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It is not uncommon for people to find themselves contending with an unforeseen legal issue. Regardless of the specific nature of the concern, it is prudent for people dealing with a legal matter to speak with a skilled attorney who can assess the facts of their case and advise them on their rights and options. The dedicated attorneys at Powell Law Offices are adept at handling a variety of issues, including family law cases, bankruptcy filings, and the creation of wills and trusts. Our Dallas Fort Worth family lawyers are skilled at navigating the Texas courts and will tirelessly pursue your desired outcome.

Many people carry some amount of debt toward which they make payments each month. Circumstances can change, however, and debt can rapidly become insurmountable. If you find yourself unable to pay your bills despite your best efforts, you may be eligible for relief via bankruptcy. Typically, people file for bankruptcy under either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the bankruptcy code. Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, is only available to people who can establish that they lack sufficient means to pay the debt that they owe. Chapter 7 bankruptcy permits debtors to liquidate assets to eliminate debts. Conversely, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which is known as reorganization bankruptcy, allows debtors to keep their assets and pay back their debts over three to five years.

The process of ending a marriage can be both emotionally and legally complicated. It is crucial for anyone contemplating a divorce to consult a family attorney in Dallas Fort Worth who can explain the process. Each party’s obligations and rights in a divorce action and other family law matters are set forth by the Texas Family Code. For example, the code provides that Texas uses an equitable distribution system. This means that any property that the court deems to be marital property will be divided in a manner that the court determines to be fair and just. Additionally, if a couple that is divorcing has a child, the court will determine a division of legal custody, which is called conservatorship in Texas, and physical custody, which is called possession. The key concern in this analysis is the best interests of the child.

Estate planning not only lets people decide how any property or assets that they own will be disbursed in the event of their death but also allows people to take measures to protect themselves while they are still living. For example, a person can draft a living will setting forth the care that he or she wishes to receive if he or she is unable to make his or her own health care decisions. Or, in some cases, it might be advisable for a person to grant another individual power of attorney to allow the individual to make health care and financial decisions for them. People with significant property may wish to form a trust to protect their assets for future generations. The appropriate measures will depend on a person’s unique needs. In addition to guiding people through bankruptcy and serving as Dallas Fort Worth family attorneys, the team at Powell Law Offices can craft an estate planning strategy that fits your goals.

When a person dies, the process of paying his or her debts and distributing any assets is known as probate. Probate is required in many cases in which a person dies with a will. First, someone must file for probate in the county in which the deceased person resided. The court will then verify that the will is valid and appoint an administrator or executor. After the court names an administrator or executor, it will catalog any assets owned by the deceased person and identify their heirs. The court will also notify creditors and allow them to make claims for unpaid debts. Once all of the debts are paid, the court will resolve any will contests and distribute any remaining assets in accordance with the terms of the will.

If you find yourself faced with a legal issue, it is in your best interest to meet with an experienced professional to discuss your path for seeking a successful result. At Powell Law Offices, our attorneys will listen to your story and craft a strategy specific to you. We have offices located in Grapevine and McKinney, and we represent people throughout Dallas and Tarrant Counties. You can contact us at (972) 584-9382 or via our form online to schedule a free appointment with a family lawyer in Dallas Fort Worth or seek guidance in a bankruptcy, estate planning, or probate matter.