FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY
Family Law Attorney
in Waxahachie &
Ellis County, TX
Experienced Family Law Representation
for Individuals and Families Across
North Texas
Schedule a Consultation →
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TOM E. SMALLEY, ATTORNEY AT LAW
Trusted Legal Guidance
for Every Chapter of Your Life
Family law disputes often involve some of the most important decisions you'll ever make. Whether you're facing divorce, a child custody dispute, support issues, or adoption proceedings, having experienced legal guidance can help you protect your rights and your future.
At Tom E. Smalley, Attorney at Law, we have been helping clients throughout Ellis County, Waxahachie, Midlothian, and surrounding North Texas communities navigate complex family law matters for decades. We understand that no two families are alike, which is why every case receives personal attention and a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Our goal is to provide practical legal solutions while helping you move through the process with confidence and clarity.
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DIVORCE
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CHILD CUSTODY
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CHILD SUPPORT
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ADOPTION
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MODIFICATIONS
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PROPERTY DIVISION IN TEXAS DIVORCE
Protecting Your Assets
and Your Future
One of the most significant aspects of divorce involves determining how marital property should be divided. Texas is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage may be subject to division.
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Community Property
Real Estate, Retirement Accounts, Investment Portfolios, Business Interests, Vehicles, Bank Accounts, Personal Property
Our office helps clients identify, value, and properly divide marital assets while protecting their legal interests.
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Separate Property Claims
Not all property is considered marital property. Assets owned before marriage, inherited assets, gifted property, and certain personal injury recoveries may qualify as separate property.
We assist clients in identifying and documenting separate property claims to ensure those assets receive appropriate legal protection.
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Reimbursement Claims
Certain divorce cases involve situations where one spouse's separate property has contributed to the growth or value of community assets, or vice versa.
These claims can become highly technical and may significantly impact the final property division. We help clients evaluate reimbursement claims and pursue appropriate compensation when applicable.
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Retirement Asset Division
QDROs & Retirement Asset Division
Retirement accounts are frequently among the most valuable marital assets.
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) are specialized legal documents used to divide certain retirement benefits following divorce. These orders must comply with both court requirements and retirement plan regulations.
Our office assists clients with the preparation and implementation of QDROs to ensure retirement assets are properly addressed.
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Family Law Services
Paternity Matters
Establishing legal parentage can impact child custody, visitation rights, child support obligations, and inheritance rights.
We represent clients in a variety of paternity-related matters, including:
- Establishment of Paternity
- Contested Paternity Claims
- Father's Rights Cases
- Conservatorship Matters
- Child Support Issues
Obtaining legal clarity regarding parentage provides important protections for both parents and children.
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Family Relationships
Adoption & Termination of Parental Rights
Adoption creates permanent legal relationships that can profoundly impact families for generations.
Our firm assists with:
- Stepparent Adoptions
- Relative Adoptions
- Grandparent Adoptions
- Family Adoptions
- Termination of Parental Rights Proceedings
Whether your matter is contested or uncontested, we provide guidance throughout each step of the process.
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Protecting Family Connections
Grandparent Rights & Visitation
Grandparents often play an important role in a child's life. In certain situations, Texas law may permit grandparents to seek visitation or possession rights.
Our office can evaluate your circumstances and explain your legal options while advocating for arrangements that serve the child's best interests.
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Changing Family Circumstances
Post-Divorce Modifications
Life circumstances change after a divorce is finalized. A court order that worked years ago may no longer meet your family's needs today.
We assist clients seeking modifications involving:
- Child Custody
- Visitation Schedules
- Child Support
- Spousal Support
- Conservatorship Provisions
When substantial changes occur, a modification may be necessary to reflect current circumstances.
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Court Order Enforcement
Enforcement Actions & Custody Violations
When a court order is violated, legal action may be necessary to protect your rights.
We represent clients in enforcement matters involving:
- Denied Visitation
- Custody Order Violations
- Failure to Pay Child Support
- Non-Compliance with Court Orders
- Contempt Proceedings
Prompt legal action can help ensure existing court orders are enforced and respected.
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Financial Protection
Spousal Support & Alimony
Financial concerns are often a major issue during and after divorce. Depending on the circumstances, a spouse may be entitled to temporary support during the divorce process or post-divorce maintenance.
We help clients pursue or defend against spousal support claims while protecting their financial interests.
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Experienced Legal Representation
Why Choose Tom E. Smalley, Attorney at Law?
- Serving Ellis County and surrounding communities since 1974
- Extensive family law experience
- Personalized legal strategies
- Direct attorney guidance
- Responsive communication
- Compassionate representation during difficult times
We understand the emotional and financial challenges family law cases can create and work diligently to help clients move forward with confidence.
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Take the Next Step
Schedule a Family Law Consultation
Family law decisions can have a lasting impact on your future, your finances, and your family relationships. Whether you are considering divorce, facing a custody dispute, seeking support modifications, or exploring adoption options, our office is here to help.
Contact Tom E. Smalley, Attorney at Law today to schedule a consultation and discuss your family law matter.
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