There’s a mindset problem that shows up in almost every person who gets served, and I want to name it early because it costs people more than any single filing mistake I see. The mindset is this: they filed, so it’s their case, and my job is to respond to whatever they do. That’s wrong, … Read more
When you got served, you probably focused on the petition, because that’s the document with your name on it and your ex’s accusations in it. But if your case was filed in one of the many Texas counties that use them, there was another document in that stack, and it’s the one that’s going to … Read more
So you got served. Somebody knocked on your door or caught you in the parking lot at work, handed you a stack of paper, and now you’re sitting at the kitchen table trying to make sense of what just happened to your life. I’ve been in that chair myself, and I’ve walked hundreds of people … Read more
A divorce or custody case can take months to finalize, but life doesn’t pause while you wait. That’s what temporary orders are for — interim decisions about custody, possession, support, and use of property while the case is pending. Here’s how to request one and what to expect. I’m a pro se coach, not an … Read more
This is one of the most consequential parts of the Texas Family Code and one of the least understood by people representing themselves, on both sides of the allegation. Texas Family Code Section 153.004 deals with a history of family violence or sexual abuse, and it doesn’t just get factored in as one more piece … Read more
Getting served with a protective order application is stressful, and the legal process that follows moves fast. If this just happened to you, here’s a grounded look at what’s actually in front of you and how to start preparing. I’m a pro se coach, not an attorney. This is general information about how the process … Read more
Being served with a TRO in a Texas family law case is shocking — but it’s not the end. Learn what a TRO can and can’t do, why you must comply immediately, and exactly how to prepare your response before the temporary orders hearing.
Missing a Texas family law hearing can result in a default judgment, dismissed case, or contempt charges. Learn what the judge can do when you don’t appear, and exactly what to do if you’ve already missed one.
When the other party files a motion in your Texas family law case, you must respond — or risk the court granting it by default. Learn the structure, deadlines, and strategy for filing an effective response.
A CPS investigation during a Texas family law case can dramatically affect your custody outcome. Learn your rights, how the investigation process works, and how to protect yourself without making things worse.