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Texas follows community property laws, meaning most assets acquired during the marriage are split in a way the court deems “just and right.” This doesn’t always mean 50/50. Separate property—like gifts, inheritances, or assets owned before marriage—generally isn’t divided.

Texas uses the term “conservatorship” instead of custody. Courts usually name both parents joint managing conservators, meaning they share rights and duties. However, one parent may be given the right to decide the child’s primary residence. Custody decisions are always based on the child’s best interest.

If you’re arrested anywhere in Texas, immediately state “I am exercising my right to remain silent and I want an attorney,” then actually remain silent. Don’t resist arrest or consent to searches. Make your phone call to someone who can help with bail and finding an attorney. Don’t discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer, especially on recorded jail phones. Document everything about your arrest when possible. Attend all court appearances and follow all conditions of your release precisely.

Yes, criminal charges can be dismissed or reduced through several paths:

1. Prosecutors may dismiss charges if there’s insufficient evidence, if evidence was obtained illegally, if witnesses become unavailable, or when they decide prosecution isn’t in the public interest.
2. Charges can be reduced through plea bargaining, where defendants plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for having more serious charges dropped or reduced.
3. Diversion programs offer alternatives to traditional prosecution for eligible defendants, especially first-time offenders. Successful completion of treatment, community service, or educational programs can lead to dismissal.
4. Procedural issues like speedy trial violations, improper filing, or other legal technicalities can result in dismissal.
5. Some jurisdictions have specialty courts (drug courts, mental health courts, veterans courts) that may offer reduced charges or dismissal upon program completion.
6. Defense attorneys can file motions to suppress evidence if it was illegally obtained, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case enough to warrant dismissal or reduction.

You have the right to enforce the terms of the contract, seek damages for a breach, or ask the court for specific performance (forcing the deal to go through). Texas law also allows you to rescind the contract in some cases or pursue mediation or arbitration if required by the agreement.

Start by documenting the defect and notifying the contractor in writing. Under Texas law, you must give the contractor an opportunity to inspect and offer to repair before filing a lawsuit. If they refuse or fail to fix the issue, you may pursue legal action for damages, repairs, or breach of contract.

A will may be enough if your estate is simple, you don’t have minor children, and you’re fine with going through probate. A trust may be better if you want to avoid probate, own property in multiple states, have privacy concerns, or need to provide for minor children or special needs. Many Texans use both—a trust for key assets and a will to cover everything else.

Probate in Texas typically takes 6 months to a year, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the estate, whether there’s a will, and if any disputes arise. Simple estates with no conflict may be wrapped up in a few months.