Life can take unexpected twists and turns and it is important to be ready for them. The last thing you may ever have thought you would need to address is what to do if your partner passes away during your divorce. But if your partner is currently suffering from a chronic illness, this event may not seem so far away. 

If you are facing the prospect of a partner who has passed on in the middle of the divorce process, it is important to be well-informed. We suggest you contact a lawyer who can answer your questions and concerns. At Brandon Wong & Associates, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. We make every effort to establish a welcoming atmosphere where all questions are treated with concern and care and will handle your case with the sensitivity it deserves.

What is the Next Step After the Death of a Partner During Divorce?

Having your partner die during your divorce is certainly unusual, but the law in the Lone Star State dictates what should happen next on these rare occasions. According to Texas state law, if one partner passes away before the case is resolved, the divorce is dismissed. This means that the case will not proceed in court. Instead, a lawyer will officially report that their client has died. The living partner will then be viewed as a widowed individual rather than someone who went through the divorce process.

Of all your assets, it is probable that the worth of your house is the most valuable. It is also likely a place where you feel comfortable and at ease. Because it is of great importance, you may be worried about this issue. If you are in the process of getting a divorce, you might wonder: Will you receive the rights to your house?

Like most areas of law, the answer to this question is not simple. But, with dedication and effort, a suitable answer can be discovered. In order to find a solution that aligns with your needs, we suggest you contact a Texas lawyer who can assist you. Here at Brandon Wong & Associates, we are here to help you navigate your journey.

If you are required to pay child support, and you have lost your job, you may be wondering about how your obligations will be affected. It is important to understand that until a child support modification order is issued by the court, you cannot stop making child support payments.

The Legal Obligation to Pay Child Support

The state of Texas has put guidelines in place to determine child support payments based on factors like the income earned by parents and the number of children. Once an order for child support has been put in place by the court system, it is legally binding until it is modified or terminated through proper channels. Losing your job does not automatically relieve you of your requirement to pay child support. You must keep making payments as ordered, and if you miss any payments, these amounts will be owed until they are paid in full.

Petition for Modification of Child Support

If your circumstances change due to unemployment or any other reasons for a loss of income, it may be possible to seek a modification of your child support order. However, keep in mind that temporary or short-term unemployment may not merit changes unless other factors are involved, such as health issues or disability.

Getting a divorce can be a complex process, and the division of marital assets can be one issue that may lead to contentious disputes and concerns about inappropriate behavior. In some cases, one spouse may attempt to conceal or hide assets during a couple’s divorce proceedings. This can have serious consequences for the other party, since it may affect their ability to receive a fair share of the marital estate.

In Texas, spouses are required to disclose all their assets and debts during divorce proceedings. However, despite this legal obligation, some individuals may choose to hide certain assets in an attempt to minimize their financial obligations or secure more favorable terms in a property settlement. A person who suspects that their spouse has engaged in this type of behavior will need to understand how to address these issues and ensure that all forms of marital property will be considered correctly during their divorce.

Mandatory Disclosure Requirements

Under Texas law, divorcing spouses must provide each other with a full financial disclosure. This will include a detailed inventory of all assets and liabilities, including both separate property and community property. Assets that will need to be disclosed include real estate properties, bank accounts, investments, vehicles, business interests, retirement accounts, and personal belongings. In addition, parties are also required to disclose any outstanding debts, such as mortgages, loans, credit card balances, and tax liens. 

Going through a divorce is challenging for any family, and one of the most difficult aspects involves discussing it with your children. Handling this conversation with care and sensitivity is crucial to help your children navigate this significant life change. Here are some helpful tips on discussing the end of your marriage with your children and ensuring that your family will be prepared for the changes you will be going through.

Honesty Is the Best Policy

When discussing your divorce with your children, it is important to be honest with them. While it can be tempting to sugarcoat the situation or shield them from the truth, children are perceptive and can sense when something is wrong. Explain the situation in an age-appropriate manner using clear and simple language. Assure them that the divorce is not their fault and that both parents still love them.

Consider Their Age and Development

A child's understanding of divorce will vary depending on their age and developmental stage. Younger children may struggle to grasp the concept of divorce, while older children may have more questions and concerns about how their lives will change. Tailor your conversation to your child’s level of understanding and be prepared to address their specific concerns and emotions.