Experienced in All Types of Divorce in Texas
In addition to high-asset, uncontested, contested, and gray divorce, our family law attorneys routinely help clients handle other types of divorce, including:
- Military Divorce in Dallas – Military families often face additional challenges, such as deployment and the division of military benefits. Our Dallas divorce attorneys work with you to explain how specific laws, including the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, may impact your divorce.
- Multistate Divorce – If you need to file and one or more parties resides in another state, our Dallas divorce lawyers will help you navigate the multistate divorce process and protect your interests.
What Is Fault-Based Divorce in Texas?
In Texas, couples may file for a fault-based divorce if they can demonstrate that certain conduct by one spouse caused the marriage to break down, such as adultery or cruelty.
Although no-fault divorces are more common in Dallas, there are instances where pursuing a fault-based divorce is the right choice to safeguard your financial interests or assert your rights in property division and spousal maintenance. Dallas divorce courts will consider evidence of fault—such as abuse, waste of marital assets, or infidelity—when making determinations about how property is divided or maintenance is awarded. Our Dallas divorce lawyers will help you weigh the benefits and challenges of this approach in the context of your case and the local legal landscape.
Pursuing fault-based divorce can often add to the cost and stress of proceedings, but there are situations where this approach is worthwhile.
For example, if one spouse engaged in an extramarital affair, the wronged spouse can pursue a claim for marital waste for community assets spent, including:
- Travel expenses
- Meals and gifts
- Hotels and apartments
Divorce Litigation
When couples cannot agree on divorce terms, a contested divorce must be filed.
Sometimes, divorce becomes contentious. If spouses cannot reach agreement on critical matters—child custody, division of assets, or support—then having a skilled Dallas divorce attorney is crucial for strong, effective representation through trial.
Protecting Your Interests & Assets
Protecting your interests and assets is essential in contested divorces, especially when compromise is not possible. If your spouse remains inflexible on important issues, a Dallas divorce lawyer can provide aggressive representation during hearings, discovery, and trial. Strategic negotiation and comprehensive preparation are key to achieving a fair outcome.
Our Dallas divorce lawyers have extensive experience handling disputed divorces involving property and child-related matters. We recognize that contested cases are among the most challenging experiences you'll ever face. Our team works closely with you to understand your concerns, clarify the contested issues, and define your objectives so your needs are always prioritized.
In some cases, litigation is the only way to resolve differences. However, alternative dispute resolution methods—such as collaborative law or divorce mediation —are available and may save you considerable time and expense. When court proceedings are necessary, our attorneys use their decades of experience to present your case effectively, always aiming for the best result in Dallas divorce court.
If an alternative approach is a good fit for your situation, we offer the full spectrum of dispute resolution services. Our family lawyers provide guidance tailored to your case and work to deliver cost-effective, beneficial outcomes for each client.
Schedule a consultation with a Dallas divorce lawyer! Call (214) 225-6766 or send us a message online today.
High-Asset Divorce Lawyers in Dallas, TX
High-asset divorces introduce additional layers of complexity and nuance to an already challenging process. Executives, business owners, and highly compensated professionals in Dallas often possess assets that must be carefully traced, valued, and divided. Failing to address these complexities may put your financial future at risk. Working with an experienced Dallas divorce attorney is essential for individuals in these circumstances.
Dallas’s economy features a wide range of industries, including large corporations, technology, energy, and entrepreneurial ventures. Many high-asset divorce clients in Dallas own complex compensation packages, such as stock options, deferred bonuses, or private equity, and might be involved in multiple real estate investments or professional practices. Our Dallas divorce attorneys are adept at collaborating with local financial professionals to ensure all property and assets are properly evaluated and safeguarded during negotiations and litigation in Dallas County.
Whether you have worked hard to build a business or inherited significant family wealth, you have the right to safeguard your assets during the divorce process.
Division of Community Property
Texas is a community property state, which means you and your spouse may both have a claim to each other's assets acquired during marriage. This can create unique challenges for Dallas divorce lawyers and high-net-worth individuals seeking a just division of marital property in divorce court.
Divorce Costs & Fee Structures for Dallas Divorce Attorneys
Understanding divorce costs is crucial for Dallas residents considering divorce. Dallas County filing fees typically range from $300 to $350, depending on the presence of children and the specifics of the case. Additional expenses—such as mediation, discovery, legal document preparation, or expert witnesses—are common in high-asset divorce cases and can significantly impact the total cost. At Mueller Family Law Group, our Dallas divorce attorneys provide complete transparency and guidance on anticipated fees. We offer an upfront, clear fee structure and discuss possible cost-saving strategies, such as mediation and collaborative divorce, during your consultation.
Because each Dallas divorce case is unique, total costs will vary based on the complexity and scope of property division, child custody disputes, cooperation between parties, and the overall length of the process. Our Dallas divorce lawyers focus on effective, efficient representation and proactive communication, keeping you informed of costs at every stage. Leveraging our extensive experience with Dallas-area courts, opposing counsel, and family law professionals, we prioritize value and client satisfaction throughout your divorce case.
The legal process of discovery may be necessary to compel your spouse to reveal hidden assets, such as:
- 401(k) and other retirement accounts
- Investments
- Liquid assets
- Vehicles, homes, vacation properties
- Inheritances
- Business ownership stakes
If you are facing a dissolution of marriage with substantial assets at stake, it is vital to have Dallas divorce attorneys who will help you determine what is considered marital property, accurately value these assets, and ensure your property rights are protected. Our team stands ready to assist you with every aspect.
Our family lawyers in Dallas, TX have represented professional athletes, public figures, corporate executives, business owners, and other high-net-worth individuals. Regardless of which side you are on, our Dallas divorce attorneys advocate for your rights and financial future.
Whether through negotiated settlements or litigation, you can count on our attorneys to protect your interests. We handle all forms of marital property in Dallas high-asset divorce cases, including:
- The primary residence and additional real estate
- Retirement portfolios and investments
- Professional practices—including doctors, dentists, and lawyers
- Closely held businesses
- Executive compensation
- Cars, jewelry, art, and other valuables
Our Dallas divorce lawyers ensure eligible assets are properly included in the marital estate and fairly valued with services such as:
- Locating All Assets – Utilizing forensic accountants and industry connections to find all assets, methods for addressing undisclosed income, or tracking deceptive property transfers.
- Determining the Character of Assets – Assessing whether certain assets are separate or marital, the impact of commingling, or enforcement of prenuptial agreements.
- Accurate Valuations – Engaging appraisers, CPAs, or valuation professionals to establish the worth of homes, businesses, deferred stock, and more.
In addition to our dedicated staff and a team of board-certified partners in family law, we maintain local relationships with forensic, financial, and estate planning professionals. Our deep understanding of divorce law and established Dallas network prepare us to handle any complexity during your case.
While we pursue efficient and discreet resolutions whenever possible, our Dallas divorce attorneys are always prepared to advocate in court should litigation be required. You can rely on our zealous, thorough approach for your Dallas divorce case.
Helping Protect Your Property During a High-Asset Divorce
Highly compensated professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs often receive compensation and incentives different from typical employees. Companies use complex incentive-based packages—like deferred bonuses, phantom stock, or restricted stock units—to attract and retain this talent, each of which may impact a Dallas divorce case.
In many Dallas divorces involving substantial wealth, dividing intricate compensation plans and valuing business interests requires a deep understanding of Texas property law and industry best practices. Technology and energy sector executives often receive equity grants, performance-based bonuses, or vested interests, all of which must be properly valued to achieve equitable division in divorce court. Our Dallas divorce attorneys regularly work with appraisers, valuation experts, and Dallas-based tax professionals to ensure even the most complex assets are accounted for accurately, protecting family legacies and long-term financial security.
Deferred compensation and other unique compensation packages can be difficult to value, with considerations around appreciation, vesting schedules, and shifting tax implications.
If you are navigating these issues during a divorce, it is critical to have guidance from a Dallas divorce lawyer who understands these legal and financial nuances and can work effectively toward a fair outcome.
Our Dallas divorce attorneys at Mueller Family Law Group draw on over a century of combined experience to address high-net-worth issues, including:
- Compensation
- Stock options
- Stock purchase plans
- Retirement benefits
- Profit-sharing plans
- Pensions
- Defined benefit plans
- Bonuses
- 401(k)s
When needed, we collaborate with forensic professionals to uncover, evaluate, and protect your assets. Our dedication to thorough investigations and rigorous valuation has helped clients safeguard their financial well-being and set a strong foundation after divorce in Dallas, Texas.
Ready to consult a Dallas divorce lawyer? Call (214) 225-6766 or contact us online today!
How High-Asset Divorce Cases Affect Custody & Support
The most important priorities in any high-asset Dallas divorce are your family and finances. Whether you are facing divorce, separation, or child custody disputes, it is essential for affluent families to work with a Dallas divorce lawyer equipped to protect both your loved ones and your future.
Dallas Divorce Residency & Filing Requirements
In Texas, before filing for divorce in Dallas, specific residency requirements must be met. At least one spouse must have lived in Texas for at least six months and in Dallas County for a minimum of 90 days. Dallas County family courts, including the 254th and 301st District Courts, enforce these requirements strictly; failure to comply will delay or prevent your petition from advancing. Our Dallas divorce attorneys verify eligibility before filing so your case begins on solid legal footing. With deep local roots, we know the courts, staff, and Dallas court procedures to streamline your filing and reduce administrative issues.
After confirming residency, your divorce petition is filed in Dallas County, and your case is assigned to the appropriate district court. Service of process, temporary orders, and supporting documentation follow, each step supported by our lawyers’ understanding of Dallas procedures. We guide clients through court appearances and filings while managing communication with court staff, easing the process so you can focus on your next chapter with peace of mind.
In many cases, the children of high-net-worth couples live different lives than most. Private schools, extracurricular programs, designer clothing, and frequent travel are common expenses for these families.
Dallas family courts are accustomed to handling high-asset divorces and recognize the need to maintain a child's standard of living. Our Dallas divorce attorneys develop and present robust parenting and support plans to address private school tuition, enrichment, childcare, and extraordinary costs. We work with local planners and financial experts to present a complete picture and advocate for a support arrangement tailored to Dallas’s high standards of living and judicial expectations. Our experience with the Dallas legal system can help guide you to a positive, practical solution for your family.
When a high-net-worth couple divorces, the standard child support guidelines may not meet the needs of a child accustomed to a different lifestyle. In these cases, our Dallas divorce attorneys can seek child support above statutory maximums or, conversely, defend against unreasonable claims, always presenting strong, credible arguments before the court.
At Mueller Family Law Group, our Dallas divorce lawyers have represented both sides in complex support cases—helping custodial parents obtain support beyond standard guidelines and helping payors avoid excessive burdens. Our case preparation and advocacy help ensure a balanced and reasonable support determination for all parties in Dallas County.
We carefully analyze every aspect of your family’s finances, using proven strategies developed in Dallas courts, to guide you to a sustainable, positive support arrangement. Our history of success in these matters ensures you will benefit from our deep understanding of what Dallas judges expect in high-asset support cases.