The conversation covers critical ground for attorneys navigating high-conflict divorce and custody cases. Denise explains the distinction between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic traits, clarifies what narcissistic abuse and coercive control actually look like in practice, and unpacks the DARVO pattern — Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender — that abusers routinely deploy in courtrooms, mediation, and legal filings. She addresses why survivors of long-term abuse often appear dysregulated, scattered, or non-credible in legal settings, and why their failure to call police or press charges is rarely evidence that abuse did not occur.

Denise also offers practical guidance for attorneys: how to recognize litigation abuse as a form of ongoing coercive control, why faster resolution generally better serves the survivor, what to look for when clients report stalking or monitoring, and how to help traumatized clients prepare for court appearances. This episode is an essential listen for any family law attorney whose clients may be navigating the aftermath of emotional, psychological, or coercive abuse.

In this episode you will discover:

•       The difference between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic traits

•       What coercive control really is and how it works 

•       How the DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender) pattern works

•       Why survivors of narcissistic abuse appear dysregulated or non-credible in legal settings

•       What attorneys and judges should understand about the neuroscience of these kinds of relational traumas

•       Why stalking and digital monitoring within relationships is the number one predictor of escalation to physical violence

•       Actionable advice for attorneys working with abuse survivors

Connect with Denise Capurso

Website: dccounseling.org

Instagram: @Denise_supportcoach  |  @CharminglyToxic

Podcast: Charmingly Toxic

Location: Frisco, Texas (serves clients statewide; offers attorney consultations)

Guest: Rachael Kelly, Founder of Hive Enterprises

In this episode, host Holly Draper sits down with Rachael Kelly to explore the intersection of mental health, trauma, and family law. Rachael shares her journey from corporate executive to founding Hive Enterprises, a platform that supports individuals and organizations through high-stakes life transitions. The conversation focuses on how family lawyers can better serve clients who have experienced trauma and domestic violence by adopting a trauma-informed approach.

Clients who have experienced, or are experiencing trauma, in their relationships may or may not be aware of the psychological damage that has been done, and as an attorney, you can better serve your clients by helping them connect with the appropriate kind of support they need to be able to begin their recovery, enabling you to focus on getting them a desirable legal outcome.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Red flag behaviors that might indicate trauma
• The "oxygen mask" rule for attorneys
• Why clients in survival mode might struggle to support their own litigation efforts 
• Techniques for client co-regulation
• The need for scaffolded support for your clients who have experienced trauma
  
  

Bryann explains how divorce coaching bridges the gap between legal strategy and emotional readiness—helping clients clarify their goals, regulate reactions, and make decisions aligned with the life they want after the case is over. For family lawyers, that can translate into more focused clients, more productive conversations, and better litigation outcomes.

If you’ve ever had a client who couldn’t articulate their goals, struggled to manage the emotional toll of divorce, or needed support beyond legal advice, this conversation explores how divorce coaching can complement the work family lawyers already do.

In this episode, you'll discover:

●      What divorce coaching actually is

●      How emotionally overwhelmed clients can unintentionally derail litigation strategy

●      How family lawyers and divorce coaches can work together effectively 

●      Ways divorce coaching can reduce conflict and improve outcomes

●      Key considerations around confidentiality and privilege 

Drawing on years of reviewing trial transcripts in family law appeals—including cases that reached the Texas Supreme Court—Holly highlights the procedural mistakes trial lawyers frequently make that can completely eliminate appellate arguments. From objections to offers of proof to evidentiary gaps, this episode provides a clear roadmap for protecting the appellate record while still effectively advocating in the courtroom.

For family lawyers who rarely handle appeals but want to protect their clients—and themselves—this episode offers essential, courtroom-ready guidance on how to make sure critical issues remain reviewable if a case goes up on appeal.

In this episode, you'll discover:

●      Why failing to properly preserve the record can completely eliminate appellate options

●      How and when to make objections during trial”

●      The importance of obtaining explicit rulings on objections

●      How offers of proof protect excluded evidence for appeal

●      Why many attorneys lose appellate issues by failing to present evidence supporting their claims

In this episode, you'll discover:
● How divorce real estate transactions differ from typical home sales

● Common mistakes lawyers make in decrees and mediated settlement agreements

● Why listing deadlines and pricing provisions in decrees can create unintended problems.

● Key logistical challenges in divorce home sales

● How collaboration between family lawyers and divorce-focused real estate professionals can streamline negotiations, protect clients’ interests, and prevent post-divorce disputes

In this episode you will discover:

• The difference between Cooperative and Parallel Co-Parenting
• The importance of avoiding and/or addressing Conflicted Co-Parenting
• The characteristics of High Conflict relationships in terms of parenting
• The benefit of involving  a parenting facilitator
• Resources available to you and your clients to help with the co-parenting process
• The financial benefit to your clients for investing in healthy co-parenting practices

In this episode you will discover:
-The advantages and challenges that operating a virtual firm presents
-How to maintain office culture when there is no office
-The necessity of process development and training to ensure efficient and effective representation.
-Practical advice for starting and growing your practice

In this episode you’ll discover:

• The basics of Special Education law and the differences between IDEA and Section 504 
• The necessity of assigning educational rights to one parent and the potential pitfalls when they are not 
• How to advocate properly with the judge when there are special education issues at hand 
• Who should and should not be making Special Education-related decisions 

Divorces can be complicated enough, but what happens when there is a child with special needs involved?  This episode will help you identify issues that you might never have encountered before and give you practical solutions for approaching these in your negotiations and at trial.

In this episode, Monica Peters, partner at Neal Peters Law, shares insights from her years of experience dealing with these difficult issues both professionally as a family lawyer and personally as the parent of a child with special needs.

You’ll discover…

• How every situation is unique and why they need to be approached without a one-size fits all mentality
• Things that you will need to consider which will help you identify the specific needs of the child or children involved.
• How the special needs may necessitate creative solutions and impact the final orders
• How to admit pertinent expert input and testimony, even when there are strict time limits in the court
• Important financial considerations for care beyond childhood that must be taken into consideration

But what does that mean for solos, small firms, and the future of legal practice? If you’re a family lawyer (or any lawyer who wants to thrive in the age of AI), this episode will surprise you with practical, actionable insights.

In this episode, Carolyn Elefant, founder of the Law Offices of Carolyn Elefant and myshingle.com, reveals how solo and small firm lawyers can harness AI to transform their law practices, streamline operations, and stay competitive—without needing to code or become a tech guru.

You’ll discover…

• The single mindset shift that makes AI adoption easy for even the most tech-averse attorneys
• A clever method to “train” AI so it actually understands your firm’s language and processes
• Why AI might help you escape the billable hour grind—and what that means for your revenue model
• The #1 mistake lawyers make with AI (and why it could land you in hot water)
• Simple automations you can set up to finally take control of email overload and daily busywork

In this episode, Amy Rod, Board Certified Family Law Attorney at Paul Webb, PC, unpacks the surprising rise of self-represented parties and reveals battle-tested strategies for navigating the ethical and practical challenges these cases bring.

You’ll discover…

• Why up to 85% of divorces in some Texas courts now feature at least one unrepresented party
• The rule all attorneys must know before talking to a pro se litigant—and the most common mistake lawyers make
• Which resources you can share without crossing ethical lines, and where most lawyers slip up
• Communication tips that will safeguard you (and your client) against future headaches
• How empathy and professionalism can actually speed up settlements—even when the process gets frustrating

Missing a single post-judgment deadline could cost your client everything—and it’s more common than you think.

In this episode, Holly Draper takes you behind the scenes on the nitty-gritty of findings of fact and conclusions of law in Texas family law—revealing the overlooked rules that can make or break your case (and your reputation).

You’ll discover…

• Why filing proposed findings before trial won’t shield you from critical post-judgment deadlines.
• The little-known mistakes that sabotage even seasoned trial lawyers on appeal.
• What happens behind the bench when judges delegate drafting findings—and how it could impact your client.
• The counterintuitive strategy for drafting findings when you’re on the losing side of the case.
• How missing a single day can doom your appeal—no matter how strong your arguments are.

In this episode, Holly Draper and Emily Doron from The Draper Law Firm unveil the real-world intricacies of evidentiary exclusion under Rule 193.6 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, revealing common traps, key exceptions, and judgment calls that could change the outcome of your case.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising ways evidence can be excluded—even if you think you’re playing by the rules
• The overlooked “exceptions” that judges scrutinize before letting excluded evidence back in
• How minor mistakes in deadlines or disclosures can snowball into appellate nightmares
• The practical tactics attorneys use to protect their record—and their clients—when things go sideways
• Why relying on the statute alone can land you in trouble, and what seasoned trial lawyers do differently

Ever wonder why some family law mediations go smoothly while others spiral into chaos and confusion?

In this episode, Holly Draper and Carrie Tapia, Board Certified Family Lawyers and Partners at the Draper Law Firm, pull back the curtain on the art of mediation prep for family law cases—and reveal why thoughtful groundwork (not luck) is the real secret to successful settlements.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising (and expensive) mistake lawyers make that can derail a mediation before it begins
• Why timing your mediation could make or break your client’s outcome—and what factors you should really consider
• How to use inventories, spreadsheets, and checklists for maximum negotiation power
• Which simple mindset shift can help set client expectations (and protect morale) before mediation day
• The behind-the-scenes strategies top attorneys use to ensure mediators arrive fully briefed and ready for action

Uncover the unique challenges, complexities, and cultural dynamics at play when South Asian families navigate divorce in Texas.

In this episode, Yasmin Kutty, Founding Partner of Kutty Guajardo Khoury Family Law, PLLC, and Shailey Gupta-Brietzke, Principal Owner of Shailey Gupta-Brietzke PLLC, sit down with host Holly Draper to explore high-stakes separation, legal nuances, and family involvement in South Asian divorces in Texas.

You’ll discover…

• How family dynamics and extended relatives play a pivotal (and sometimes disruptive) role in divorce decisions
• The property puzzle of gold jewelry, heirlooms, and real estate that spans continents
• What to do when cultural or religious holidays collide with standard possession schedules
• Why Islamic marriage contracts rarely hold up in Texas courts—and what clients need to know
• Eye-opening challenges around domestic violence and financial transparency when cultural expectations are at odds with legal rights

In this episode, Christina Hollwarth, founding attorney at Hollwarth Law Firm, dives deep into the realities of handling high-conflict personalities in family law—from red flags at intake to courtroom communication tactics and everything in between.

You’ll discover…

• The “red flag” behaviors you should never ignore during the very first client call.
• Why some people derail their own family law cases—and how lawyers can respond.
• The communication techniques proven to work with high-conflict clients, co-parents, and even other attorneys.
• How not to become your client’s unpaid therapist—while still giving them the support they need.
• The ethical landmines and boundaries every family lawyer needs to navigate to safeguard their sanity and their practice.

In this episode, Holly Draper, CEO and Managing Partner of The Draper Law Firm, unpacks sweeping legislative updates and landmark standards that are turning parent vs. non-parent custody litigation on its head in Texas.

You’ll discover…

• The subtle statutory word change that could bar non-parents from ever filing suit.
• Why affidavits will make or break non-parent custody cases—and what must be in them.
• How the new “clear and convincing evidence” requirement raises the bar for non-parents seeking access.
• What the fit parent presumption really means after this legislative session.
• The strategy risks—and new hope—for parents and non-parents when agreeing to custody orders.

In this episode, Judge Roy Ferguson, retired Texas District Judge and current private judge and arbitrator, sits down with attorney Holly Draper to unravel the world of private judging and arbitration in family law—shedding light on the little-known legal mechanisms that could change how complex cases are handled in Texas.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising legal history behind “special judging” and why it’s far from a new trend
• How high-profile (and everyday) clients are using private judges to keep sensitive disputes out of the spotlight
• Why private judging might save clients money, even with added costs
• The critical differences between arbitration and private judging—especially when it comes to appeals
• Essential advice for young family lawyers to thrive without burning out

What does it mean for parental rights and protective orders when the Texas Supreme Court steps in?

In this episode, Holly Draper dives deep into Stary v. Ethridge—her recent Texas Supreme Court case that shakes up the standards for long-term protective orders and constitutional parental rights.

You’ll discover…

• Why “care, custody, and control” are three words every family lawyer—and parent—should know.
• How fast-tracked protective order hearings can short-circuit due process, and why that matters.
• The surprising burden of proof shift that changes the game for protective orders lasting over two years.
• Masterful behind-the-scenes strategy and suspenseful moments from the Supreme Court oral argument.
• Practical steps lawyers (and parents) must take now if they’re impacted by this bombshell ruling.

In this episode, Rebecca Perra, Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator and Judicial and Legal Education Coordinator for OurFamilyWizard, delves into the ways this innovative tool can transform co-parenting for separated families.

You’ll discover:

• How an integrated co-parenting app can centralize communication and reduce court appearances.
• The role of AI in improving family communication and reducing negativity.
• How to ensure expense tracking and reimbursement are seamless and conflict-free.
• Why OurFamilyWizard’s calendar feature stands out over free alternatives.
• Tips on doing away with "he said, she said" in custody exchanges with GPS verified check-ins.

In this episode, Spenser Housewright, a family law attorney at the Shapiro Law Firm, delves into the critical topic of evidence—how to get it in, how to keep it out, and its importance in winning a case.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising importance of knowing your judge's tendencies to sway your case's outcome.
• A sneak peek into personal business records and their underutilized power in family law.
• Why attorneys shouldn't overuse objections, and when exactly to make them count.
• The crucial role of business records affidavits and how to secure them.
• A proven strategy to not let non-responsive testimony derail your case.

But how can lawyers harness artificial intelligence to elevate their practice without succumbing to overwhelm or ethical pitfalls?

In this episode, Alex Shahrestani, managing partner of Promise Legal PLLC, delves deep into the integration of AI and law, offering innovative insights into navigating this technological terrain effectively.

You’ll discover:

• What AI really is and how it can transform legal practices.
• The importance of learning to draft effective prompts in AI chatbots.
• How attorneys can train AI to tailor solutions for their unique needs.
• The ethical concerns and privacy issues lawyers should be mindful of when using AI.
• Why big law firms might face challenges, and small firms rise, in the age of AI.

In this episode, Guy Rodgers, the owner of Guy Rodgers Private Wealth Strategies, unravels his unique journey from being a family lawyer to becoming a seasoned financial advisor. Tune in to learn how he helps individuals and legal professionals navigate complex financial landscapes.

You’ll discover…

• What prompted Guy to transition from family law to financial advisor.
• How involving a financial advisor in divorce property discussions can significantly benefit your client.
• The significance of setting a revenue target and knowing your numbers as a law firm owner.
• Why creating an emergency fund is crucial for personal and business financial stability.
• Key travel hacks that can save you thousands on luxury trips.

In this episode, Greg Beane, a board-certified family law attorney at Webb Family Law, unveils the secrets to prepare for direct and cross-examination of expert witnesses in family law cases. This conversation promises to offer strategic insights and practical advice that every family attorney should know.

You’ll discover...

• The nuanced methods to challenge and win against negative child custody evaluations.
• The importance of choosing the right financial experts for your case.
• How to effectively handle cross-examinations to undermine the opposing expert's testimony.
• Key strategies for preparing your expert witnesses for direct examination in court.

In this episode, Emily Doron, a seasoned attorney at The Draper Law Firm, unveils the secrets behind success in the courtroom, drawing on her rich experience in the DA's office.

You’ll discover…

• The three critical points Emily focuses on to win her cases.
• How to strategically prepare clients for the emotional rollercoaster of cross-examination.
• The art of handling exhibit selection for maximum courtroom impact.
• Why understanding judge preferences can change your courtroom strategy.
• The surprising differences between criminal and family law courtrooms that can sway a case.

In this episode, Gianni Avalos, owner of Avalos Family Trial Attorneys, shares her innovative strategies in social media marketing, virtual business structuring, and niche marketing that revolutionized her practice.

You’ll discover:

• The surprising impact of removing text overlays from your videos.
• Why spontaneous content creation could be the game-changer you need.
• The magic behind TikTok’s new watermark-free video feature.
• How niche marketing can elevate your business to new heights.
• The secret payment structures that offer flexibility to clients and stability to the firm.

How can parents and legal professionals navigate the complexities with authenticity and support?

In this episode, Kelly Fritsch, an experienced family law attorney and owner of a family law practice in Houston, Texas, shares her invaluable insights on effectively handling cases involving polarized parenting scenarios.

In this episode, you’ll discover…

• Strategies for handling cases involving transgender children or parents
• The importance of mental health support for both transitioning children and their parents.
• Strategies for representing parents on either side of polarizing issues.
• Legal considerations around vaccinations and their classification as invasive procedures in custody cases.
• The rising legal challenges in cases with polarized parenting and how to navigate them.
• Approaches for estimating and managing financial disputes over children's extracurricular activities post-divorce.

In this episode, Holly Draper unpacks the complexities and strategies involved in her recent oral argument in the Texas Supreme Court case, Stary v. Ethridge.

You’ll discover…

• The meticulous preparation and strategies needed for a successful oral argument.
• The significance of having amici curiae in court cases and how they can influence outcomes.
• Insights into the intricate process of dealing with a non-responsive party in appellate proceedings.
• The importance of moot courts.
• A de-brief of the oral argument in Stary v. Ethridge.

In this episode, Christy Bradshaw Schmidt, a licensed professional counselor and family law expert, reveals innovative strategies and insights to simplify and improve the child custody evaluation process, with an emphasis on Brief Focused Assessments (BFA).

You’ll discover:

• How BFAs can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional custody evaluations.
• Key considerations for attorneys when working with mental health professionals.
• Why maintaining professional boundaries and relationships is crucial in family law cases.
• Christy’s top resources for family law attorneys to improve their practice.
• The latest legislative changes impacting custody evaluations.

In this episode, Holly Draper and Carrie Tapia, partners at The Draper Law Firm, delve into the intricacies of effectively managing financial documents for mediation and court. They explore common pitfalls and offer practical strategies for attorneys and clients alike, all while uncovering the nuances of financial preparation in family law cases.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to identify and manage sudden separate property claims made during mediation.
• The crucial role of accurate document labeling and proper format submission.
• Why valuing non-statement assets like houses and cars requires a cautious approach.
• The complexities of business valuations and when to seek expert opinions.
• Proven strategies to keep financial inventories up-to-date and reliable.

In this episode, Rob McAngus, Partner at Verner Brumley Mueller Parker, P.C. and board-certified in family law, reveals the nuanced world of spousal maintenance in Texas and offers invaluable wisdom for family law attorneys.

You’ll discover…

• The difference between spousal maintenance and alimony, and why Texas has unique rules.
• Key factors courts consider when determining the minimum reasonable needs test.
• Real-life examples of disability cases and their implications on spousal maintenance rulings.
• How family violence convictions impact spousal maintenance eligibility.
• Essential advice from Rob McAngus on building a legal document repository.

But today’s guest, Nikita Lamar, has made it her reality. 

Nikita, founder of Lamar Legal Group, PLLC, will share her unique journey from starting her legal career in Texas to maintaining her successful practice remotely from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. 

She’ll cover:

• The mental and spiritual shift that inspired her to practice law abroad
• Overcoming the challenges of a remote law practice
• Key technologies and strategies for managing a law firm remotely
• The impact of living abroad on personal growth and legal practice
• Advice for young lawyers and thoughts on non-traditional law practice paths
• And more

Today's episode features Cynthia Rendon, owner of Rendon Law Firm, PLLC, and author of “Judge Me Not: An Attorney’s Journey of Healing from Burnout.” Cynthia shares how she transformed her practice as a lawyer to overcome burnout–and how other lawyers can do the same.

She’ll cover:

• The pivotal moment that propelled her to confront burnout head-on and seek a healthier, more balanced approach to her career and life.
• Practical and effective strategies that can help any attorney avoid the brink of burnout and thrive both professionally and personally.
• The importance of setting firm boundaries and the revolutionary impact of time-blocking on productivity and mental health.
• And more.

We’ll cover:

• A comprehensive overview of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Enforcement Act and its critical role in ensuring fair and efficient custody proceedings across state lines
• The challenges and solutions for handling custody cases that span different states
• Insights into how temporary emergency jurisdiction can protect children in immediate danger and the legal framework surrounding it
• Common mistakes attorneys make regarding the UCCJEA and advice on how to avoid them
• And more

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Amy back to the Texas Family Law Insiders podcast. Since we last spoke, Amy has continued to evolve her mission to support divorcing families, now stepping into a new role as a certified divorce coach. With a background marked by personal experience and a deep passion for helping others, Amy has developed invaluable resources, including her book, One Princess, Two Castles, and her latest venture, a journal for children and teenagers to express their feelings during this challenging time.

• Discover Amy's journey from experiencing divorce firsthand to becoming a beacon of support for others.
• Explore Little Hearts, Big Feelings, Amy's new journal designed to help children and teenagers navigate their emotions through divorce.
• Learn about the unique role of a divorce coach and how Amy's services complement the work of family law attorneys, fostering a healthier transition for all involved.
• Uncover the distinct difference between divorce coaching and therapy, and how Amy's approach aims to guide individuals towards a brighter future post-divorce.

For more insights from Amy Tyson on turning hardship into hope and to discover how her coaching services can benefit you or someone you know going through a divorce, visit happinessintheheartache.com. Tune into this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or right here to embrace the journey towards healing and empowerment.

My guest is Christine Andresen, founder of CHA Law in Austin, Texas, a firm that specializes in serving LGBTQ+ family law clients. 

Christine will share what family lawyers need to know about LGBTQ+ issues in family law, drawing from her extensive experiences representing cases in this niche. 

She’ll share key information about:

• Navigating the political climate in Texas
• Cases involving reproductive and adoption issues
• The potential legal challenges of same-sex divorce cases in Texas
• Best practices for representing transgender clients
• And more

Discover the nuances of Texas’ protective order statutes and the constitutional debate it ignites. 

• Uncover the challenges and implications of the Stary v. Ethridge case as it ascends to the Texas Supreme Court.
• Examine the Texas protective order statute and its potential impact on parental rights.
• Learn about the constitutional debates surrounding the balance between victim protection and parental rights.
• Understand the potential precedents this case could set for future legal proceedings.

For a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications of protective orders on parental rights, tune into this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or hit play above.

• Unpack the critical elements of enforcing possession and access in family law cases.
• Learn the importance of specific and enforceable orders in successful contempt proceedings.
• Gain insights into defending against enforcement actions.
• Understand the procedural nuances from filing motions to handling court proceedings in enforcement cases.

For an in-depth understanding of the enforcement of possession and access in family law, and to benefit from Holly and Carrie’s expert guidance, listen to this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or simply hit play above.

In this episode, author and psychologist Susan Fletcher shares her expertise on intensive reunification therapy, a subject of growing concern nationwide.

Susan will provide a detailed background of the therapy, its implications and ethical considerations, and the controversies surrounding it–and cover the often adverse psychological effects these programs have on children and parents.

Susan’s insights are an excellent resource for attorneys wondering how to approach family law cases involving intensive reunification therapy.

In this episode, Jim Mueller, owner and managing partner at Verner Brumley Mueller Parker, PC, sheds light on the often-complex topic of attorneys' fees in family law cases and shares practical advice for family lawyers.

• Uncover the critical steps for securing attorneys' fees in family law.
• Explore the nuances of interim fees and their impact on divorce proceedings.
• Demystify the process of defending against a request for attorneys' fees.
• Discover key strategies for effectively proving up attorneys' fees in court.
• Gain insights into contractual attorney's fees and how to navigate them.

To hear the full episode with Jim Mueller and get valuable insights on attorneys' fees in family law, subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or click play on the player above.

My guest in this episode is Mike Fonseca, a national sales manager for Soberlink. He’s here to share his expertise on Soberlink and break down how this technology plays a role in family law.

He’ll cover:

• Comparing alcohol monitoring technology’s effectiveness
• How Soberlink helps clients with accountability
• What attorneys need to know about Soberlink
• Common questions about alcohol monitoring in family law
• And more

In this episode, I give an update on post-C.J.C cases since my last episode on this topic. 

Join me for an overview of each case and an analysis of how they could impact future parent vs. non-parent child custody cases. 

I’ll also cover the fit parent presumption and where the Texas Supreme Court stands on C.J.C at the end of this year.

Often, I see attorneys drafting substantive motions poorly, which sometimes costs them wins for clients.

In this episode, I share my top strategies for drafting substantive motions.

I’ll cover:

• What is a substantive motion and how does it compare to a standard pleading?
• Pleas to the jurisdiction
• Motions to reconsider
• Responding to a substantive motion
• And more

Day after day, attorneys are called on to make hundreds of decisions… Without the proper rest and recovery, your brain can become overwhelmed.

In this episode, Susan Myres unpacks what decision fatigue is and shares how attorneys can manage and overcome decision fatigue so we can show up as our best selves.

Susan is the managing partner of Myres & Associates PLLC and has been litigating for over forty years.

She’ll cover:

• Signs of decision fatigue
• How decision fatigue can lead to malpractice
• Strategies for managing decisions
• Giving your brain a break
• And more

In this episode, I’m joined by Draper Law Firm associate attorney Desiree Hemphill to discuss possession schedules and how family lawyers can handle them.

We’ll cover:

• What is the standard possession order?
• How to handle holidays
• 50/50 schedules
• Considerations for children under 3
• Why nesting is usually a bad idea
• Navigating unique job schedules
• And more

What are the best practices when preparing for a hearing?

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a new attorney, it’s always a good idea to review the fundamentals, so Holly Draper and Senior Attorney Carrie Tapia are here to share their favorite tips on preparing for hearings, including:

• Preparing a summary of relief requested
• Opening statements
• Cross examination
• Leading Questions
• Exhibits 
• And more

In this solo episode, I delve into the topic of grandparent access cases.

These cases deal with some of the same constitutional implications as CJC but have their own distinct statutes.

I’ll cover:

• Why most grandparents do not have standing to file for grandparent access
• Relevant Texas Family Law Code Provisions
• The meaning of significant impairment
• Implications of seeking access vs seeking conservatorship
• A red flag that you’ll be able to get a case dismissed
• And more

How can family lawyers handle the overlap between these two areas?

In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Fox, who practices both family and criminal law and owns The Fox Firm, PLLC.

She’ll answer common questions about two major criminal law topics that can affect family law cases: drug issues and recording the other side.

Our conversation will cover:

• What to do if a family law client is accused of using drugs
• Drug issues with teenagers in a family law case
• The criminal risks of using recorded evidence in family law
• How to approach a family law case when a client has criminal charges
• And more

In this episode, I’m joined by Robert Greening, principal and founder at GreeningLaw, P.C. in Dallas, Texas.

Robert has spent the last 33 years of his life as a personal injury attorney, helping people receive justice and peace of mind.

He’s here to share the essentials about personal injury law for family lawyers, including:

• How personal injury claims affect divorce cases
• The types of damages in personal injury cases
• What to tell a client who has been wrongfully injured
• And more

What are the must-know facts that family lawyers should be aware of if this convention becomes relevant to a client?

In this episode, Natalie Webb of Webb Family Law will break down the Hague Convention and its impact on family law.

She’ll cover:

• When does the Hague Convention apply?
• Common misconceptions about the Convention
• Working with the state authority on a case
• Determining a child’s habitual residence
• Related criminal statutes
• And more

In many divorce cases, a client may bring up concepts like narcissism and emotional abuse…

In this episode, we’ll cover how attorneys can navigate these situations, especially in high conflict cases. 

My guest Christopher Meyer is a veteran and law firm owner whose practice focuses on high conflict divorce, child custody, and family violence cases.

He’ll share his insight on the psychology of divorce and how family lawyers can handle cases involving claims of narcissism and abuse.

In this episode, I’m joined by intellectual property attorney Wei Wei Jeang to cover this area that may be unfamiliar to family lawyers.

Effective August 1, 2023, Wei Wei Jeang is a founding partner of the new law firm Fulton Jeang PLLC, a Texas-based virtual business law firm. Fulton Jeang focuses on corporate, securities, intellectual property, technology, data privacy, employment and litigation.

Wei Wei assists her clients in obtaining patent and trademark protection and enforcing their IP rights. She sits down with us to discuss aspects of intellectual property that family lawyers need to know.

She’ll discuss:

• Patents, trademarks, and copyright
• How common law plays into IP cases
• Signs that your client could have an IP issue
• Valuing intellectual property
• Division of intellectual property
• And more

In this episode, I’ll cover what family lawyers need to know about the process of preparing a case for appeal or a mandamus.

I’ll answer common questions such as:

• The difference between an appeal and a mandamus
• How to create a record
• The process of redacting
• Objecting and preserving the record when judges are difficult
• Appellate deadlines
• And more

Lindsey Obenhaus, a partner at Goranson Bain Ausley, regularly helps women in this situation.

In this episode, she’ll cover the major considerations for these clients, including:

• The history of alimony in Texas
• Dealing with possession schedules as a working mother
• Creative solutions to deviate from the standard possession schedule
• Property division
• How divorced parents can best handle unexpected schedule changes
• And more

They believe it’s a standing case—but it’s not.

In this episode, we’ll cover why attorneys have that misconception and explore the ins and outs of standing in family law cases.

Here to join me is Jimmy Evans of Evans Family Law Group. Jimmy has been practicing law in Texas since 1995, has been board certified in family law since 2010, and has handled 14 jury trials in family law.

Jimmy and I will share our knowledge on this subject and help attorneys gain clarity on how standing applies in family law cases.

My guest Davina Frederick is the founder and CEO of Wealthy Woman Lawyer, a company that helps women law firm owners scale their law firm businesses to and through 1 million dollars in gross annual revenue without burning themselves out in the process.

In this episode, she’ll share the internal and external systems that can help you grow your law firm and get more of your ideal clients.

Davina will also cover:

• The benefits of a coach
• How to leverage your resources
• A hiring system to attract ideal employees
• The KPIs firm owners should monitor
• And more

John Snell specializes in helping divorcing homeowners make better informed decisions regarding their property, mortgage, and home equity options.

In this episode, he’ll share the challenges and opportunities of helping divorcing parties and even stay-at-home parents navigate lending options.

John will cover:

• How child support affects loan eligibility
• What asset-based income can do for your clients
• Credit considerations for stay-at-home parents
• Out-of-the-box ideas for those who don’t qualify for a traditional loan
• And more

Regina Edwards, owner and managing attorney of Edwards Family Law in Gwinnett County, Georgia, created the Facebook group Lawyer on the Beach to help other attorneys do just that.

Now, she’s here to share her favorite tech tools and processes with you.

She’ll cover:

• Designing an intake process around your ideal client
• Running a firm remotely
• Why she uses flat fees
• Automating the process of declining clients
• Using tech for trial preparation
• And more

The PowerPoint and other documents referenced during this episode can all be found by joining the Lawyer on the Beach Facebook group and by accessing the link in the “About” section of the group.

My guest Travis Cross is the owner of the Lawyer’s Receivership Group, a receivership company based out of North Texas.

In this episode, he’ll answer common questions such as:

• What is receivership?
• What are the 5 qualifications to be a receiver?
• Why should a receiver be both an attorney and a realtor?
• When should family lawyers get a receiver involved in their case?
• How does a receiver determine fair market value?
• And more

It can be a crucial component to divorce cases, but many family lawyers lack experience in this area.

James Victor Esh is here to fix that. As a former title lawyer and practicing family lawyer, he understands how the nuances of real estate impact family law.

In this episode, he’ll share the most important facts family lawyers need to know about real estate, including:

• How to write legal descriptions for properties
• The real meaning of pro forma
• Conveyance documents vs deeds of trust
• How to prove separate property real estate
• And more

Jonathan Fox spent years working in the Office of the Attorney General and was named 2016 Assistant Attorney General of the Year. He is here to share his expertise on issues related to the Office of the Attorney General.

He’ll break down common questions from family lawyers, including:

• What happens at the OAG when someone files a child support request?
• The difference between full service and registry only
• Time expectations for when the OAG will contact your client
• Modifications after a change in income
• Tips for a private attorney trying to navigate IV-D court
• And more

A competency issue can come into play in an enforcement proceeding—but understanding when and how to address it is critical.

In this episode, Judge Scott Becker joins me to share his expertise on competency.

He’ll cover:

• What qualifies as competent or incompetent
• When to use competency
• What to do when you have competency concerns about a client
• How to balance ethical concerns about competency
• How to contest a claim of incompetency
• And more

Carrie Tapia, a Senior Attorney with The Draper Law Firm, is a former CPS caseworker.

She uses that experience to guide family law clients as they navigate involvement with CPS and represents clients in appealing unfavorable CPS outcomes.

In this episode, Carrie shares her expertise on navigating CPS issues in family law cases.

She’ll cover:

• What happens when someone makes an allegation to CPS?
• Advice for clients when CPS wants to interview them
• What rights do parents have regarding CPS interviewing children?
• How should attorneys communicate with CPS during litigation?
• What can clients do to lower the risk of CPS involvement?
• Best practices for a CPS hearing
• And more

But many don’t know the latest available tools to make their lives easier…

In this episode, Christene “Chris” Krupa Downs covers what lawyers need to know about technology, including the must-know apps and how to utilize them.

She’ll cover:

• Tips for scanning documents
• Internet security issues
• Password protection
• Translation software
• VPN
• Online notary services
• And more

As I launch my new book on this subject, I give you some tips and tricks for handling your next parent vs non-parent child custody case.

In this episode, I’ll cover:

• Why you should always ask for a ruling on standing (and what to do if the court denies it)
• The two prongs of the fit parent presumption
• When to decline representation to a non-parent
• The ins and outs of the mandamus process
• Discovery, summary judgment, and trial
• And more

My book, Insider Secrets for Winning Non-Parent Custody Cases in Texas, is now available for free at draperfirm.com.

But when we do experience family law firsthand, it gives us incredible perspective on how to best serve our clients…

Hannah Hembree Bell is here to share how her own divorce shaped her journey as a family law attorney—and what you can learn from someone who has been in your client’s shoes.

Hannah also discusses her take on work-life balance as a mom/lawyer, the process of starting her law firm, and more.

When divorced or separated parents disagree, it can be hard to determine who gets to make a decision about their child.
Adam Dietrich is here to break down how family lawyers can navigate these complicated scenarios and how we can change how we draft orders to make rights and duties more enforceable. 

We’ll cover:

• What rights & duties do both parents have at all times?
• How does conservatorship affect rights & duties?
• Making medical and educational decisions
• Is tiebreaker language a good solution?
• The enforceability of rights & duties
• And more

But many lawyers lack an understanding of cryptocurrency and how it can affect division of property in divorce cases. 

Baylor University Law Professor Stephanie Tang is here to break down the basics of cryptocurrency and discuss how the world of family law has adapted to the growth of digital currency.

We’ll cover:

• What is the blockchain?
• How does mining work?
• What are NFTs—and how are they valued?
• Best practices for cryptocurrency & division of property
• And more

Suddenly, you have to navigate complex policies that you’re unfamiliar with…

And face unique family circumstances such as deployment & childcare…

In this episode, Thomas Just shares his expertise on military family law and breaks down some of the essential facts attorneys need to consider when working on these cases.

We’ll cover:

• Why adultery claims work differently for military cases
• What happens if your client gets deployed during the case
• Handling possession schedules in case of deployment
• Child support & the military
• How divorce affects military pensions & benefits
• And more

A litigation strategist can be an invaluable tool for an attorney…

They can keep you organized, help you select the best clients, and save your clients money…

Jerome Stein is here to give you an inside look at his role as a litigation strategist and break down why attorneys can benefit from one.

How can you ensure your order meets your client’s needs?

Nicole Voyles is here to discuss the ins and outs of drafting orders with an eye for enforcement. 

Nicole covers the most common areas where family lawyers need to consider enforcement, including:

• Possession and access schedules
• Unreimbursed medical expenses
• Right of first refusal
• Child support
• The morality clause
• And more

When family law and criminal law cases overlap, you need the knowledge to navigate them…

And you can use the information-gathering techniques of prosecutors for your family law case…

Emily Doron of The Draper Law Firm is here to discuss her background as an Assistant District Attorney and how that has helped her as a family law attorney.

Listen to learn:

• The importance of understanding overlapping areas of criminal and family law
• Techniques for finding criminal history and other criminal-related evidence
• How to navigate CPS involvement in family law cases
• What to do if your family law client gets arrested
• And more

If your case involves tracing separate property, proving hidden assets, or business valuation, you may need to bring in a forensic accountant…

Amber Alwais is here to break down the role of a forensic accountant and answer common questions attorneys have about working with one.

Listen to learn:

• What types of cases benefit from a forensic accountant
• The threshold of net worth for using a forensic accountant
• How forensic accountants can find hidden assets
• What forensic accountants can do that attorneys can’t
• The red flags that signal a need for a forensic accountant
• How to hire a trustworthy forensic accountant
• And more

But what is the role of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and how are these practitioners involved in family law?

In this episode, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Samantha Greene answers these questions and discusses how you can help clients dealing with trauma.

Listen to learn:

• How a clinical therapist differs from a forensic therapist
• When clinical therapists can be involved in family law cases
• The science behind trauma & the brain
• Best practices for talking to clients undergoing trauma
• Why anger management isn’t always the right tool
• And more

As you may know, I represented the father in the C.J.C. case from the trial court to the Texas Supreme Court…

I already discussed the background and opinions from C.J.C. in Episode 19, but today we will dive deeper into the takeaways from C.J.C. and what has happened in family law since that time. I will discuss cases that have substantively addressed the fit parent presumption since C.J.C. and where the law stands in setting forth the standard to overcome that presumption.

And I’m going to give you an inside look at how this case affects family law.

Listen to learn:

• Distinguishing standing from the right to relief
• The difference between the Constitutional Fit Parent Presumption and the Statutory Parental Presumption
• When the Fit Parent Presumption applies
• Cases since C.J.C.
• Where we are in establishing a standard for overcoming the fit parent presumption
• And more

And any reputable family lawyer should understand this process.

If your client can’t afford to hire a tracing expert, you may be the one responsible for tracing—so you need to know the ins and outs.

In this episode, Chad Petross breaks down tracing for family lawyers and shows you how these techniques can help your client get the best possible result.

Listen to learn:

• Tracing techniques for bank accounts and investment accounts
• How to present tracing information in court
• Tips for preparing for mediation
• And more

As a single mother and teacher, my guest on this episode knows this firsthand.

Amy Tyson wrote a children’s book, One Princess, Two Castles, for her daughter, and she’s since shared the book with the world.

The book aims to bring hope, healing, and comfort to young children while reinforcing the idea that, “Things will be different, but things will be good!”

As a family lawyer, this book is a valuable resource to share with your clients who have children—demonstrating that you care for their emotional well-being, not just their legal concerns.

Listen to my conversation with Amy as we cover her book, parenting through divorce, and more. 

A life coach may be the answer.

But what is a life coach and how can you connect your struggling client to one?

Life coach Ashley Shihab helps people reconnect with themselves and move forward to a better future.

In this episode, she discusses the role of a life coach and how your clients can benefit from this resource.

Today on the podcast, Daphne Trombley walks you through the OAG and child support cases.

Daphne served a 7-year tenure as the Managing Assistant Attorney General for the Office of the Attorney General’s Child Support Division.

In this episode, she lends you her expertise so you can learn…

• How the OAG enforces child support
• Best practices for when your client has an open OAG case
• How to navigate an informal settlement process with the OAG
• Options for when the OAG doesn’t give your client the desired outcome
• And more

Today on the podcast, we discuss the intersection of family law and real estate.

My guest is Lance Taylor, a realtor with Keller Williams Realty in Plano, Texas. He teams up with attorneys to help divorcing clients navigate the real estate process.
 

Lance joins us to explore how attorneys and real estate agents can guide clients through this difficult life change, getting the best outcome for all parties.

Listen to learn:

•  How attorneys and real estate agents can join forces
•  How to settle disputes about the value of a house
•  What Lance calls “the easy button of real estate”
•  And more

Robert is extremely knowledgeable of nuances in Texas case law when it comes to the often-painstaking tasks of valuing businesses and tracing assets in family case proceedings. Our conversation details what a family law attorney needs to know about business valuations and tracing, including:

• What attorneys should look for when seeking a business valuation or tracing expert
• The basic elements of business valuations
• Why some assets cannot be traced
• How to attack a valuation or tracing determination you disagree with 
• And much more

Get all your business valuation and tracing questions answered today!

We’re sitting down with Elisa today to discuss how state courts across the country are redefining the laws pertaining to a psychological parent. Elisa says, “Hillary Clinton taught us from the old African Proverb that ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ and it does. Are there times that someone who is simply a psychological parent deserves to be recognized and deserves to have the status and court-ordered recognition when they step up and ask for it?” 

Today on the show, we discuss current and past psychological parent cases, including Middleton v. Johnson, 369 S.C. 585. More of these cases are being heard, so listen in to learn:

• The paramount concern for courts in determining the rights of a psychological parent
• Tests used throughout the country for determining if someone has acted as a psychological parent
• Is the consent of one parent enough to determine that there is a psychological parent relationship
• What about other parental figures such as nannies, foster parents, and grandparents
• Special considerations for psychological parent relationships in the LQBTQ community
• The status of the psychological parent in Texas
• And more

Dr. Sheff is a licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 40 years of clinical experience and an expertise in family issues. She holds a Graduate Certificate Degree in Dispute Resolution. 95% of her practice is family law related, where she serves in the roles of a neutral Mental Health Professional and Child Specialist, provides counseling services, and acts as a parenting coordinator. 
 
Dr. Sheff says, “Collaborative divorce is aimed at helping couples reach customized solutions to restructure their families as they move forward post-divorce.”

In this episode we are taking a deep dive into the mental health aspects of collaborative divorce, plus how family law attorneys can borrow the tools from collaborative divorce for traditional litigation to empower couples and help families move forward. 

Listen to learn:

• What a successful collaborative client looks like from a mental health professional’s perspective
• How a mental health professional can be an asset in any divorce
• The role of the child specialist in family law cases
• How to use the number one tool in collaborative divorce for better outcomes in all your cases
• And more

JoAl is a frequent speaker on the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) which specifies which court should decide a custody case. Today, JoAl walks us through:

• What is the difference between the UIFSA and the UCCJEA
• When does the UCCJEA encourage a state to decline jurisdiction 
• The 4 different scenarios in which a Texas court has jurisdiction and which is the most important
• What emergency jurisdiction looks like under the UCCJEA
• The 2 most common mistakes lawyers make with the UCCJEA
• And more

Ryan is Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Family Law, and serves as Chair of the Family Law Committee and Liaison to the Section of Family Law of the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, and was elected as Director of District 4 by the Texas Young Lawyers Association. He serves in multiple capacities for State and Local Bar Associations.

Ryan is sitting down with us today to walk us through everything we need to know about temporary restraining orders. Listen to learn:    

• What is the legal standard for obtaining a TRO and what criteria should you look for when making a decision to seek one
• What are the differences between a protection order and a TRO and what are the limits of a TRO
• Tips for preparing your client to testify, no matter which side of the TRO they are on
• 5 tools to present things effectively so that you can speed up your case
• And more 

Plus, Ryan’s best advice for attorneys, including great ideas for giving a hand up and a hand out to people making their way up.

Lindsay is sitting down with us today to offer some insight and options for helping our clients who are facing mortgage issues complicated by their divorce. Listen as she shares:

• The single biggest complicating factor in acquiring a mortgage after a divorce
• The truth behind credit repair—how long it takes and does it work
• Breakthrough solutions for the stay-at-home mom who wants to keep the house. Lindsay offers her #1 tip
• The demystifying truth about the buyout 
• The 3 most important things attorneys can do to help their clients with the refinance process
• And more

Today, 80% of Lauren’s practice involves Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cases. We invited her on the show to offer us an insider look at the different aspects involved in these types of cases.

Tune in to discover…

• Gestational Carrier vs. Traditional Surrogate: what's the difference? Lauren walks us through determining parental rights and the legal risk—plus which one is protected by Texas law
• What goes into a gestational surrogacy agreement, plus how the pandemic has changed the requirements
• The key elements of egg and sperm donations
• Embryos and family law divorce cases—what options are available and the role genetics play  
• And much more

Today, we’re sitting down with Jenny to delve deeper into the complex legal processes involved in adoption, surrogacy, and assisted reproduction, including:  

• The different paths to adoption—what each one offers, what to watch out for, how to help your clients remain within the law and avoid the scams, and special considerations for the LGBTQ+ community
• Gestational surrogacy vs. traditional surrogacy, plus what goes into gestational agreements and the requirements for validation
• Key strategies for walking your clients through assisted reproduction, including a look at embryo donation, egg donation, and sperm donation
• And much more

Rocky has been practicing law for over 18 years and owns Pilgrim Law Office, P.C., a family law firm with offices in Tomball and Richmond, Texas. With a focus on children, Rocky regularly serves as an amicus attorney in family law cases.

Rocky says that an amicus is most appropriate when you have a high conflict situation and the parents just cannot agree. One is saying black and the other is saying white, there are major communication issues, and the kids are stuck in the middle.

We’re sitting down with her today to discuss the role of an amicus attorney and when it’s appropriate to request one for your case, as well as:

• The key differences between an amicus and an ad litem
• The most important role of the amicus attorney
• Five things an amicus attorney must do, their primary goal, and how to avoid the “gotcha” at trial 
• And much more

One thing that can most negatively affect children’s development is high conflict between their parents. Robin joins us on the show today to discuss how forensic counseling can be useful in these types of divorce and custody cases. Listen as she walks us through:

• Family systems therapy and reunification therapy—what’s the difference, what’s the process, and when is it effective
• What are the essential differences between destructive and constructive conflict and how each can create change
• Parent coordinators and parent facilitators, what do they do, and what’s the difference between them
• What are some indicators that these services are needed, and when should they begin
• And much more

Rikky has been practicing law for 46 years because she loves her work. She is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law, Civil Appellate Law and Family Law, and is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates.  

An expert in family law jury trials, we invited her on the show today to share her knowledge and give us an in-depth look at everything you need to know to prepare yourself, your case, and your client for a jury.

Listen as she walks us through:

• A bench trial vs. a jury trial, and the 3 types of cases that are most ripe for a jury 
• What attorneys should bifurcate, what about overlap, and when to file a motion in limine
• The most important thing to discuss with your client about going in front of a jury and how to prepare your client to be the best witness for themselves in front of the 12 people in the room deciding their case
• The 3 step process for voir dire, the two sentence structure she swears by, and what causes her to strike a juror
• And much, much more—if you have a jury trial in your future, this is an episode not to be missed

Maisha says, “Oftentimes the client doesn’t necessarily identify themself as a victim of domestic violence, even if in fact they are.”

We’re sitting down with her today to learn about some signs, signals, and statistics of domestic violence. Listen as she walks us through:

• Key markers of domestic violence—the number one thing family law attorneys should look for—plus conversation starters to help you determine if your client is in danger
• What triggers escalate domestic violence—when is the most dangerous time for the victim and how children can be impacted long term
• The impact of COVID-19—how the pandemic changed domestic violence 
• Advocating on behalf of your client—no matter which side they are on
• And much more

Lauren says, “Bankruptcy and family law are different—family law has a lot of gray areas… bankruptcy does not. In bankruptcy, we live and die by the rules.” We sit down with her today to talk about how bankruptcy may impact your family law case. 

Listen as she walks us through:

• Two (BIG) things family lawyers need to be aware of when bankruptcy and divorce collide
• How one spouse can file for bankruptcy without the other in a community property state. She’ll walk us through the requirements and the recourse for the other spouse
• The bankruptcy automatic stay and domestic relations exceptions: when, why, and how to get relief
• What to be aware of when dealing with bankruptcy and property division (knowing this will help you protect your client's interest) 
• And much more

Judge Wooten has 27 years of experience in civil, family, and business law in the roles of trial attorney, mediator, arbitrator, and District Judge. 

Her experience has given her a wide range of knowledge and techniques designed to help her resolve even the most difficult disputes. In the last nine years, through her company, North Texas Litigation Solutions, she has handled over 1600 mediations. 

She’s joining us today to walk us through mediation dos and don’ts from a mediator’s standpoint, including:

• In-Person vs. Zoom—which is better and how attorneys can help with the mediation process using either format
• The biggest mistake she has seen clients make during mediation (and the one that shocked her) 
• The 4-letter f word to avoid for a successful mediation
• And much more

We’ve invited her on the show today to walk us through what family lawyers need to know about estate planning, including:

• The 3 critical items included in an estate plan
• The magic wand of estate planning—this is like the difference between having regular dental cleanings and a root canal
• Wills vs Trusts, which is best financially (plus other available options)
• How divorce affects your will and what people need to know about guardianship for the minor children
• Yours, mine, and ours—creative ways for blended families to avoid conflict 
• Plus much more

Larry’s Dallas based practice focuses on family law, with a specialty in mediation, and professional licensing issues. For twenty-five years, he has been preparing and defending mental health professionals in family law matters and helping them prepare for the litigation process. 

Larry sits down with me on today’s episode to talk about working with mental health professionals in your case. Listen as we discuss:

• Custody collaborations: the pros and cons of involving mental health professionals in your case and when the harm outweighs the probative value
• Amicus Attorney vs custody evaluator: which is right for your case
• How to protect the provider–client relationship and special considerations for children
• And much more

Ruby sits down with us today to discuss the intersection between family law and immigration.

Listen as she walks us through:

• Is your client's immigration status dependent on their marriage? Here are the questions you need to ask to find out and what you need to keep in mind right now (knowing this will help you effectively serve your clients)
• The 3 key issues that can change your clients' petition status
• What about the children? How a child’s status is determined, and the special provisions for children under the age of 18
• Plus much more

Today she sits down with us to discuss the distinctions of gray divorce including:

• The biggest challenges of divorcing over 50 
• How adult children can help (or hurt) the case and insights on creative ways to involve them
• The secret to winning emotionally and financially (for the entire family)
• And much more

Audrey sits down with me today to talk about arbitration, what it is, when it’s useful, and some of the pros and cons of its use in family law cases. 

Listen to learn: 

• The truth behind the Texas Arbitration Act and the interesting provision for family law
• Why you need to treat arbitration like a trial
• How to select an arbitrator
• 3 options for when you don’t like the arbitrators’ decisions and the (extremely narrow) basis to correct or modify an award
• And much more

Natalie has been practicing family law for 20 years and currently serves as the elected Bosque County Attorney. 

After her own divorce, she transitioned her firm, Koehler Law Firm P.C. to mediation, finding it was a fit for her peacemaker personality. A sixth-generation rancher, Natalie is sitting down with us today to share her special insight into rural family law cases. 

Our time together was packed with a lot of valuable insight. Listen as she walks us through:

• Key strategies for handling property issues in rural divorce – horses, cattle, equipment and ranch land
• Her two single biggest pieces of advice for a successful mediation
• Three steps family law attorneys can take to get plugged in to state bar activities (even if you are from a rural area or are just starting out)
• The one thing you should never compromise (this is critical, especially for young lawyers)
• Plus much more

We’re sitting down with her today to discuss the intersection between family law and criminal law. 

Listen as Kate walks us through: 

• The most important thing for family law attorneys to know about assault family violence charges
• Top tips for representing the accuser 
• The risks and rewards of having your accused client testify in court
• Controlling the narrative when CPS and law enforcement become involved
• The preferred type of protective order
• And more

Kathleen says, “I really genuinely think people don’t like to be in that mental and emotional state. They’re just not quite sure what to do.”

Today, we’re sitting down with Kathleen to discuss helping clients break out of the co-parenting conflict cycle and working with a mental health professional.

Listen as she walks us through: 

• The two different areas where conflict originates from and how attorneys can prepare their clients for a positive outcome
• Detailed strategies to recognize when intervention from a mental health professional is appropriate
• The two questions to ask to return the focus back to the children and the secret to helping your client make the shift to a positive co-parent relationship
• The difference between parenting facilitation and parent coordination and how to decipher which types of services you are seeking 
• And more...

Leigh’s husband is an Assistant Chief in their local fire department, which led her to specialize in working with first responders. Through this work, she learned about the effects of vicarious trauma. She soon learned that family lawyers suffer high rates of vicarious trauma due to what their jobs entail.

Leigh says, “Vicarious trauma differs from stress. It is work related exposure to victims of trauma.” We’ve invited her on the show today to talk about the impact of secondary traumatic stress among family law attorneys, and she’ll walk us through:

• Symptoms to look for to know if you are suffering from trauma
• How to maintain boundaries and employ self-care therapies to keep yourself safe from behavioral trauma burnout
• Cognitive restructuring—what is it and how you can use it to create resilience for you and your client
• And much more

Dr. Roland is Board Certified in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. She’s licensed in the State of Texas as a Psychologist and Licensed Specialist and has spent nearly 25 years working with children, adolescents and their families. She provides evaluations including  
autism spectrum, cognitive, ADHD, and child custody and adoption evaluations. 

Today we are sitting down with her to discuss educational evaluations and how they can be used in family law cases. Listen as she walks us through:

• When parents don’t agree on education for the children - what factors go into deciding what is best for the child
• What are the components of the educational evaluation
• There are more options than public or private schools. Why it’s important to consider ALL the education options (for each child)
• And much more

She says, “Psychological evaluations have a wealth of information that they can offer the court.” She’ll walk us through the psychologist's role in family law cases as well as:

• When should a psychologist become involved and how to ask the right questions to ensure you get the answers you need
• Three things that should be covered in a psychological evaluation
• Two major limitations to psychological evaluations
• Clarifying the diagnostic picture: the differences between psychiatric and psychological evaluations
• And much more

David says, “Just about every dispute has to do with money to some extent.” He joins us today to talk about his role as a financial neutral in the collaborative divorce process. Listen as he shares:

• The value of bringing in a financial planner or financial neutral in a divorce or collaborative case
• How long typical collaborative cases take and how to work with the natural frequency in collaborative divorce
• The most critical point in the collaborative process, and how neutrals can help keep your clients from dropping out 
• And much more

Early in his career, Sam met many people who were bankrupt within 5 years of their divorce. Right then, he knew he wanted to help people reach past the emotions and make the right financial decisions to not just survive divorce but thrive. Now, he helps clients with their post divorce financial planning. 

I can’t stress enough to attorneys how important it is to have a relationship with someone like Sam who can help your client make sound financial decisions.

Listen as he shares with us: 

• Why it's so important to involve financial experts early in the divorce process
• A financial planning secret almost no one thinks about
• Why it’s important to have a financial plan in place before mediation
• Creative financial solutions for “keeping the house”
• And much more

Karen’s passion is collecting past due child support no matter how old the case. 

She says, “One of the things Texas does really well is this huge array of remedies to help people collect support.”  

Today we are talking to her about what family law attorneys need to know when collecting past due support, including: 

• The process for securing child support judgements (how quickly you can get into court)
• Creative ways for collecting child support and some important things to remember when employing them
• Exactly how to use liens and levies (without court intervention) 
• How to collect attorney’s fees
• And much more

We are so happy to welcome just such an expert to the show this week. Susan Fletcher, PhD, is an author, licensed psychologist, and member of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychology. She is going to help us better understand the role of a forensic psychologist in parental alienation cases and how we can better help our clients. Our conversation covers practical strategies, including:

• How to spot signs of parental alienation
• How to find a qualified psychologist for your case
• What to expect from a retained psychologist
• How to prove (or disprove) alienation allegations in court
• And much, much more

Dr. Fletcher also leaves us with some suggested resources for both attorneys and clients. Don’t miss this episode!

Today, we’re sitting down with Cory to discuss what family lawyers need to know about the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and the issues she is seeing in her practice, including:

• The unspoken challenges and unexpected benefits of telehealth therapy
• Her tips for family lawyers to help co-parenting clients put the children first
• Her one piece of advice for helping your clients cope with the “new normal” 
• And much more...

Today she’s going to share with the Texas Family Law Insiders podcast listeners the two different facets of social media for attorneys – dealing with the social media components of family law cases and how to use social media to market your practice.

Listen as she walks us through:

• Social media slip ups—how to safeguard your clients
• Discovery—how to locate the social media dirt and get it admitted
• Which social media platforms are the most effective for building your practice (and your brand)
• And much more

The daughter of a retired Judge, Melinda is in her 27th year of practicing family law. She is a licensed mediator and has spent twenty years practicing collaborative law. She’s co-authored two books: “Divorce The Collaborative Way. Is It The Way For You?” and “Considering Divorce? Critical Things You Need to Know.”

Melinda says she was attracted to collaborative law because “it allows the participants, the husband and wife, to be their higher selves, their best selves...it’s creative and it’s forward looking.” Listen as Melinda gives us an inside look at the practice of collaborative law, including:

• What types of people make the best candidates for a collaborative divorce 
• What to do when there is an imbalance of power between the parties in a case
• Who are ‘the neutrals’ in a collaborative case and what are their roles
• How to become a Credentialed Collaborative Professional
• And much more

Before opening his own appellate law firm in 2005, Chad practiced appellate law at a medium-sized law firm and at a large law firm. Now he works on appeals of trial court judgments in every type of case imaginable. He attributes his success to the fact that he has limited his practice to handling appeals and trial court motions likely to be at issue on appeal.

Chad says, “Most appeals are won or lost in the trial court...things can be broken in the trial court that cannot be fixed on appeal.” Today we are talking to him about when to seek input from an appellate lawyer in your family law case, as well as:  

• The one mistake family law attorneys make in preparing for an appeal
• The key to fixing findings of fact prior to an appeal
• Preserving the record: temporary hearings vs final judgements
• And much more

Today we sit down with Melody to talk about the Texas Citizens Participation Act which is often referred to as the “Anti-SLAPP law.” Additionally, we discuss:

• Anti-SLAPP lawsuits in a family law context 
• The truth about Anti-SLAPP suits, social media, and the First Amendment
• Key strategies for defending an Anti-SLAPP claim
• Her one piece of advice for young family law attorneys
• And more

Shailey says, “In working with domestic abuse survivors, the biggest decisions of their lives are not made in criminal court but in family court.” We sit down with her today to talk about domestic violence and protective orders, as well as:

• 3 red flags to look for to know if you are dealing with a domestic violence situation
• The biggest challenge of domestic violence court
• Her advice for preparing and prioritizing the protective order timeline
• Protecting the rights of victims and the rights of the accused

I walk Steve through the journey of that case to the Texas Supreme Court, where they ruled 9-0 in favor of my client and in favor of protecting parental rights. The case has garnered national attention, and on this episode, I’ll break down the the Texas Supreme Court’s decision, as well as: 

• The one most important takeaway that all family law judges and attorneys need to understand about C.J.C.
• The important distinction between the statutory parental presumption and the constitutional fit parent presumption
• The most important things to consider before settling custody cases involving non-parents
• What comes next after C.J.C.
• And more

Brad is one of the few appellate family lawyers in Texas. During his nearly two decades in practice, he has achieved success in dozens of cases in Texas courts of appeals and the Texas Supreme Court, as well as the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals. A high achiever, one thing he is most proud of is the Award of Merit from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children. 

I worked with Brad on In re C.J.C. and I learned a lot from him about appellate law so I invited him on the show today to share his knowledge with us. We hope you enjoy this episode as we discuss:

• Appeal vs Mandamus in family law 
• The hurdles to relief in an appeal or mandamus
• How to properly preserve error for appeal
• The key things he sees missing in appeals
• And more

Now at her firm, Montanaro Law Firm, in Brownville, she works at the intersection between immigration, domestic violence, and family law. As she approaches a milestone year in her law career, she sits down with us to talk about domestic violence issues in family law, as well as: 

• How to use the power and control wheel to help your client
• Establishing and proving a domestic violence custody case 
• Cost-effective ways to bring expert witnesses into domestic violence cases
• And more

In the courtroom, Vonda is a force to be reckoned with, often referred to as a "pit bull in a skirt." She is running for Judge in the 255th Family District Court - Dallas County.

Today Vonda sits down to offer us some of her insider knowledge on all things child support, including:

• The 7 keys to proving a child support enforcement case
• 5 types of evidence to present in court
• The number 1 way to successfully defend a child support claim 
• And more

Noel sits down with us to talk about his process for working with attorneys and their clients at the intersection of divorce and mortgage finance. He also offers CLE-Accredited courses for family law attorneys. He reveals so many of his secrets, you really need to listen as he tells us about:

• His secrets to helping a stay at home parent keep the house
• Excludable debt in mortgages
• Different calculations to determine the buyout amount of the house
• His advice for family lawyers
• And more

Prior to making the decision to devote her practice to mediation, she built a very successful family law practice working as a litigator for over 13 years throughout North Texas.

Today we are going to talk to her about why mediation is often the best option your client has to craft a settlement aligned with their needs, how and when it works best, and:

• The key to a successful mediation for your client
• 3 tips for setting your client’s mediation expectations
• The 5 things needed to prepare for property distribution
• Her advice to young attorneys
• And more

As an advocate for children with special needs, Ms. Weeks is passionate about helping families with loved ones with disabilities, so that the person with a disability can live their best life. 

As a respected authority on special needs trusts, she often gives presentations on special needs planning for attorneys, advisors, CPAs, educators, and parents of children with special needs.

Today we are sitting down with Tresi to talk about the intersection between special needs cases and family law, as well as:

• Special needs cases and child support
• Rules for a special needs trust distribution
• Protecting the child financially for their lifetime
• And more

A lifelong Texan and family man, Boe didn’t take the usual path to becoming an attorney; he’ll tell us a bit about his journey from being the first in his family to receive post-secondary education to graduating from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston.

Family law cases sometimes require court-appointed attorneys. There are multiple types of court-appointed attorneys, and Mr. Bowen has served in and worked with all capacities. We sit down with him to learn more about these appointments, including:

• What an Amicus Attorney does and who they represent
• The role of an Attorney ad Litem 
• What types of cases might require a Guardian ad Litem
• And more

• Guardianship
• Conservatorship
• Guardianship rights for adult disabled children
• And more

Today we are talking to Hunter about the Discovery process including:

• The new discovery rules in Texas family law
• How and when to use different discovery tools
• Avoiding abusive discovery tactics
• And more

Kristal is currently wrapping up her term as Chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. Today we are talking to her about her year as Chair and all they were able to accomplish during an unprecedented time, as well as:

• The key benefits of membership in the Family Law Section
• CLEs provided by the Section
• The Family Law Section committees—what are they and what do they do?
• How to get involved in the Family Law Section
• And more

As both a child of divorce and a parent of divorce, Kurt has seen divorce in from every possible angle. This perspective is why his goal is always to mitigate the effects of divorce on children. We sit down with him today to learn more about the four points of entry for a divorce coach, as well as:

• The process of becoming a divorce coach
• A divorce coach's job
• The dynamics of the divorce coach and the attorney-client relationship
• And more

The mission of Disability Rights Texas is to help people with disabilities understand and exercise their rights under the law, ensuring their full and equal participation in society. Kathryn helps parents of students with disabilities make sure they get an appropriate education in Texas public schools. Kathryn provides helpful information for family law attorneys for cases involving a disabled child, as well as:

• Communication best practices
• Section 504 and the education of children with disabilities
• The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act-IDEA 
• ARD committees
• And more

We chat with Jennifer about collaborative law as well as:

• The collaborative commitment process
• Goals and outcomes for the collaborative process
• Helping the client formulate their why
• Resolving parenting issues
• Crafting a final decree
• And more

Dr. Zervopoulos has developed a model for how family lawyers should interact with mental health experts and mental health issues. He talks about that model, as well as:

• Methods attorneys can use to determine if there really is a mental health issue that needs to be investigated
• Distinguishing between traits and disorders
• The importance of behaviors over diagnoses
• And more

Today we sit down with Mary Evelyn to discuss recovering attorney’s fees, as well as:

• Preparing to prove your case for attorney’s fees
• Presenting your bills without violating attorney-client privilege
• Best practices for identifying fees in interlocking cases
• Keys to recovering interim and appellate attorney’s fees
• And more

We chat with Julia about: 

• TAFDA’s mission
• Parental rights and the Constitution
• How TAFDA is equipping attorneys for success in parental termination and child protection cases
• How TAFDA is affecting changes in the law to benefit families
• And more

Christy has been a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas since 1997. After six years of working as a Family Court Counselor in Dallas County Family Court Services, she went out on her own conducting private child custody evaluations and serving as an expert consultant for attorneys. Christy also works with attorneys and their clients to develop child-friendly parenting plans.

We chat with her about child custody evaluations and:

• Goals and outcomes in custody evaluations
• How attorneys can help their clients prepare for custody evaluations
• Money: balancing what you need with what you can afford
• Mistakes attorneys make during custody evaluations
• Challenging a custody evaluation
• And More

On the show we chat with her about temporary orders hearings, as well as:

• Why temporary orders are the most significant part of many family law cases.
• How to determine where your most significant issues will be in your case.
• What your clients should and shouldn’t do when answering questions from opposing counsel.
• How to use your limited time on the stand wisely.
• Some of the common mistakes she sees lawyers making at temporary orders hearings and the three things every female attorney needs to do to get prepared for practice.
• And more

In each episode, Holly will talk to an expert in family law. Guests will include family law attorneys, child custody evaluators, psychologists, mental health experts, financial experts, and others in the field.

Holly is excited to sit down for these engaging conversations about important topics in the field, and she is looking forward to sharing the stories with her listeners.

Whether you are a Texas family law attorney or another expert working in the field, you’ll not only learn about what these experts do, but you’ll learn how they do it, with helpful tips you can put to work in your own practice.

Enjoy!