Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLCWarmbrodt & Associates, PLLC2026-06-04T14:41:43Zhttps://www.wrattorney.net/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1303410/2023/05/cropped-wa-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[Co-parents can enjoy parenting time virtually, too]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566652026-06-04T14:41:43Z2026-06-04T14:40:51ZWhen parents think about parenting time, they often picture weekends, holidays and in-person time spent with their kids. These are valid expectations. However, modern technology has created new ways for parents to stay connected with their children even when they are apart.
Virtual parenting time can help strengthen parent-child relationships between scheduled stretches of in-person parenting time. Virtual parenting time typically involves communication through video calls, phone calls, messaging platforms or other electronic means. While it does not replace face-to-face interaction, it can provide meaningful opportunities for parents and children to maintain regular contact and emotional connection when they are apart.
Making virtual visitation work for families
A child who cannot physically see a parent for several days or weeks may still benefit from regular video chats, bedtime stories, homework help or simple daily conversations.Frequent contact can help younger children maintain consistent familiarity with each of their parents and with their routine. Reading a favorite book together over video, sharing drawings or discussing daily activities can help children feel connected to both parents.Older children and teenagers may enjoy different types of virtual interaction. Video calls, online games, shared playlists, movie watch parties and casual conversations about school, sports or hobbies can help maintain strong relationships even when schedules become complicated.Many courts and parenting plans now recognize the value of electronic communication between parents and children. Some custody agreements specifically address virtual parenting time by outlining when calls may occur, how long they should last and which communication platforms may be used. Clear expectations are often necessary, but once they’re set, these arrangements can be meaningful for parents and kids alike. ]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[Crucial facts to know before signing a prenuptial agreement]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566622026-05-20T16:17:32Z2026-05-20T16:17:32ZA prenuptial agreement is a legal contract created before marriage that outlines how assets, debts and financial matters may be handled if the marriage ends. While many people associate prenups with wealthy couples, they can also benefit anyone who wants financial clarity and protection.
Entering into a prenup should never feel rushed or one-sided. Understanding the agreement fully before signing can help both parties avoid misunderstandings and future disputes.
1. Understand what the agreement covers
A prenuptial agreement may address property ownership, business interests, debts, savings, inheritance rights and financial responsibilities during the marriage. It can also clarify how assets may be divided in the event of divorce.
2. Give yourself enough time to review it
Timing can play an important role in whether a prenup is considered valid. Presenting an agreement shortly before a wedding may raise concerns about pressure or a lack of proper review.Both individuals should have adequate time to examine the terms carefully, ask questions and discuss possible revisions before signing the document.
3. Ensure full financial disclosure
A strong prenuptial agreement is usually based on honesty and transparency. Both parties should openly disclose major assets, debts, income sources and financial obligations.Failing to provide accurate financial information can create future disputes and may weaken the enforceability of the agreement.
4. Consider proper documentation and communication
Clear communication during the process can help avoid confusion later. Some couples also choose to document the signing process to show that both parties signed voluntarily and understood the agreement.A prenuptial agreement should create security rather than conflict. Seeking reliable legal guidance before signing can help ensure the agreement reflects both parties’ interests fairly and complies with applicable laws.
]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[Should you try to keep the family home in your divorce?]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566612026-05-06T10:04:08Z2026-05-06T10:04:08ZFew things have more sentimental value than the family home. Each room and the yard surrounding it hold special memories of children, family gatherings and special occasions.
But deciding whether to keep the house isn't just a sentimental choice; it's also a financial and legal one. It's important to consider if holding onto it truly aligns with your long-term goals.
What are the options?
Texas is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during your marriage, including the family home, are subject to division. However, courts aim for a division that is"just and right," which doesn't necessarily mean a 50/50 split. One spouse may be awarded the home, but other assets typically offset its value. Keeping the home may mean giving up other property or a greater share of the retirement investments.The question is less about whether you want the house and more about whether you can realistically afford it on your own.As you already know, owning a home involves more than a mortgage payment. You also need to consider property taxes, homeowners' insurance, utilities, maintenance and repairs. If your income can't comfortably cover these costs, keeping the home may strain your budget.A home may be one of your most valuable assets, but it's not a liquid one. In some cases, selling the home and dividing the proceeds can provide financial flexibility. You may find that having funds available is more useful for covering expenses or rebuilding your life after divorce.There may be situations where keeping the family home makes sense. If you have sufficient income to manage the costs, or staying in the home provides stability for children still living there, it may be a practical choice. Holding onto the house may also be worth considering if it's expected to appreciate in value and fits your long-term financial goals.Deciding whether tokeep the family home in a divorce is rarely straightforward. Speaking with a legal representative can help you evaluate your options and understand the full impact of your decision.
]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[What assets can prenuptial agreement protect in case of divorce?]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566602026-04-28T14:53:28Z2026-04-28T14:53:28ZHow a prenup defines what stays separate
A carefully written agreement can explain how contributions, income and growth apply during the marriage. It may also identify which assets remain individually owned. Common examples of properties include:
Property owned before marriage: Homes, savings or investments brought into the relationship may remain separate.
Business interests: Ownership stakes, profits and growth can stay tied to the original owner.
Retirement funds: Spouses may define how contributions and income apply, even though Texas follows community property rules that often treat earnings during marriage as shared.
Gifts and inheritances: Family assets can remain with the intended recipient.
Property for children from prior relationships: Parents can pair the agreement with estate planning tools to protect assets intended for those children.
In Texas, these prenuptial agreements take effect once the marriage begins. They generally carry legal weight when they meet the requirements. They also allow both spouses to decide how they will manage property during the marriage and divide certain assets if it ends.
How early planning influences later outcomes
Specific terms often lower the risk of disputes later. Written agreements can also help you resolve financial issues more efficiently if disagreements arise.
Prenuptial planning also involves personal and long-term considerations. As a family legal matter, working with an attorney can provide insight into how each provision aligns with the law and each spouse’s goals. ]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[Do not forget these 3 expenses when determining child support.]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566562026-04-24T17:34:05Z2026-04-24T17:34:05Z parent knows that the cost of food, clothing and healthcare are only a small part of the expenses that come with raising a child. But a failure to address additional expenses during divorce negotiations can mean any “extras” are not accounted for. Parents are wise to take these additional expenses into consideration and discuss them before they finalize their divorce.
The following will provide some guidance on three of the most commonly forgotten expenses.
#1: Extracurriculars
If your child plays football, soccer, baseball, basketball, volleyball or any other sport, take a moment to list out all the expenses that go along with participation in that sport. This can include:
Gear. Participation in these sports requires uniforms, shoes and likely a bag to carry gear at a minimum. Many require additional specialized gear, like pads.
Club costs. Sports often do not have an off season. After the school season ends, many continue training by joining a club team. This results in additional registration and other fees.
Travel. Whether for the high school team or a club, travel is not uncommon. This can lead to additional expenses.
These expenses quickly add up - and that’s just for one sport. Many children are in multiple sports or do additional activities. Activities like orchestra can quickly become very expensive as well, especially when private lessons and the cost of the instrument are taken into account.
#2: Summer camps
From a week at a specialized camp to a full summer experience, the options for summer camps are endless. If participation in a summer camp is important, include it within these discussions.
#3: College
Although courts generally do not require parents to cover the cost of college within a child support arrangement, parents can come to this agreement. For families that want to better ensure their children have this opportunity, it is often wise to outline how the parents will handle the cost of tuition, room and board when the time comes. These are just three costs connected to raising children that are often overlooked during divorce negotiations. Parents are wise to discuss these and others that they want to prioritize. In addition to making sure children have the time to attend these activities, these discussions can also result in addition of the expenses within the child custody orders. If you have an existing court order and it does not address these issues, it is possible to modify it so that it includes guidelines that address these issues.]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[When are you no longer required to pay child support?]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566532026-04-13T10:23:48Z2026-04-13T09:44:39ZHow Texas law determines when support ends
In most cases, the law sets a clear endpoint for support. Under Texas law, your obligation usually ends when your child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. If your child is still in high school at 18, support usually continues until graduation.
In most cases, that rule applies without issue. However, certain life changes can affect that timeline. Common situations include:
Early emancipation: Your duty to pay support can end sooner if your child marries, joins the U.S. armed forces, or obtains a court order removing the disabilities of minority before age 18.
Disability: If your child has a disability that requires ongoing support, a court can order child support to continue after adulthood.
Court-ordered changes: A judge can modify or clarify a support order when the law allows it, including correcting the end date or addressing continued support in a qualifying case.
These situations show that the end date can shift based on specific legal factors. Texas law also sets rules for how courts calculate and enforce child support. Because of these rules, your obligation continues until the legal end date in the order or until the court signs a valid change.
What this means for your financial responsibilities
Reaching the usual end date does not always mean the payment process stops automatically. If you stop paying too soon, you may still owe arrears.
Courts can enforce unpaid child support even after the current support would otherwise end. Staying informed can help you avoid added financial pressure and costly mistakes. When questions arise, legal guidance can help you confirm the correct end date and decide what steps to take next. This is especially important when you need clarity about your child support payments.]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[Common challenges that Texas couples face in property division]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566492026-03-16T10:45:21Z2026-03-16T10:38:45ZDefining separate assets
Separate property is anything owned before marriage or received as a gift or inheritance. Spouses may struggle to prove these origins when they mix personal funds into joint bank accounts. Clear records must exist to overcome the community property presumption that applies to marital assets.
Valuation of the family home
Additionally, a couple can disagree on the fair market value of their primary residence during a divorce. They must decide whether to sell the property or allow one party to buy out the other's interest. Appraisals and current market trends play a vital role in these determinations.
Managing marital debt
Meanwhile, liability for debt can create more friction than the division of assets. Even if a decree assigns debt to one spouse, creditors may still pursue the other party if the joint contract remains unchanged. This reality often leads to long-term financial complications for both individuals.
Retirement and future benefits
Finally, dividing a 401(k) or a pension requires a legal document known as a Qualified Domestic Relations Order. A couple may overlook the tax implications and early withdrawal penalties associated with shifting these funds. Failure to handle these accounts correctly can result in a significant loss of retirement security.
Protecting one's rights and interests in a divorce
Property division can shape the next chapter of a person's life and their long-term stability. However, navigating the division of community property can be complex and challenging. By seeking legal advice, a spouse may better protect their interests and rights throughout the divorce process.]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[3 key assets to address in a Texas prenuptial agreement]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566442026-03-09T16:56:50Z2026-03-09T16:56:50ZAs you plan to marry, you work towards building a life together and bringing strong careers and financial success.
Under Texas law, the court assumes property acquired during marriage is community property owned by both spouses. However, a prenuptial agreement lets you set clear rules before your wealth grows.
1. Protecting a fast growing business
If you own a business before marriage, Texas law often treats it as separate property. Passive growth in value may also remain separate. However, community labor and effort during marriage can create reimbursement claims without an agreement.A prenup can reduce that risk and prevent disputes over characterization and reimbursement. A carefully drafted prenuptial agreement can clarify:
Whether future income from the business will remain separate
How ownership interests will be characterized during marriage
Whether either of you will waive reimbursement claims
These terms protect your company and create shared expectations for its future.
2. Defining high income compensation
If you earn bonuses, stock options or restricted stock units, courts often examine when and how you earned them.Compensation earned during marriage is usually community property. Vesting dates and grant dates both matter. Treatment can also depend on plan rules and whether the award rewards past work or future service.A prenup can define how you and your spouse will handle future compensation packages. This matters for high-earning professionals with complex compensation such as executives in technology, utilities or management. Clear definitions now can reduce conflict later.
3. Addressing real estate and future acquisitions
Texas presumes that property you buy during marriage is community property. That rule often applies even if one of you pays more toward the purchase. Even if only one spouse is on title, property is presumed community unless proven otherwise. This can affect your primary home or investment property.You may need to carefully track any separate funds you use for a down payment because tracing disputes can arise without planning. A prenup can clearly outline ownership percentages or reimbursement rights in advance.
Clarity now prevents conflict later
Texas law provides default rules. You can change many of those rules by agreement if you act voluntarily and provide full disclosure. Addressing business income, executive pay and real estate early reduces uncertainty. Thoughtful guidance can help protect what you built as you move forward together.]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[What if my child refuses to stay with the parent who has custody?]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566392026-02-13T16:23:49Z2026-02-20T06:00:36ZHow age affects a child's voice in court
Texas law recognizes that children develop their own perspectives as they mature. However, this does not mean that the court will hand over decision-making power to minors.
Under state law, a child who is 12 or older has the right to speak with a judge in chambers about their custody preferences. In a non-jury trial, the court must conduct this interview if a party requests it.
Note that judges may also interview children under 12 at their discretion. This process gives minors a formal way to share their perspective without the need to testify in open courtroom proceedings.
When a child's preference can be decisive
Judges evaluate a child's maturity level and the reasoning behind their preference, especially if those reasons involve safety, well‑being or stability. A teenager who says they feel safer and more supported with one parent may influence the court more than a child who simply wants fewer rules or more screen time.
The court also looks for signs that a parent coached or unduly influenced a child. If evidence suggests manipulation, the judge may discount the child's stated wishes entirely and might view the coaching parent unfavorably.
What you can do when your child refuses
While a child's refusal does not change your legal obligations, consider having an open conversation with your child to understand their concerns. This can help your child feel that you are listening to their concerns and set expectations at the same time.
Should this fail, you can also explore family counseling or consult a family law attorney about to determine whether a modification may be appropriate.]]>On Behalf of Warmbrodt & Associates, PLLC<![CDATA[2 child support questions gig workers and contractors often ask]]>https://www.wrattorney.net/?p=566422026-02-18T06:02:22Z2026-02-18T06:02:22ZHow does Texas calculate child support when income changes every month?
Texas child support often focuses on “net resources,” which may include earnings from contract work, commissions or other self-employment income. If your income fluctuates, courts may review patterns across a longer period rather than rely on a single high or low month.
Judges often consider earning history, available records and overall income trends when evaluating support. This approach aims for consistency, but fluctuating earnings can still create uncertainty. Looking at longer-term averages and financial history can give a clearer context than focusing only on short-term income changes.
What proof of income does a gig worker need for child support?
Without traditional pay stubs, you may use other records to show income activity. Common examples may include:
Bank statements with deposit history
Payment platform summaries or invoices
Tax returns with reported earnings
Business records showing income and expenses
These materials may help show a clearer picture of earnings, especially when income shifts from month to month.
Key considerations after reviewing gig income and child support
If you earn income through gig or contract work, you may benefit from reviewing your records and understanding the role of fluctuating earnings in Texas child support cases. Courts may examine both income patterns and available documentation, so preparation and awareness may help you evaluate your situation and consider next steps.]]>