of assets involved.

What happens if someone passes away without a will?

If a person dies without a will, Texas law determines how their estate will be distributed. The court appoints an administrator to manage the estate and distribute assets according to state law.

What is the role of an executor?

An executor is the person named in a will who is responsible for managing the estate, paying debts, handling legal responsibilities, and distributing assets to beneficiaries.

What is guardianship?

Guardianship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints someone to make personal or financial decisions for a person who cannot manage their own affairs and who is determined to be legally incapacitated.

Personal injury law involves legal claims that arise when someone is injured because of another person’s negligence or wrongful actions.

What is considered a personal injury case?

A personal injury case occurs when a person is harmed because of another person’s careless or negligent actions. Examples may include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, or other situations where unsafe conditions cause injury.

What should I do after a personal injury accident?

Seek medical attention as soon as possible. If possible, document the accident scene, gather witness information, and keep records of medical treatment related to the incident.

How is fault determined in a personal injury case?

Fault is determined by reviewing evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, photographs, medical records, and other documentation that explains how the accident occurred.

Do personal injury cases always go to court?

Not always. Many cases are resolved through negotiations or settlements, although court proceedings may be necessary in some situations.

Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution process that allows individuals to resolve disputes without a full court trial.

What is mediation?

Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps individuals involved in a dispute communicate and work toward a mutually acceptable agreement.

How does mediation work?

During mediation, both parties meet with a mediator who guides the discussion and helps explore possible solutions. The mediator does not make decisions but helps the parties reach their own agreement.

Is mediation required in family law cases?

In many Texas family law cases, courts encourage or require mediation before a trial is scheduled. Mediation can help resolve disputes more efficiently and reduce conflict.

What happens if mediation is successful?

If both parties reach an agreement, the terms are written into a settlement agreement that can be submitted to the court for approval.

What happens if mediation does not resolve the dispute?

If mediation does not lead to an agreement, the case may continue through the traditional legal process, which may include court hearings or a trial.