Divorce and child custody cases are emotional. There is no way around it. When you’re navigating one of the most difficult periods of your life, it’s natural to have questions, frustrations, and moments where you simply need someone to talk to.
At Smart & Malone Family Law Group, we genuinely care about our clients. We want you to feel supported throughout your case. But it’s also important to understand the role of your legal team—and how using that role effectively can help you achieve better results while keeping your legal fees under control.
What You Should Ask Your Family Law Attorney
Our attorneys are advisors. Our job is to provide legal guidance, protect your rights, negotiate on your behalf, and advocate for your interests in court.
Some excellent questions to ask your attorney include:
- How does Texas law apply to my situation?
- Should I accept or reject a settlement offer?
- What are the risks of going to trial?
- What evidence should I gather?
- How should I respond to something filed by the other side?
- What can I expect at my next hearing?
- What are my rights regarding custody, child support, or property division?
- What should I do if the other parent violates our court order?
- How should I communicate with the opposing party?
These are legal questions that require legal analysis and strategic advice. Not all answers are the same for every case. We must apply your specific facts and circumstances to provide you with a precise response.
Other Professionals Can Provide Additional Services Alongside Your Legal Representation
While we understand that emotions often accompany family law cases, attorneys and paralegals are not trained mental health professionals, financial planners, or life coaches. There are times when our attorneys can have other professionals in those fields work in tandem with us if their services are needed in your case.
While we can certainly provide feedback about personal questions and offer advice, there are conversations concerning topics such as:
- Whether you should start dating.
- Whether you should reconcile with your spouse.
- How to respond emotionally to a text message.
- Processing feelings of anger, grief, or betrayal.
- Venting about your ex for extended periods.
- Deciding whether to quit your job or move.
- Parenting disagreements that do not involve legal issues.
…that can quickly increase your legal bill without moving your case forward.
In many situations, a licensed therapist, counselor, financial advisor, or trusted support network is better equipped to help you navigate these important—but non-legal—issues.
Emergencies Are Different
Some situations require immediate legal attention.
Contact your attorney promptly if:
- You have been served with new court papers.
- You receive notice of a hearing.
- The other parent has withheld your child.
- Someone has violated a court order.
- You discover hidden assets or important evidence.
- There are concerns about your child’s immediate safety.
- Opposing counsel contacts you directly.
- You are unsure whether you should sign a legal document.
When in doubt about a legal issue that could affect your rights, it’s always better to ask. We are here to help.
Our Goal Is to Help You Resolve Your Case Efficiently
At Smart & Malone Family Law Group, we believe in being transparent with our clients about legal fees. Every dollar you spend should provide value to your case.
By focusing conversations on legal strategy and case-related questions, you allow your legal team to do what they do best—protect your interests, advocate for your family, and help you move toward the best possible outcome.
Family law is personal, and we know emotions are part of the journey. We encourage our clients to build a strong support system that may include family, friends, counselors, and therapists, while relying on their attorney for experienced legal advice and advocacy.
Working together this way helps ensure your legal fees are spent where they matter most—advancing your case and achieving your goals.
