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		<title>Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP Is Growing: Now Hiring Litigation Paralegals in Austin</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/bollier-ciccone-stinson-llp-is-growing-now-hiring-litigation-paralegals-in-austin/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Victoria Pollock]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 14:39:34 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3855</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>As Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP continues to grow, we are expanding our litigation support team and seeking experienced paralegals for two full-time positions in our Austin office. Our firm is built on professionalism, collaboration, strong client service, and high-quality legal work. We are proud to serve clients throughout Central Texas across a wide range of  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/bollier-ciccone-stinson-llp-is-growing-now-hiring-litigation-paralegals-in-austin/">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP Is Growing: Now Hiring Litigation Paralegals in Austin</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP continues to grow, we are expanding our litigation support team and seeking experienced paralegals for two full-time positions in our Austin office.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our firm is built on professionalism, collaboration, strong client service, and high-quality legal work. We are proud to serve clients throughout Central Texas across a wide range of complex litigation matters, and we recognize the important role experienced paralegals play in delivering excellent outcomes for our clients.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">See the two in-office position descriptions and application instructions on our careers page, </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/careers"><span style="font-weight: 400;">bclawtx.com/careers</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Family Law Litigation Paralegal</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are seeking an experienced <a href="https://bclawtx.com/about/careers/family-law-litigation-paralegal/">Family Law Litigation Paralegal</a> to support attorneys handling contested family law matters, including divorce, child custody, enforcement actions, modifications, and complex property division matters.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing litigation deadlines, client communication, discovery, hearing preparation, and trial support in a fast-paced environment. Strong familiarity with Texas litigation procedures and e-filing systems is preferred.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Civil Litigation Paralegal</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are also seeking an experienced <a href="https://bclawtx.com/about/careers/civil-litigation-paralegal/">Civil Litigation Paralegal</a> to support our construction, business law, and real estate litigation team.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This role involves assisting attorneys with litigation-related drafting, discovery management, hearings, mediations, calendaring, client communication, and case organization. Experience in construction and real estate litigation is preferred, but not required.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why Join Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is an established Austin litigation firm committed to providing exceptional legal service while fostering a professional, team-oriented work environment.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We value attention to detail, reliability, initiative, strong communication skills, and a collaborative approach to legal work. Our team is dedicated to building long-term careers for professionals who take pride in excellent work and client service.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Both positions offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including health benefits, PTO, 401(k) opportunities, professional development support, and more.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apply</span></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Qualified candidates may submit application materials to Maria Benning at mbenning@bclawtx.com.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To learn more about these opportunities, please visit the <a href="https://bclawtx.com/about/careers/">careers</a> page on the Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP website.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></h2>
<p><i>Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</i></p>
<p><i>Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</i></p>
<p><i>Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</i><i></i><i>Learn more at</i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i>BClawTX.com</i></a><i>.</i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/bollier-ciccone-stinson-llp-is-growing-now-hiring-litigation-paralegals-in-austin/">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP Is Growing: Now Hiring Litigation Paralegals in Austin</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Modifying Child Custody Orders in Williamson County: What’s Required?</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/modifying-child-custody-orders-in-williamson-county-whats-required/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 May 2026 00:27:50 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3863</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney    For many parents in the Austin area, a custody order that once worked well may no longer fit the realities of daily life. Children grow older, work schedules change, parents relocate, and new concerns can arise regarding a child’s education, safety, or emotional well-being. When  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/modifying-child-custody-orders-in-williamson-county-whats-required/">Modifying Child Custody Orders in Williamson County: What’s Required?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney </span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For many parents in the Austin area, a</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/navigating-divorce-with-children-in-travis-county-courts/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">custody order</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that once worked well may no longer fit the realities of daily life. Children grow older, work schedules change, parents relocate, and new concerns can arise regarding a child’s education, safety, or emotional well-being. When those circumstances significantly affect an existing custody arrangement, Texas law may allow parents to request a modification.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are seeking to </span><b>modify custody in Williamson County, Texas</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, (and nearby counties) understanding the legal standards and court process is critical. Texas courts do not automatically approve custody changes simply because one parent wants a different arrangement or believes a different schedule would be preferable. Instead, the court must determine whether the requested change is legally justified and in the child’s best interests. Although this guide focuses on Williamson County, the legal standards discussed generally apply to families throughout Central Texas, including Travis, Hays, Bastrop, and Williamson counties.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, our Austin-area family law team helps parents throughout Williamson County and beyond navigate custody modifications efficiently and with a clear understanding of their legal options. Below, we explain how Texas courts handle custody modifications, what evidence may be required, and what parents should expect during the process. </span></p>
<p><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3866" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-300x199.png" alt="Childing holding parent's hand" width="519" height="344" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-400x265.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-600x398.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-768x509.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-800x530.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 519px) 100vw, 519px" /></p>
<h2><b>Understanding Child Custody in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas, “custody” is legally referred to as </span><b>conservatorship</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><b>possession and access</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conservatorship addresses parental rights and duties, including decision-making authority for education, healthcare, and other important matters. Possession and access refers to the parenting schedule and visitation arrangements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When parents seek to modify an existing custody order</span><b> in Austin</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or </span><b>Williamson</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> County, they are generally asking the court to modify one or more of the following:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The possession schedule</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Decision-making authority</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Primary residence designation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Child support obligations tied to custody (child support modifications are governed by separate statutory standards)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Geographic restrictions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Holiday and summer schedules</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Custody orders in Williamson County regularly originate from the Texas district courts handling family law matters. Once signed, those orders remain legally enforceable until modified by a subsequent court order.</span></p>
<h2><b>When Can a Custody Order Be Modified?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Under</span><a href="https://texas.public.law/statutes/tex._fam._code_section_156.101"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Family Code Section 156.101</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a court may modify a custody order if:¹</span></p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The modification would be in the child’s best interests; and</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">There has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the prior order was entered.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The court may also consider modification if:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The child is at least 12 years old and expresses a preference regarding primary residence to the court in chambers; or</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The primary conservator has voluntarily given another person primary care and possession of the child for at least six months, unless the arrangement was temporary due to military duty.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The “material and substantial change” requirement is one of the most important legal standards in any custody modification case.</span></p>
<h2><b>What Counts as a Material and Substantial Change?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas law does not provide a single definition of “material and substantial change.” Instead, Williamson County courts evaluate the facts of each case individually.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Examples that may justify modifying custody include:</span></p>
<h3><b>Relocation or Significant Schedule Changes</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A parent may receive a new job requiring relocation or substantial travel. Job-related moves are common and can directly affect parenting schedules.</span></p>
<h3><b>Concerns About the Child’s Safety</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Evidence of neglect, substance abuse, domestic violence, unsafe living conditions, or criminal activity may support modification if the child’s well-being is at risk.</span></p>
<h3><b>Changes in the Child’s Needs</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As children age, educational, medical, or emotional needs can evolve. A parenting schedule that worked for a toddler may no longer suit a teenager’s academic and extracurricular demands.</span></p>
<h3><b>Parental Noncompliance</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Repeated violations of the current custody order, including denied visitation or failure to co-parent effectively, may become relevant in modification proceedings.</span></p>
<h3><b>Remarriage or Household Changes</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A parent’s remarriage alone typically does not justify modification, but significant changes within a household can become relevant if they impact the child’s welfare.</span></p>
<h2><b>The “Best Interests of the Child” Standard</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even if circumstances have changed, Williamson County courts must still determine whether the requested modification serves the child’s best interests.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas courts often evaluate factors established in the Texas Supreme Court case </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Holley v. Adams</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, including:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The child’s emotional and physical needs</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The stability of each parent’s home</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Each parent’s ability to care for the child</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The child’s relationship with each parent</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Any history of abuse or neglect</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Educational and developmental considerations</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Judges generally favor arrangements that promote stability and encourage healthy parent-child relationships.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3865" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-300x221.png" alt="Parent hugging child" width="453" height="334" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-200x148.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-300x221.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-400x295.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-600x443.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-768x567.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-800x591.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 453px) 100vw, 453px" /></p>
<h2><b>How the Modification Process Works in Williamson County</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Parents seeking to </span><b>modify custody in Williamson County, Texas</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> must follow formal court procedures. While every case differs, the process typically includes the following stages.</span></p>
<h2><b>Filing the Petition to Modify</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The process begins by filing a Petition to Modify the Parent-Child Relationship in the appropriate Texas court. In many cases involving Williamson County residents, this occurs in the court that issued the original order.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The petition must clearly explain:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The requested changes</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The legal basis for modification</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Why the modification serves the child’s best interests</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Serving the Other Parent</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The other parent must receive formal legal notice of the modification request. They have the right to respond and contest the proposed changes.</span></p>
<h2><b>Temporary Orders</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some situations, temporary orders may be necessary while the case is pending. Courts may issue temporary custody arrangements if immediate concerns affect the child’s safety or stability.</span></p>
<h2><b>Mediation</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Williamson County courts commonly require mediation before trial. Mediation allows parents to negotiate custody modifications with the assistance of a neutral third party.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many cases resolve during mediation, helping parents resolve disputes without the uncertainty and expense of trial.</span></p>
<h2><b>Court Hearing or Trial</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If parents cannot reach an agreement, the case proceeds to a hearing or trial. Each side may present:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Witness testimony</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">School or medical records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Communication records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Financial documentation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Expert evaluations</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The judge ultimately decides whether modification is legally appropriate.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3864" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-300x198.png" alt="" width="395" height="261" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-300x198.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-400x263.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-600x395.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-768x506.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6-800x527.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-6.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 395px) 100vw, 395px" /></p>
<h2><b>Can a Child Choose Where to Live?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas law allows judges to interview children who are at least 12 years old regarding their preferences about primary residence. However, the child does not make the final decision.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The court considers the child’s wishes alongside all other relevant evidence affecting the child’s best interests.</span></p>
<h2><b>Emergency Custody Modifications</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some circumstances, parents may need immediate court intervention.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Emergency modifications may be appropriate when:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A child faces immediate danger</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Abuse or neglect is alleged</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A parent threatens unlawful relocation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Serious substance abuse issues arise</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">C</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">ourts can issue temporary emergency orders while the full case proceeds through the legal process.</span></p>
<h2><b>Common Mistakes Parents Should Avoid</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Parents seeking to </span><b>change a parenting plan in Austin</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or Williamson County should avoid several common errors.</span></p>
<h3><b>Informal Agreements Without Court Approval</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Parents sometimes agree to custody changes informally without modifying the court order. However, verbal agreements may become unenforceable and create future disputes.</span></p>
<h3><b>Withholding Visitation Without Legal Grounds</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A parent generally cannot deny court-ordered visitation simply because they disagree with the other parent’s behavior unless immediate safety concerns exist.</span></p>
<h3><b>Failing to Document Concerns</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Documentation can be critical in modification cases. Parents should preserve:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Communication records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">School reports</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Medical records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Calendars and parenting logs</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Delaying Action</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Waiting too long to address custody concerns may weaken a case or prolong instability for the child.</span></p>
<h2><b>Why Local Experience Matters in Williamson County Cases</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While Texas family law is governed by statewide statutes, local court procedures and practices can vary from county to county. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An attorney familiar with Williamson County family courts can help:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Evaluate whether modification is legally justified</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Prepare persuasive evidence</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Navigate mediation requirements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Advocate effectively during hearings</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">B</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">ecause custody disputes directly affect children and families, careful preparation is essential.</span></p>
<h2><b>Frequently Asked Questions</b></h2>
<h3><b>How difficult is it to modify custody in Texas?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas courts require proof of both a material and substantial change in circumstances and that the modification serves the child’s best interests. The difficulty depends on the facts and quality of supporting evidence.</span></p>
<h3><b>Can parents agree to modify custody without going to court?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Parents may reach agreements, but the court must still approve and sign a modified order for it to become legally enforceable.</span></p>
<h3><b>How long does a custody modification take in Williamson County?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The timeline varies depending on whether the case is contested. Agreed modifications may resolve relatively quickly, while contested litigation can take several months or longer.</span></p>
<h3><b>Can custody be modified because a parent moved?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Possibly. Relocation can significantly affect visitation schedules, school arrangements, and the child’s stability. Courts evaluate whether the move justifies modification.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3665" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png" alt="Leslie Bollier and Susannah Stinson, Austin Family Law" width="436" height="403" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-200x185.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-400x369.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-600x554.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-768x709.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-800x738.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3.png 854w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Speak With an Austin-Area Child Custody Attorney</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Custody modification cases can become complex, particularly when parents disagree about what arrangement best serves their child. Whether you are seeking to adjust visitation schedules, address safety concerns, or relocate, understanding the legal standards is essential.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Bollier Ciccone Stinson family law team helps parents throughout Williamson County pursue practical, child-focused solutions grounded in Texas law. By carefully preparing evidence and understanding local court procedures, parents can place themselves in a stronger position when requesting custody modifications.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> BCS Family Law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> practice is led by veteran Board-Certified Family Law attorneys</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Leslie Bollier</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Susannah Stinson</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, who are recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Contact the experienced attorneys at</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for a consultation.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ Tex. Fam. Code § 156.101.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business </span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested </span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, </span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/modifying-child-custody-orders-in-williamson-county-whats-required/">Modifying Child Custody Orders in Williamson County: What’s Required?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Common Law Marriage in Austin: Rights Upon Separation</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/common-law-marriage-in-austin-rights-upon-separation/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 02 May 2026 20:24:49 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3871</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Leslie J. Bollier, Board Certified in Family Law Austin couples are increasingly building long-term relationships, purchasing homes together, raising children, and combining finances without ever having a formal wedding ceremony. But when a relationship ends, many people are surprised to learn that Texas may still consider them legally married. For higher-income couples, business owners,  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/common-law-marriage-in-austin-rights-upon-separation/">Common Law Marriage in Austin: Rights Upon Separation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Leslie J. Bollier, Board Certified in Family Law</span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin couples are increasingly building long-term relationships, purchasing homes together, raising children, and combining finances without ever having a formal wedding ceremony. But when a relationship ends, many people are surprised to learn that Texas may still consider them legally married.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For higher-income couples, business owners, professionals, and long-term partners with significant assets, the legal consequences can be substantial. Questions about real estate, retirement accounts, business ownership, custody, and support often depend on whether a valid informal marriage existed under Texas law.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At BCS Law, our</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin family law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> commonly hears this question, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Are we married under common law in Texas?”</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Closely followed by, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">“What happens if we split up?”</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The answer depends on specific legal requirements under Texas law and the evidence available to prove the relationship. Below, we outline how Texas courts evaluate informal marriage claims and what rights may apply after separation.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3872" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-300x199.png" alt="Common Law Married Couple by the pool" width="478" height="317" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-600x399.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-768x511.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-800x532.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 478px) 100vw, 478px" /></p>
<h2><b>Does Texas Recognize Common Law Marriage?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes. Texas recognizes what the law calls an “informal marriage,” commonly referred to as a common law marriage. Under the</span><a href="https://texas.public.law/statutes/tex._fam._code_section_2.401"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Family Code</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, an informal marriage is legally treated the same as a ceremonial marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That means if a court determines that an informal marriage existed, the couple may need to go through a formal divorce process to divide property, resolve custody issues, and determine financial obligations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas law does not require a wedding ceremony, marriage license, or formal officiant to create a valid marriage. Instead, courts look at the conduct and intentions of the couple.</span></p>
<h2><b>The Legal Requirements for an Informal Marriage in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Under Texas Family Code Section 2.401, an informal marriage may be proved either by a signed Declaration of Informal Marriage or by evidence showing three things:¹</span></p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The couple agreed to be married</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">They lived together in Texas as spouses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">They represented to others that they were married</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All three factors matter. Simply living together for many years does not automatically create a marriage in Texas.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This is one of the biggest misconceptions we encounter among Austin couples. There is no “seven-year rule,” “six-month rule,” or automatic timeline that converts cohabitation into marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead, courts evaluate the totality of the evidence.</span></p>
<h2><b>What Counts as “Holding Yourselves Out” as Married?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the most heavily litigated issues in Texas informal marriage cases is whether the couple represented themselves publicly as married.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Evidence may include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Filing joint tax returns</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Using the same last name</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Referring to each other as spouses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Introducing each other as husband or wife</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Naming one another as spouses on insurance or employment records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Financial, mortgage, insurance, or employment records identifying the parties as spouses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Social media posts or public statements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Estate planning documents</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Beneficiary designations</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas courts often examine emails, text messages, financial records, mortgage applications, and testimony from friends or family members.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These disputes are often highly fact-specific and may involve significant financial consequences.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3873" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-300x200.png" alt="Unwed couple buying house together" width="437" height="291" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-300x200.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-600x400.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-768x511.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1-800x533.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2-1.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 437px) 100vw, 437px" /></p>
<h2><b>Why Informal Marriage Issues Commonly Arise in Austin</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s growth has created a large population of long-term unmarried couples. Many partners</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-real-estate-benefits-of-having-a-divorce-and-real-estate-attorney/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">buy homes together</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in the Austin area without formalizing the relationship through a ceremony.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Central Texas, we frequently see disputes involving:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jointly owned real estate</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Startup equity and stock options</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Retirement accounts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Family businesses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment portfolios</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Professional practices</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Blended families</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Long-term cohabitation with children</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When these relationships end, one partner may claim the couple was legally married while the other argues they were simply dating or cohabiting.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The outcome can dramatically affect property rights.</span></p>
<h2><b>What Happens if You Separate in an Informal Marriage?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If a valid informal marriage existed, separation is legally treated much like the breakup of a traditional marriage.</span></p>
<h3><b>Property Division</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas is a</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-texas-a-community-property-state/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">community property state</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Property possessed by either spouse during divorce is generally presumed to be community property unless proven separate by clear and convincing evidence.²</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That can include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Homes purchased during the relationship</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Retirement contributions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Business income, ownership interests, valuation issues, or reimbursement claims</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment gains</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vehicles</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Debt accumulated during the marriage</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If one party claims an informal marriage existed, they may seek a division of assets through divorce proceedings.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This becomes especially important for older couples or professionals who accumulated</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-a-high-asset-divorce-in-austin-texas/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">substantial wealth</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> during the relationship.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example, if one partner helped support the other while a business expanded significantly, the growth in the </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-business-valuation-in-texas-what-austin-business-owners-need-to-know/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">business’s value</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> could become an issue in the divorce proceedings.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3874" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-300x198.png" alt="Informal marriage couple with child" width="442" height="292" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-300x198.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-400x264.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-600x396.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-768x507.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1-800x529.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 442px) 100vw, 442px" /></p>
<h2><b>Do You Need a Divorce for a Common Law Marriage?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If an informal marriage is established, the relationship generally must be ended through divorce.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many people mistakenly believe they can simply “break up” because there was never a wedding ceremony. But under Texas law, an informal marriage is still a marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That means ending the relationship may require:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Filing for divorce</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dividing community property</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Addressing potential spousal maintenance claims</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Resolving child custody issues</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allocating debt</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If no legal marriage existed, however, ordinary contract and property laws may apply instead.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Determining which situation applies is often the first major legal issue.</span></p>
<h2><b>The Two-Year Rule in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas law also creates an important timing issue when proving an informal marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If neither person starts a case to prove the informal marriage within two years after they separate and stop living together, Texas law presumes they did not agree to be married. That presumption can be challenged, but it may make the claim harder to prove.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This does not automatically bar a claim, but it can make proving the marriage substantially more difficult.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For Austin couples who separated years ago but still share assets or unresolved financial issues, timing matters significantly.</span></p>
<h2><b>Child Custody and Support Issues</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Children born to unmarried parents still have legal rights regardless of marital status.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas courts focus on the best interests of the child when determining:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conservatorship (custody)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Possession schedules</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/calculating-austin-child-support-beyond-the-guidelines/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Child support</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Decision-making authority</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even if no informal marriage existed, parents may still need court orders establishing parental rights and obligations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, if an informal marriage is proven, custody issues may proceed within the broader divorce case.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For established Austin families, disputes often involve:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Private school decisions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Relocation concerns</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shared business schedules</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Complex parenting arrangements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Healthcare and extracurricular expenses</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Can You Register an Informal Marriage?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes. Texas allows couples to sign a Declaration and Registration of Informal Marriage through the county clerk.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This document serves as strong evidence of marriage and can reduce disputes over whether the relationship qualifies legally.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, many couples never complete this process, which is why litigation frequently centers on proving the relationship through circumstantial evidence instead.</span></p>
<h2><b>Common Misconceptions About Texas Common Law Marriage</b></h2>
<h3><b>“We lived together for years, so we are automatically married.”</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">False. Time alone does not create a marriage in Texas.</span></p>
<h3><b>“We planned to get married someday.”</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Planning to marry later is not the same as agreeing you are already married. Courts look for a present agreement to be spouses.</span></p>
<h3><b>“Only formally married couples divide assets.”</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If an informal marriage existed, community property laws may still apply.</span></p>
<h3><b>“If there was no wedding, there is no divorce.”</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also false. Valid informal marriages generally require a formal divorce process to end.</span></p>
<h2><b>Why Legal Guidance Matters in Austin Informal Marriage Cases</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Disputes involving Texas common law marriage divorce claims can become highly technical and emotionally charged.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These cases often involve overlapping issues such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Child custody</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Real estate ownership</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tracing separate property</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Business valuation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hidden assets</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Retirement division</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Estate planning conflicts</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For high-net-worth couples with complex finances, early legal analysis can significantly affect the outcome.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A family law attorney can help determine:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether an informal marriage likely existed</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What evidence supports or weakens the claim</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether community property laws apply</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">How to protect separate assets</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What steps are necessary after separation</span></li>
</ul>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3665" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png" alt="Leslie Bollier and Susannah Stinson, Austin Family Law" width="427" height="394" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-200x185.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-400x369.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-600x554.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-768x709.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-800x738.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3.png 854w" sizes="(max-width: 427px) 100vw, 427px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Assets in a Common Law Separation</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s evolving lifestyle trends mean more couples are building long-term lives together outside traditional marriage structures. But under Texas law, a relationship may still be recognized as a legally binding marriage when the required elements are present.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For couples with substantial assets, children, shared property, or business interests, waiting too long to address these issues can create significant legal and financial complications. A careful review of the facts, financial records, and relationship history can help determine whether an informal marriage existed and what rights may apply after separation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are asking whether you were common law married, or wondering what rights you have after separation, contact Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP to schedule a consultation. The BCS family law practice is led by veteran family law attorneys</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Leslie Bollier</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susannah Stinson</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, who are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ Tex. Fam. Code § 2.401.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">² Tex. Fam. Code § 3.003.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/common-law-marriage-in-austin-rights-upon-separation/">Common Law Marriage in Austin: Rights Upon Separation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Finding the Right Austin Contract Lawyer</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/finding-the-right-austin-contract-lawyer/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:39:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Construction, Real Estate & Business Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3705</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Tony Ciccone, Business, Construction, and Real Estate Law In a fast-growing market like Austin, contracts play a central role in nearly every business transaction, from startup partnerships to multimillion-dollar construction projects. Choosing the right Austin contract lawyer is not just a legal decision; it’s a strategic one that can directly impact your company’s risk,  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/finding-the-right-austin-contract-lawyer/">Finding the Right Austin Contract Lawyer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/tony-ciccone/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Tony Ciccone, Business, Construction, and Real Estate Law</span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a fast-growing market like Austin,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/drafting-and-negotiating-business-contracts-for-austin-companies/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">contracts</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> play a central role in nearly every business transaction, from startup partnerships to multimillion-dollar construction projects. Choosing the right </span><b>Austin contract lawyer</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is not just a legal decision; it’s a strategic one that can directly impact your company’s risk, profitability, and long-term success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether you are searching for a </span><b>contract lawyer</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a </span><b>breach of contract lawyer</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, or a </span><b>construction contract lawyer in Austin</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, this guide by the</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help you understand what to look for, so you can avoid costly mistakes and position your business for growth.</span></p>
<h2><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3708" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-300x199.png" alt="Pen on a contract signature line" width="528" height="350" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-400x265.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-600x398.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-768x509.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1-800x530.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-1.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 528px) 100vw, 528px" /></h2>
<h2><b>Why Hiring an Austin Contract Lawyer Matters</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contracts define the rights and obligations of parties in a business relationship. A poorly drafted agreement can expose your company to disputes, financial losses, or litigation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An experienced Austin contract lawyer provides critical services such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Drafting clear, enforceable agreements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reviewing contracts for hidden risks</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Negotiating favorable terms</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Litigating or resolving disputes when agreements break down</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas, some verbal agreements may be legally binding under certain circumstances, which adds complexity and risk if disputes arise.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Key Factors When Choosing the Right Contract Lawyer in Austin</b></h2>
<h3><b>Relevant Experience in Corporate and Construction Law</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not all contract lawyers are the same. Businesses in Central Texas often deal with:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commercial leases</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendor and supplier agreements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Construction contracts and subcontractor agreements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Partnership and shareholder agreements</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are in construction, for example, you need an Austin construction contract lawyer familiar with project timelines, change orders, and risk allocation. A general practitioner may miss industry-specific issues that could later lead to disputes.</span></p>
<p><b>What to look for:</b></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Experience in your specific industry</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Familiarity with Texas construction and business regulations</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Proven track record handling similar contracts</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Strong Contract Drafting and Review Skills</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The best legal disputes are the ones that never happen. A skilled Austin contract lawyer</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">focuses on prevention by drafting precise, comprehensive agreements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Key contract elements your attorney should carefully evaluate include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Performance obligations and deadlines</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Payment terms and penalties</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dispute resolution clauses (mediation, arbitration)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Force majeure provisions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Compliance with Texas law</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contracts that are vague or incomplete often lead to misunderstandings and litigation. Attention to detail is critical.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Negotiation Ability That Protects Your Interests</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contracts are not just legal documents; they are business tools. A strong attorney understands how to negotiate terms that align with your goals while maintaining workable relationships.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An experienced Austin contract lawyer can:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Identify unfavorable clauses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Propose strategic revisions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Balance risk and opportunity</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Effective negotiation can mean the difference between a profitable agreement and one that creates long-term liability.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Litigation and Dispute Resolution Experience</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even well-drafted contracts can lead to disputes. When that happens, you need an Austin Breach of Contract Lawyer who can enforce your rights.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Under Texas law, proving a breach of contract generally requires proof of:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">A valid contract</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Performance or tendered performance by the plaintiff</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Breach of the contract by the defendant</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Damages caused by the breach</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your attorney should be comfortable handling:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Demand letters and negotiations</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mediation and arbitration</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Courtroom litigation when necessary</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Importantly, many disputes can be resolved without litigation if your contract includes clear dispute resolution provisions.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Knowledge of Texas-Specific Contract Laws</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas contract law includes requirements that can affect enforceability. For example:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Certain agreements must be in writing and signed under the Texas statute of frauds, including many real estate contracts, leases longer than one year, and agreements that cannot be performed within one year.¹</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enforceable contracts generally require offer, acceptance, consideration, mutual assent, and sufficiently definite material terms.²</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different rules may apply depending on the type of contract involved, including construction agreements, real estate contracts, and contracts for the sale of goods.³</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An Austin-based attorney brings local insight into how courts and businesses operate in Central Texas—something out-of-state counsel may lack.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Reputation and Client Feedback</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reputation matters when selecting a </span><b>contract lawyer in Austin</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Consider:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/testimonials/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Client testimonials</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and reviews</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/bollier-ciccone-stinson-llp-attorneys-recognized-in-the-2025-super-lawyers-and-rising-stars-lists/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Peer recognition</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Referrals from other professionals</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A lawyer’s track record in handling negotiations and disputes can give you confidence in their ability to protect your interests.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3707" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-300x177.png" alt="gavel on a desk" width="551" height="325" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-200x118.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-300x177.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-400x236.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-600x354.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-768x453.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2-800x472.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-2.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 551px) 100vw, 551px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>Austin-Specific Considerations for Contract Law</b></h2>
<h3><b>A Rapidly Growing Business Environment</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s economy spans tech startups, real estate development, and construction projects. Each industry requires tailored contracts to address unique risks.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For example:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tech companies may need intellectual property protections</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Construction firms must address delays, materials, and subcontractor liability</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Real estate developers require detailed purchase and lease agreements</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Local lawyers are often more familiar with these nuances and can tailor contracts accordingly.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Construction Contracts in Central Texas</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Construction is one of the most contract-heavy industries in the Austin area. A qualified Austin construction contract lawyer can help with:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/negotiating-construction-contracts-in-austins-booming-market/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Drafting construction agreements</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Managing subcontractor relationships</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Addressing delays and cost overruns</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Advising on Texas mechanic’s lien, contractor’s lien, and materialman’s lien issues</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Without proper legal guidance,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/dispute-resolution-for-austin-construction-projects-pros-and-cons/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">construction disputes</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can escalate quickly and become expensive.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Common Contract Disputes in Austin</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Businesses frequently face disputes involving:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Non-payment</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Breach of service agreements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Missed deadlines</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Misinterpretation of contract terms</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Change-order disputes</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scope-of-work disagreements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Construction delays</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Defective-work claims</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Payment applications and retainage disputes</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commercial lease defaults</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Partnership or ownership disputes</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These disputes can disrupt operations and lead to significant financial harm if not handled effectively.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Red Flags When Choosing a Contract Lawyer</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not every attorney is the right fit. Watch for:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lack of specialization in contract or business law</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Limited experience in Texas law</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Over-reliance on generic templates instead of custom agreements</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contracts should not be treated as “one-size-fits-all.” Your lawyer should tailor each agreement to your specific business needs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3706" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-300x199.png" alt="lawyer and client shaking hands" width="549" height="364" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-400x265.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-600x398.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-768x509.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3-800x530.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Finding-the-Right-Austin-Contract-Lawyer-3.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 549px) 100vw, 549px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>How the Right Lawyer Adds Long-Term Value</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hiring the right Austin contract lawyer is an investment, not just a cost.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A skilled attorney can:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reduce the risk of future disputes </span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strengthen your negotiating position</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improve compliance with Texas law</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Protect your business from avoidable financial risk</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ultimately, contracts should support your growth, not hold you back.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Frequently Asked Questions</b></h2>
<h3><b>Do I really need an Austin contract lawyer for a small business?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes. Even small businesses rely heavily on contracts. A lawyer ensures your agreements are enforceable and protect your interests.</span></p>
<h3><b>What does an Austin breach of contract lawyer do?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">They help enforce your rights when another party fails to meet contractual obligations, including pursuing damages or negotiating settlements.</span></p>
<h3><b>How can a construction contract lawyer help in Austin?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">They draft and review agreements, manage risk allocation, and handle disputes specific to construction projects.</span></p>
<h3><b>Are verbal contracts enforceable in Texas?</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some cases, yes, but they are much harder to prove and enforce, making written agreements strongly recommended.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-2966" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-300x211.jpg" alt="Austin Construction, Real Estate, and Business Lawyer Tony Ciccone" width="516" height="363" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-200x140.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-300x211.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-400x281.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-600x421.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-768x539.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-800x562.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-1024x719.jpg 1024w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-1200x842.jpg 1200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2-1536x1078.jpg 1536w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HiRes-Tony-Ciccone-Team-Page-Headshot-2.jpg 1913w" sizes="(max-width: 516px) 100vw, 516px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Business with an Austin Contract Lawyer</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Choosing the right Austin contract lawyer can have a lasting impact on your business success. From drafting carefully tailored agreements to resolving complex disputes, the right legal partner helps you navigate risk while focusing on growth.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a competitive and fast-moving market like Austin, having experienced legal counsel can be a significant advantage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this article or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. To fully understand your rights and options,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/contact/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">contact</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> the experienced attorneys at</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for a consultation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our Business, Construction, and Real Estate Law practice is led by</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/attorney/tony-ciccone/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Tony Ciccone</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a veteran real estate, construction, and business law attorney who is not only Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, but also Martindale-Hubbell “AV Preeminent” rated.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ol>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">See Tex. Bus. &amp; Com. Code § 26.01(a), (b)(4)–(6).</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">See Angel v. Tauch, 642 S.W.3d 481 (Tex. 2022); Fischer v. CTMI, L.L.C., 479 S.W.3d 231 (Tex. 2016).</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">See Tex. Bus. &amp; Com. Code §§ 2.102, 2.204.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Lakeway, Steiner Ranch, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span></i><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/finding-the-right-austin-contract-lawyer/">Finding the Right Austin Contract Lawyer</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Commercial Lease Agreements in Austin: Essential Clauses</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/commercial-lease-agreements-in-austin-essential-clauses/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 03:23:28 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Law]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3710</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Tony Ciccone, Real Estate Law In a fast-growing market like Austin, commercial lease agreements are rarely routine. In many cases, commercial leases are heavily landlord-drafted and should be carefully reviewed before signing. For business owners, a thorough Austin commercial lease review can be one of the most important investments you make before committing to  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/commercial-lease-agreements-in-austin-essential-clauses/">Commercial Lease Agreements in Austin: Essential Clauses</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/tony-ciccone/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Tony Ciccone, Real Estate Law</span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a fast-growing market like Austin, commercial lease agreements are rarely routine. In many cases, commercial leases are heavily landlord-drafted and should be carefully reviewed before signing.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For business owners, a thorough Austin commercial lease review can be one of the most important investments you make before committing to a space. From rent escalation clauses to common area maintenance (CAM) charges and build-out obligations, each provision can significantly impact your long-term financial obligations and operational flexibility.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this guide, the</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/real-estate-law/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Real Estate Law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> breaks down the essential clauses in a commercial lease and explains how </span><b>Texas commercial lease negotiation</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> strategies can protect your business.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3712" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-300x199.png" alt="storefront with &quot;for lease&quot; sign" width="476" height="316" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-600x399.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-768x511.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2-800x532.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-2.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><b>Why Commercial Lease Review Matters in Austin</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/how-to-buy-commercial-property-in-austin-tx-legal-zoning-due-diligence-guide/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">commercial real estate market</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is highly competitive, driven by rapid population growth, tech expansion, and limited inventory in prime areas. This means:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Landlords often have leverage in negotiations</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lease terms may be complex and customized</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Small details can translate into significant long-term costs</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Because commercial lease terms in Texas are often heavily customized and landlord-drafted, each agreement should be carefully analyzed before signing.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas commercial tenancies are addressed in part by Chapter 93 of the Texas Property Code, but many key rights and obligations are defined by the terms of the lease itself.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">1</span></p>
<h2><b>Key Clauses in Austin Commercial Lease Agreements</b></h2>
<h3><b>Rent and Rent Escalation Clauses</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At first glance, base rent may seem straightforward—but the real cost of your lease is often hidden in </span><b>rent escalation provisions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A rent escalation clause defines how and when rent increases over time, typically annually.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Common types include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Fixed increases</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (e.g., 3% annually)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>CPI-based adjustments</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> tied to inflation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Operating cost pass-throughs</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (utilities, maintenance, taxes)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Market rate resets</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> at renewal</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These clauses exist because landlords must keep pace with inflation and rising property costs.</span></p>
<p><b>Austin Insight:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> In high-growth areas like downtown Austin and The Domain, even small annual increases can compound significantly over a 5–10 year lease term. Modeling total rent—not just year one—is critical.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Common Area Maintenance (CAM) Charges</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">CAM charges are one of the most misunderstood—and frequently disputed—components of a commercial lease.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These fees typically cover:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Landscaping and exterior maintenance</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Parking lot upkeep</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Security</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shared utilities</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In many Texas leases, tenants pay a </span><b>pro rata share</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of these costs.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas commercial leases, additional charges are best addressed expressly in the lease, including the amount charged or the method used to calculate it.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">2</span></p>
<p><b>Key Issues to Watch:</b></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">What expenses are included (and excluded)?</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Are there caps on annual increases?</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is there a clear audit right for tenants?</span></li>
</ul>
<p><b>Austin Tip:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Retail tenants in mixed-use developments (common in Central Austin) often face higher CAM costs due to shared amenities. Negotiating caps or exclusions is essential.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Build-Out and Tenant Improvement Clauses</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s commercial spaces—especially in newer developments—often require customization. That’s where </span><b>build-out provisions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> come in.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These clauses address:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Who pays for improvements (landlord vs. tenant)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tenant improvement (TI) allowances</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Approval processes for</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/negotiating-construction-contracts-in-austins-booming-market/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">construction</span></a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ownership of improvements at lease end</span></li>
</ul>
<p><b>Key Risk:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Without clear language, tenants may be responsible for costly upgrades or required to remove improvements upon termination.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3711" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-300x198.png" alt="Commercial lease contract" width="458" height="302" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-300x198.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-400x264.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-600x396.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-768x507.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-800x529.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 458px) 100vw, 458px" /></span></p>
<h3><b>Lease Type: Gross vs. Net Leases</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding your lease structure is critical to forecasting costs.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Gross Lease:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Rent includes most operating expenses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Net Lease (NNN):</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Tenant pays base rent + taxes + insurance + maintenance</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even in gross leases, tenants may still pay increases above a baseline (“expense stops”).</span></p>
<p><b>Austin Market Reality:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Triple net (NNN) leases are common in retail and suburban office spaces, meaning tenants must carefully review all pass-through expenses.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Assignment and Subletting</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Businesses evolve—and your lease should allow flexibility.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Assignment and subletting clauses govern whether you can:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Transfer the lease to another business</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sublease part or all of your space</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas landlords often impose strict restrictions on these rights.</span></p>
<p><b>Negotiation Tip:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Seek reasonable consent standards (e.g., landlord cannot “unreasonably withhold” approval).</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Use Clauses and Exclusivity</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your lease will define how the space can be used. This may include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Specific permitted uses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Restrictions on competing businesses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Exclusive rights in shopping centers</span></li>
</ul>
<p><b>Austin Example:</b><b><br />
</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> In retail-heavy areas like South Congress or East Austin, exclusivity clauses can protect your business from direct competitors in the same development.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h3><b>Casualty and Condemnation</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">How is the lease affected in the event of a catastrophe? Critical focus points include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;">       </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rent abatement</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;">       </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Termination rights</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;">       </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Allocation of proceeds</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Well-drafted clauses can balance protection for tenants and property owners in the case of fires, flooding, and eminent domain actions.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"></p>
<p></span></p>
<h3><b>Renewal and Termination Options</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Long-term flexibility is critical in a rapidly changing market.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Key provisions include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Renewal options and rent adjustments</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Early termination rights</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Personal guarantees</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Renewal clauses often tie rent to </span><b>fair market value</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which can lead to significant increases if not capped.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone  wp-image-3713" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-300x199.png" alt="hand shake for commercial lease deal" width="421" height="279" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-400x265.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-600x398.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-768x509.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3-800x530.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Commercial-Lease-Agreements-in-Austin-Essential-Clauses-3.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 421px) 100vw, 421px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>Austin-Specific Considerations</b></h2>
<h3><b>Rapid Market Growth</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s expanding economy can drive:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Higher rent escalation rates</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Competitive lease terms</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Limited negotiation leverage in prime areas</span></li>
</ul>
<h3><b>Mixed-Use Developments</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Popular developments combine residential, retail, and office space, often leading to:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Complex CAM structures</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shared infrastructure costs</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unique use restrictions</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some mixed-use or condo-style commercial properties, tenants may also need to account for property owners’ association rules or shared-governance restrictions that can affect signage, operations, maintenance obligations, or common area use.</span></p>
<h3><b>Local Regulations and Zoning</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Zoning rules and city ordinances can impact:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Permitted uses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Build-out approvals</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Signage and visibility</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">  </span></p>
<h2><b>Why Work with an Austin Commercial Lease Attorney?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A professional legal team provides:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Comprehensive Austin commercial lease review</b></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Identification of hidden costs and risks</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strategic </span><b>Texas commercial lease negotiation</b></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Customized protections for your business</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Because leases are often drafted in favor of landlords, legal review helps rebalance the agreement and avoid costly surprises.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2752" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-300x238.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="238" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-200x159.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-300x238.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-400x318.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-600x477.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-768x610.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-800x635.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-1024x813.jpg 1024w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84-1200x953.jpg 1200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-2_BCS-Law-Board-Certification-AV-Pre-Eminent-Ranking-84.jpg 1420w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commercial lease agreements in Austin are complex, highly negotiable, and deeply consequential for your business.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Key takeaways:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Always review rent escalation and CAM provisions carefully</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understand your total occupancy cost—not just base rent</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Negotiate flexibility through assignment, renewal, and termination clauses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Address build-out responsibilities upfront</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Seek legal guidance before signing</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A well-negotiated lease is not just a contract—it’s a strategic asset that supports your business’s long-term success.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This guide offers a foundational overview — not legal advice. To fully understand your rights and options,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/contact/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">contact</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> the experienced attorneys at</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for a consultation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Our Real Estate Law practice is led by</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/attorney/tony-ciccone/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Tony Ciccone</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a veteran real estate, construction, and business law attorney who is not only Board Certified in Construction Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, but also rated “AV Preeminent” by Martindale-Hubbell.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;">See Tex. Prop. Code ch. 93.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;">See Tex. Prop. Code § 93.012.</span></li>
</ol>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />
</span></i> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/commercial-lease-agreements-in-austin-essential-clauses/">Commercial Lease Agreements in Austin: Essential Clauses</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Divorce and Business Valuation in Texas: What Austin Business Owners Need to Know</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-business-valuation-in-texas-what-austin-business-owners-need-to-know/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 15:08:01 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3687</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney When a marriage involves a company, partnership interest, professional practice, or closely held business, divorce can become far more complex than a typical property division case. In Texas, the court does not simply ask who founded the business or whose name appears on the formation documents.  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-business-valuation-in-texas-what-austin-business-owners-need-to-know/">Divorce and Business Valuation in Texas: What Austin Business Owners Need to Know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><b>By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney</b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When a marriage involves a</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/protecting-your-austin-business-in-a-high-net-worth-divorce/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">company, partnership interest, professional practice, or closely held business</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, divorce can become far more complex than a typical property division case. In Texas, the court does not simply ask who founded the business or whose name appears on the formation documents. Instead, the legal analysis often focuses on whether all or part of the business interest is community property, whether any portion is separate property, what the business is worth, and whether one marital estate has claims against another.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3688" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-300x199.jpg" alt="Graphs and a calculator " width="422" height="280" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-200x133.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-300x199.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-400x265.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-600x398.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-768x509.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-800x530.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos.jpg 940w" sizes="(max-width: 422px) 100vw, 422px" /></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For many spouses in Austin and Central Texas, the business is the most valuable asset in the marital estate. It may also be the primary source of family income, a legacy built over many years, or an enterprise that includes complicated books, distributions, retained earnings, goodwill questions, and tax-sensitive planning issues. That is why divorce and business valuation often require a coordinated approach involving</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/complex-property-division-valuation/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">family law counsel</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, business counsel, forensic accountants, and valuation professionals. Texas law provides the framework, but the facts and the quality of the financial evidence often drive the outcome.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas, a business in divorce may be treated as community property, separate property, or a mix of both, depending on when and how the ownership interest was acquired and how the business was managed during the marriage. Before a court can divide or offset that interest, the parties often need to address characterization, reimbursement issues, and a defensible business valuation. This guide from the </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> walks through the core legal and financial issues involved.</span></p>
<h2><b>Why Business Valuation Matters in Texas Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In a Texas divorce, a court must divide the parties’ marital estate in a manner the court considers</span><a href="https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docviewer?docPath=%2FFA%2Fhtm%2FFA.7.htm%237.009"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">“just and right,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> while respecting the rights of each spouse and any children of the marriage.¹ Texas is a community property state, but that does not mean every asset is split 50/50. The court’s task is an equitable division of the community estate under the statute.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That principle becomes especially important when the marital estate includes business assets. A closely held company cannot usually be divided the way a bank account can. One spouse may continue operating the company after divorce, while the other may seek an offset through other property, a structured buyout, or another negotiated solution. Before any of that can happen, the parties and the court need a reliable valuation. That is a central component of divorce and business valuation: identifying the business interest, characterizing it correctly, and determining its value using defensible methods.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3146" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-300x200.jpg" alt="White House With Golden Coin Stacks couple And Gavel" width="467" height="311" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-200x133.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-400x267.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-600x400.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-768x512.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366-800x534.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/shutterstock_1995461366.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 467px) 100vw, 467px" /></p>
<h2><b>The First Question in Texas Divorce: Is the Business Community Property or Separate Property?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas law starts with a strong presumption: property possessed by either spouse during or at the dissolution of marriage is presumed to be</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-texas-a-community-property-state/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">community property</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.² A spouse claiming an asset as separate property must prove that claim by clear and convincing evidence. Separate property generally includes property owned before marriage, property acquired during marriage by gift or inheritance, and certain personal injury recoveries.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Applied to divorce and business ownership, that means the analysis is rarely as simple as “I started the company before we got married.” A business formed before marriage may still have a separate property component, but growth during the marriage can raise additional issues. Community funds may have been invested into the business. A spouse may have contributed substantial time, toil, talent, or effort to enhance the value of a separately owned business beyond what was reasonably necessary to manage and preserve it, without adequate compensation to the community estate. In some cases, that may support a reimbursement claim under the Texas Family Code.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas business entity law also recognizes that an ownership interest itself may be community property under applicable law. That distinction can matter when the divorce involves an LLC, partnership, or family-owned operating company.</span></p>
<h2><b>Why Valuation Experts are Often Essential in High-Asset Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/austin-high-asset-divorce-attorneys/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">high-asset divorce</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> cases, valuation disputes are common because a business’s value is not always obvious from a tax return or a balance sheet. In practice, formal valuations and forensic analysis of a closely held company or partnership during divorce are often invasive, time-consuming, and expensive. That is often the reality in these cases. Many privately held businesses do not have a ready market price, and their records may not fully capture normalized earnings, owner benefits, contingent liabilities, or the effect of market conditions.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A qualified valuation expert may analyze items such as historical financial statements, tax returns, compensation practices, discretionary expenses, debt structure, cash flow, customer concentration, and whether the business depends heavily on one owner’s personal services. In the right case, a forensic accountant may also help trace separate and community contributions, investigate unusual transfers, test the reliability of reported income, and identify whether personal expenses were paid through the business. These issues often overlap with divorce and business assets, particularly where</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">one spouse suspects underreported income</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or an understated company value.</span></p>
<h2><b>Key Legal Issues that Often Affect Business Value</b></h2>
<h3><b>1. Characterization of the Ownership Interest</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A court must first determine whether the ownership interest is separate property, community property, or mixed in character. The inception-of-title rule and tracing evidence often matter here. If the business began before marriage, the original interest may be separate, but later acquired interests, capital contributions, or marital labor issues can still create claims that affect the overall division.</span></p>
<h3><b>2. Reimbursement Claims</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Family Code Section 3.402 recognizes reimbursement claims between marital estates in certain circumstances. One notable example can arise when a spouse’s time, </span><a href="https://texas.public.law/statutes/tex._fam._code_section_3.402"><span style="font-weight: 400;">toil, talent, or effort</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is used to enhance the value of a separately owned business beyond what is reasonably necessary to manage and preserve it, without adequate compensation to the community estate. In practical terms, this may happen where a spouse leaves significant profits in the company, takes below-market compensation, or uses community effort to enhance a separate property business without fairly compensating the community estate.</span></p>
<h3><b>3. Goodwill and Earning Capacity Questions</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Business valuation in divorce may involve disputes over enterprise value versus value tied more directly to an owner’s future personal earning capacity. In professional practices and owner-driven companies, that distinction can materially affect value. Because these issues are heavily fact dependent and often expert driven, the strength of the valuation report and testimony matters.</span></p>
<h3><b>4. Control, Marketability, and Liquidity</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A minority interest in a closely held business may not carry the same value as full control of the company. Likewise, a private business may not be easily sold. Those realities can influence valuation methodology and settlement structure, especially where an Austin-area company is locally operated and intended to remain with one spouse after divorce.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-2825" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="410" height="273" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-200x133.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-300x200.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-400x266.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-600x399.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-768x511.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-800x532.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-1200x799.jpg 1200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/IMAGE-5_BCS-LAW_Modifications-Enforcements_2329441761-1536x1022.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px" /></p>
<h2><b>Austin and Central Texas Considerations</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s economy includes founder-led startups, professional practices, family real estate companies, construction businesses, medical groups, consulting firms, and closely held service businesses. In these cases, business value may be tied not only to hard assets, but also to recurring contracts, intellectual property, management depth, and regional market conditions. A valuation that overlooks those factors can distort the true picture. This is one reason why divorce and business valuation in Central Texas often requires professionals who understand both Texas family law and the financial realities of local businesses. </span></p>
<h2><b>Common Mistakes Business Owners and Spouses Should Avoid</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the biggest mistakes is assuming the business can be valued from a single tax return. Another is treating formation date as the end of the characterization inquiry. A third is waiting too long to collect records, trace ownership history, or retain the right expert. In divorce and business ownership disputes, incomplete financial evidence can make settlement harder and trial riskier. Where the business supports the household, errors in valuation can also affect related issues such as support, cash flow planning, and post-divorce financial stability.</span></p>
<h2><b>A Practical Legal Strategy for Business Owners Facing Divorce in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In our experience, the most effective approach is usually disciplined and evidence-driven. That usually means identifying all ownership documents, formation records, tax returns, compensation records, partnership or operating agreements, buy-sell terms, debt records, and major financial statements early. It also means evaluating whether separate property tracing is available, whether reimbursement issues exist, and whether a neutral or party-retained valuation expert is appropriate. Texas law supplies the rules, but credible documentation and expert analysis often shape the result in cases involving divorce and business assets.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3665" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png" alt="Leslie Bollier and Susannah Stinson, Austin Family Law" width="404" height="373" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-200x185.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-400x369.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-600x554.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-768x709.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-800x738.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3.png 854w" sizes="(max-width: 404px) 100vw, 404px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Divorce and Business Valuation in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Divorce and business valuation can be one of the more complex and fact-intensive aspects of Texas divorce law. When a marriage includes a company, partnership, practice, or other closely held business, the stakes are often high for both spouses. The court may need to address characterization, tracing, reimbursement, expert valuation, and a just-and-right division of the community estate. For Austin families with substantial business interests, careful legal and financial analysis is often critical to protecting both ownership rights and long-term financial security.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This guide is only meant to give you a foundational understanding of what to expect during the divorce and business valuation process, not to offer legal advice. To understand the full scope of your potential case, you need an experienced attorney. If your divorce involves a business, partnership interest, professional practice, or other closely held company, contact the experienced BCS family law team for a consultation. In cases involving business ownership, that can be especially valuable because BCS also has an experienced </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/business-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">business law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to help clients navigate entity documents, ownership structures, and other issues that often overlap with family law.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP’s family law team is uniquely experienced in understanding the process of asset disclosure and valuation, and how to safeguard your interests in those assets. The BCS family law practice is led by veteran Family Law attorneys</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Leslie Bollier</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and</span> <a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susannah Stinson</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> who are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> See Tex. Fam. Code § 7.001.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> See Tex. Fam. Code § 3.003(a)-(b).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> See Tex. Bus. Orgs. Code § 101.106(a-1), (a-2).</span></li>
</ol>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-business-valuation-in-texas-what-austin-business-owners-need-to-know/">Divorce and Business Valuation in Texas: What Austin Business Owners Need to Know</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Navigating the Complexities of a High-Asset Divorce in Austin, Texas</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-a-high-asset-divorce-in-austin-texas/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 15 Mar 2026 23:49:10 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3664</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Leslie J. Bollier, Board Certified in Family Law Divorce can be emotionally and financially challenging under any circumstances. However, when significant wealth and complex financial holdings are involved, the stakes increase dramatically. High-asset divorces in Texas require careful legal strategy, financial analysis, and an experienced team capable of managing sophisticated property portfolios. At BCS  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-a-high-asset-divorce-in-austin-texas/">Navigating the Complexities of a High-Asset Divorce in Austin, Texas</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Leslie J. Bollier, Board Certified in Family Law</span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Divorce can be emotionally and financially challenging under any circumstances. However, when significant wealth and complex financial holdings are involved, the stakes increase dramatically.</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/austin-high-asset-divorce-attorneys/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">High-asset divorces in Texas require careful legal strategy</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, financial analysis, and an experienced team capable of managing sophisticated property portfolios.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> in Austin, Texas, we frequently work with entrepreneurs, executives, investors, physicians, and other individuals with substantial or complex assets as they work to protect their financial futures during divorce. These cases often involve multiple </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/real-estate-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">real estate</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> holdings, investment portfolios, business ownership interests, and high-income structures that require careful legal and financial analysis.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Below, we explain what makes a high-asset divorce unique and how an experienced Austin </span><b>high-asset divorce attorney</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help navigate complex property division issues.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>What Is a High-Asset Divorce?</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A high-asset divorce generally involves a substantial marital estate, often including seven-figure assets, or property that is unusually complex to identify, value, or divide. These may include businesses, investment portfolios, intellectual property, or multiple real estate holdings.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Common assets involved in high-net-worth divorces include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Primary residences and vacation homes</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commercial real estate and rental portfolios</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stocks, stock options, and investment funds</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Business ownership or partnership interests</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Retirement accounts and pensions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Art, collectibles, luxury vehicles, and jewelry</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Trusts or inherited assets</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Because these assets can fluctuate in value and may involve complicated ownership structures, proper valuation and classification are critical to ensuring an equitable outcome.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3667" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-300x169.png" alt="Hight-Asset Division in Divorce in Austin Texas" width="488" height="275" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-200x112.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-300x169.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-400x225.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-600x337.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-768x431.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4-800x449.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-4.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 488px) 100vw, 488px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>Texas Community Property Laws and High-Asset Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas is a</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-texas-a-community-property-state/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">community property state</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which means property acquired during the marriage is generally presumed to be community property. However, Texas courts do not automatically divide community property equally. Instead, courts divide community property in a manner that is “just and right”</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">based on the circumstances of the case.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This distinction becomes especially important in high-asset divorces. Judges may consider factors such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Differences in earning capacity between spouses</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Who managed or contributed to the growth of assets</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fault in the breakup of the marriage, where relevant</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Future financial needs of each spouse</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Disparity in education or earning power</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Additionally, property owned before the marriage, inherited assets, and gifts are typically considered </span><b>separate property</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, though proving this classification often requires extensive documentation and financial tracing</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">.²</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Identifying Complex Assets in a High-Net-Worth Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the most challenging aspects of high-asset divorce is </span><b>identifying the full scope of marital assets</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Wealthy couples often hold assets across multiple accounts,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/protecting-your-austin-business-in-a-high-net-worth-divorce/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">business entities</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and investment structures.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An experienced </span><b>Austin high-asset divorce attorney</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> typically begins by conducting a comprehensive financial review, which may involve:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reviewing tax returns and financial statements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Identifying corporate ownership structures</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Examining investment and brokerage accounts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Analyzing real estate holdings and equity</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investigating trusts, layered entity structures, or assets held through multiple entities</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Accurate asset identification promotes transparency and reduces the risk that critical assets are overlooked during property division.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>The Role of Forensic Accounting in High-Asset Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In many high-net-worth divorces, forensic accountants play a crucial role. These financial professionals analyze financial records to uncover hidden assets, trace financial transactions, and determine the true value of complex holdings.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Forensic accountants may:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Analyze tax filings and corporate records</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Trace the origin of funds used to purchase assets</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Identify unusual transfers or undisclosed accounts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Assess business income and cash flow</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Their work ensures that all assets are properly disclosed and categorized, which is essential for a fair division of property.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This level of financial scrutiny is particularly important when spouses suspect that </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">hidden assets are being concealed</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> through shell companies, trusts, or international accounts.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3666" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-300x198.png" alt="Forensic Accounting for High Asset Divorce" width="426" height="281" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-300x198.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-400x264.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-600x396.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-768x507.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5-800x529.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-5.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 426px) 100vw, 426px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>Valuation Experts and Appraisers</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another key component of a high-asset divorce is</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/complex-property-division-valuation/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">accurate asset valuation</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Many valuable assets, such as businesses or commercial real estate, do not have straightforward market values.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In these cases, attorneys often collaborate with valuation professionals such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Business valuation experts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Certified public accountants (CPAs)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Real estate appraisers</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment analysts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Pension and retirement specialists</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These experts provide objective assessments of assets including privately held companies, stock options, intellectual property, and large real estate portfolios.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Proper valuation matters because even modest differences in estimated value can materially affect the outcome of property division.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Dividing Real Estate and Non-Liquid Assets</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin’s booming real estate market means that many high-net-worth couples hold significant property assets. These may include:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Luxury primary residences</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment properties</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Commercial real estate</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Land or development projects</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlike cash assets,</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-real-estate-benefits-of-having-a-divorce-and-real-estate-attorney/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">real estate</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is </span><b>non-liquid</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, meaning it cannot easily be divided. Courts and attorneys often use strategies such as:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Property buyouts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Selling assets and dividing proceeds</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Structured property settlements</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some cases, one spouse may retain property while compensating the other with investment accounts or other assets of comparable value.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><b>Why BCS’s In-House Family Law, Real Estate, and Business Team Matters</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When a high-asset divorce involves homes, investment properties, commercial real estate, or other non-liquid assets, having family law and real estate attorneys in-house can provide meaningful advantages. At Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP, our family law, business, and real estate lawyers work under one roof, which allows for more coordinated analysis of property characterization, title issues, refinancing requirements, deed preparation, and transfer logistics. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When a marital estate also includes closely held businesses or partnership interests, coordination with the firm’s business law team may also be beneficial. This integrated approach can help reduce delays, avoid inconsistencies, and better position clients when real estate is a significant part of the marital estate.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An in-house team can help with:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Coordinating property division strategy with real estate transfer requirements</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Evaluating title, deed, and refinancing issues early in the process</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reducing the need to bring in outside real estate counsel</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Helping structure property-related provisions to avoid post-divorce complications</span></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><b>Handling Stocks, Investments, and Executive Compensation</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Executives and business owners frequently receive compensation through stock options, restricted shares, or deferred bonuses. These assets can complicate divorce settlements because their value may fluctuate or vest over time.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In high-asset divorce cases, attorneys must evaluate:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stock option vesting schedules</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Restricted stock units (RSUs)</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Retirement plans and pensions</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Deferred compensation packages</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some cases, specialized orders such as Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) may be necessary to divide certain retirement accounts properly and help avoid unnecessary tax consequences.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3275" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-300x199.png" alt="Navigating Divorce with Children in Travis County Courts" width="415" height="275" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-400x265.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-600x397.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-768x508.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3-800x529.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/3.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 415px) 100vw, 415px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>High Income, Child Support, Spousal Maintenance, and Alimony</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">High-net-worth divorces may also raise complex issues involving </span><b>child support </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">and, in some cases,</span><b> spousal maintenance.</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Texas law provides statutory frameworks for these issues, but higher-income households often require </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/calculating-austin-child-support-beyond-the-guidelines/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">closer analysis </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">of income sources, compensation structures, and lifestyle considerations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Financial experts may analyze:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">True income from business ownership</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment earnings and dividends</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lifestyle expenses during the marriage</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Future earning capacity</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Accurate financial analysis helps ensure that support arrangements are just and right, and reflect the couple’s actual financial circumstances.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spousal maintenance is sometimes referred to as alimony, though in Texas ‘spousal maintenance’ is the legal term for court-ordered support, while ‘alimony’ often refers to contractual agreements between spouses.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Protecting Separate Property and Premarital Assets</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many high-net-worth individuals enter marriage with substantial assets already in place, such as business interests or investment portfolios. Protecting these assets during divorce requires careful tracing to prove they were acquired before the marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Complications arise when </span><b>separate property becomes commingled</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> with marital funds—for example, when business income or investments are reinvested during the marriage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In these cases, forensic accountants and legal teams may reconstruct financial histories to demonstrate which portions of an asset remain separate property.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Why Experience Matters in High-Asset Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">High-net-worth divorce cases involve financial and legal complexities that extend far beyond typical divorce proceedings. Without experienced representation, mistakes in asset classification or valuation can result in substantial financial loss.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An experienced Austin</span><b> high-asset divorce attorney</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or legal team can provide:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Strategic financial investigation</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Collaboration with valuation experts</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Protection of separate property claims</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sophisticated negotiation and litigation strategies</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These cases require both legal knowledge and financial sophistication to achieve an equitable outcome.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3665" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png" alt="Leslie Bollier and Susannah Stinson, Austin Family Law" width="384" height="355" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-200x185.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-300x277.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-400x369.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-600x554.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-768x709.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3-800x738.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BCS-LAW-Blog-Photos-3.png 854w" sizes="(max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: High-Asset Divorce in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Divorce involving substantial wealth is rarely straightforward. Complex financial portfolios, real estate holdings, and business interests require careful evaluation to ensure a fair and legally sound division of property.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Working with an experienced </span><b>Austin high-asset divorce attorney</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> allows high-net-worth individuals to navigate the process with confidence. With experienced legal guidance and appropriate financial analysis, parties can make more informed decisions about property division and long-term financial planning.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are considering divorce and have significant assets, seeking experienced legal guidance early in the process can make a critical difference in the outcome.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At every step, the</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/complex-property-division-valuation/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS family law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> team stands ready to help you protect your financial interests and pursue a fair outcome in your divorce.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP’s family law team is highly experienced in understanding the process of asset disclosure and valuation, and how to safeguard your interests in those assets. The BCS family law practice is led by veteran attorneys </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Leslie Bollier </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">and </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susannah Stinson</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> who are Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ Tex. Fam. Code § 7.001.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">² Tex. Fam. Code §§ 3.001, 3.003.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-a-high-asset-divorce-in-austin-texas/">Navigating the Complexities of a High-Asset Divorce in Austin, Texas</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Taco de Mayo: A High-Stakes Cookoff for a Meaningful Cause</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/taco-de-mayo-a-high-stakes-cookoff-for-a-meaningful-cause/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Victoria Pollock]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:20:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3622</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP will transform its lawn into something a little different, a taco arena. Taco de Mayo brings together Central Texas civil law firms for a friendly, and likely fiercely contested, taco cook-off, all in support of Volunteer Legal Services of  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/taco-de-mayo-a-high-stakes-cookoff-for-a-meaningful-cause/">Taco de Mayo: A High-Stakes Cookoff for a Meaningful Cause</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling" style="--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;" ><div class="fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-center fusion-flex-content-wrap" style="max-width:1248px;margin-left: calc(-4% / 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% / 2 );"><div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" 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);margin-right: calc(-4% / 2 );"><div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-0 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column fusion-flex-align-self-center" style="--awb-padding-bottom-small:31px;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:25%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:7.68%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:7.68%;--awb-width-medium:25%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:7.68%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:7.68%;--awb-width-small:50%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:3.84%;--awb-spacing-left-small:3.84%;"><div class="fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-center fusion-content-layout-column"><div class="fusion-image-element" style="--awb-max-width:200px;--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);"><span class=" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-1 hover-type-none"><img decoding="async" width="1042" height="1042" alt="Taco de Mayo Logo" title="Taco de Mayo BCS Law Event Austin" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Taco-de-Mayo-BCS-Law-Event-Austin.webp" class="img-responsive wp-image-3558" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Taco-de-Mayo-BCS-Law-Event-Austin-200x200.webp 200w, 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style="--awb-padding-bottom-small:18px;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:25%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:7.68%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:7.68%;--awb-width-medium:25%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:7.68%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:7.68%;--awb-width-small:50%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:3.84%;--awb-spacing-left-small:3.84%;"><div class="fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column"><div class="fusion-image-element" style="--awb-max-width:200px;--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);"><span class=" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-2 hover-type-none"><img decoding="async" width="537" height="312" title="Bollier Ciccone Stinson Austin Texas Law Firm" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/01_BCS-Logo_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson_Austin-Texas-Law-Firm.png" alt class="img-responsive wp-image-2399" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/01_BCS-Logo_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson_Austin-Texas-Law-Firm-200x116.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/01_BCS-Logo_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson_Austin-Texas-Law-Firm-400x232.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/01_BCS-Logo_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson_Austin-Texas-Law-Firm.png 537w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 400px" /></span></div></div></div><div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-2 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:25%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:7.68%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:7.68%;--awb-width-medium:25%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:7.68%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:7.68%;--awb-width-small:50%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:3.84%;--awb-spacing-left-small:3.84%;"><div class="fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column"><div class="fusion-image-element" style="--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);"><span class=" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-3 hover-type-none"><img decoding="async" width="1800" height="501" title="VLS_RGB" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB.png" alt class="img-responsive wp-image-3542" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB-200x56.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB-400x111.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB-600x167.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB-800x223.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB-1200x334.png 1200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/VLS_RGB.png 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 400px" /></span></div></div></div><div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column_inner fusion-builder-nested-column-3 fusion_builder_column_inner_1_4 1_4 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:25%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:7.68%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:7.68%;--awb-width-medium:25%;--awb-order-medium:0;--awb-spacing-right-medium:7.68%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:7.68%;--awb-width-small:50%;--awb-order-small:0;--awb-spacing-right-small:3.84%;--awb-spacing-left-small:3.84%;"><div class="fusion-column-wrapper fusion-column-has-shadow fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column"><div class="fusion-image-element" style="--awb-caption-title-font-family:var(--h2_typography-font-family);--awb-caption-title-font-weight:var(--h2_typography-font-weight);--awb-caption-title-font-style:var(--h2_typography-font-style);--awb-caption-title-size:var(--h2_typography-font-size);--awb-caption-title-transform:var(--h2_typography-text-transform);--awb-caption-title-line-height:var(--h2_typography-line-height);--awb-caption-title-letter-spacing:var(--h2_typography-letter-spacing);"><span class=" fusion-imageframe imageframe-none imageframe-4 hover-type-none"><img decoding="async" width="508" height="81" title="Amini &#038; Conant Logo" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Amini-Conant-Logo.png" alt class="img-responsive wp-image-3583" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Amini-Conant-Logo-200x32.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Amini-Conant-Logo-400x64.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Amini-Conant-Logo.png 508w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 400px" /></span></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-1 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column" style="--awb-bg-blend:overlay;--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;"><div class="fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column"><div class="fusion-text fusion-text-1"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On Saturday, May 2, 2026, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP will transform its lawn into something a little different, a taco arena.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://bclawtx.com/taco-de-mayo/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Taco de Mayo</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> brings together Central Texas civil law firms for a friendly, and likely fiercely contested, taco cook-off, all in support of </span><a href="https://www.vlsoct.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. For one afternoon, briefs give way to barbacoa, and courtroom strategy is replaced by culinary creativity.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This event is about more than bragging rights, though those are certainly on the line.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Guests can expect creative tacos from competing firms, a panel of judges deliberating with utmost seriousness, and a spirited afternoon of community connection. Awards will be presented, bragging rights secured, and meaningful support generated for access to justice in Central Texas.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This fundraiser is hosted by the civil law teams at Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP and Amini &amp; Conant. Proceeds support Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas, which provides free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals and families throughout the community. Funds raised at Taco de Mayo help expand access to justice for those who need it most.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are proud to bring the legal community together in a way that is competitive, collaborative, and committed to making a difference.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Join us as a competitor, judge, sponsor, or attendee, for an event that proves serious lawyers can take their tacos seriously, too.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">How To Participate: </span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Competing Firm?</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enter your civil law firm into the Taco de Mayo cook-off and compete for taco supremacy while supporting access to justice.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://forms.monday.com/forms/f12d8c51c894eb4a3650b0cd34efe1b2?r=use1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Register Your Team</span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Interested in Judging?</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Serve as an official taco judge (open only to sitting or former judicial judges) and help select this year’s taco champion while supporting a meaningful cause. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://forms.monday.com/forms/1966962e50d1882f378bc3d9526d3bbe?r=use1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Volunteer as a Judge</span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Ready to Sponsor?</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Support Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas and demonstrate your firm’s commitment to the legal community.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://forms.monday.com/forms/fffd0ebbb17da1d7ae74cb9d64cb84a0?r=use1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Become a Sponsor</span></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Event Details</span></h3>
<p><b>Saturday, May 2, 2026</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">11:00 a.m., Event begins</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">12:00 p.m., Judges arrive</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">12:30 p.m., Official judging begins</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Approximately 1:30 p.m., Awards announced</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Location</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">:</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP (The Lawn)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">1101 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Building G, Suite 200</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Austin, Texas 78746</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Taco Judges</span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Daniella Lyttle</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Darlene Byrne</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Todd Wong</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Jan Soifer</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Leonard Saenz</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Karin Crump</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Maggie Ellis</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hon. Brandy Mueller</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Competing Law Firms</span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Amini &amp; Conant</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Maples Jones</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Butler Snow</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Roarty Law</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sponsors</span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Andrew Myers</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sandoval &amp; James</span></p>
<p><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></p>
</div></div></div></div></div>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/taco-de-mayo-a-high-stakes-cookoff-for-a-meaningful-cause/">Taco de Mayo: A High-Stakes Cookoff for a Meaningful Cause</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets? A Texas Divorce and Property Guide</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:09:53 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3597</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney   Why Hidden Assets Matter in Texas Divorce Going through a divorce is emotionally stressful, especially when you suspect your spouse is hiding assets to avoid fair division. Hiding assets in divorce not only jeopardizes your financial future but may also violate Texas discovery rules and court  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/">Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets? A Texas Divorce and Property Guide</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Susannah A. Stinson, Board Certified Family Law Attorney </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Why Hidden Assets Matter in Texas Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Going through a divorce is emotionally stressful, especially when you suspect your spouse is hiding assets to avoid fair division. </span><b>Hiding assets in divorce </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">not only jeopardizes your financial future but may also violate Texas discovery rules and court orders. The</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS Law team</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help you fully understand how to uncover hidden assets and enforce disclosure to protect your rights and help secure an</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/what-are-you-entitled-to-in-a-divorce-in-texas/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">equitable property division.</span></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas, marital property is subject to a “just and right” division.¹ This includes all assets acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name appears on title documents. Concealing assets undermines this legal responsibility and can lead to serious penalties, including monetary sanctions, loss of credibility, disproportionate property division, or even potential criminal exposure in certain circumstances.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3601" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-300x200.png" alt="Spouse hiding assets" width="405" height="270" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-300x200.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-400x267.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-600x400.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-768x512.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694-800x534.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-1-e1772742431694.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 405px) 100vw, 405px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>Common Ways Spouses Hide Assets</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Understanding </span><b>how spouses hide assets</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is essential to spotting suspicious behavior early in your case. These tactics may appear simple, but can be difficult to detect without professional review.</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Secret Bank Accounts</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Opening accounts in other financial institutions or in another person’s name.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Undisclosed Real Estate</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Holding property under a business entity or a family member’s name.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Transferring Funds to Third Parties</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Gifting or selling assets to friends/family before filing.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Underreporting Income</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Especially common with self-employment or business owners.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Overpaying Debts or Taxes</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Temporarily reducing visible assets near filing.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Cryptocurrencies or Digital Assets</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Storing wealth in digital wallets or accounts.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Offshore Accounts</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Funds in foreign banks or investments.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These concealment efforts undermine the court’s ability to divide property in a just and right manner under </span><a href="https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&amp;code=FA&amp;chapter=FA.7&amp;artSec="><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Family Code § 7.001</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. If discovered, they can have serious legal consequences.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Red Flags: Signs Your Spouse May Be Hiding Assets</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not all hidden assets are obvious, but there are common </span><b>warning signs</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that warrant closer investigation:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Unexplained Withdrawals or Transfers</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Large amounts moving out of shared accounts with no clear purpose.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Sudden Changes in Lifestyle</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Expensive purchases or travel inconsistent with reported income.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Inconsistent Financial Statements</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Data that doesn’t match tax documents or spending patterns.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Missing or Withheld Financial Records</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Refusal to provide bank, investment, or retirement account info.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Changed Passwords or Lost Access</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Denial of access to shared accounts.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Unusual Transfers to Relatives or Businesses</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Movement of funds or property under other names.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you notice multiple red flags, speak with a qualified attorney immediately. They can begin the legal discovery and forensic review process on your behalf.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3602" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-300x199.png" alt="Hiding Assets- Legal Discover of Spouse Property" width="381" height="253" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-600x398.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-768x510.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792-800x531.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-2-e1772742450792.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 381px) 100vw, 381px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>How to Find Out if Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets</b></h2>
<h3><b>Formal Legal Discovery</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Once you file for divorce, both spouses are legally obligated to disclose all financial information. Your attorney can initiate formal discovery tools to compel this:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Interrogatories</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Written questions your spouse must answer under oath.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Requests for Production of Documents</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Demanding bank statements, tax returns, titles, trust documents, etc.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Depositions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Sworn in-person questioning that can catch inconsistencies.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Subpoenas</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Court orders for third parties (banks, employers, brokers) to release records.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Discovery is central to uncovering inaccurate disclosures and obtaining concrete evidence of hidden assets.</span></p>
<h3><b>Enlisting Forensic Experts</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In complex cases, especially with business interests or investments, attorneys often partner with </span><b>forensic accountants</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or </span><b>financial investigators</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. These professionals:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Trace financial transactions across accounts.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Analyze tax returns, cash flow, and lifestyle versus reported income.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Identify hidden accounts, offshore funds, or poorly categorized property.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/austin-high-asset-divorce-attorneys/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">high-asset cases</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, forensic analysis can uncover assets that might otherwise remain undisclosed.</span></p>
<p><b>Submitting Court Motions &amp; Sanctions</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your spouse refuses to comply with disclosure requests, your attorney can ask the court to:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="list-style-type: none;">
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Compel production</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of withheld information.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Impose sanctions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> under</span><a href="https://www.texasbar.com/AM/Template.cfm?Template=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&amp;ContentID=21118"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Rule of Civil Procedure 215</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Award attorney’s fees</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to you.</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Consider an unequal division of the marital estate or other appropriate remedies if concealment is proven.</b></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas courts have broad authority to enforce transparency and penalize dishonesty.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3603" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-300x175.png" alt="Hiding Assets- Legal Discover of Spouse Property" width="415" height="242" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-200x116.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-300x175.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-400x233.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-600x349.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-768x447.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597-800x466.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-1-e1772742471597.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 415px) 100vw, 415px" /> </span></p>
<h2><b>Legal Consequences of Hiding Assets in Texas Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hiding assets in divorce can carry legal consequences under Texas law. Texas treats asset concealment seriously, and courts have a range of remedies:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Contempt of Court: </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">A spouse who violates discovery orders or fails to disclose assets can be held in contempt, leading to fines, sanctions, or jail time.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Disproportionate Property Division or Other Remedies:</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> A court may award a disproportionate share of the marital estate or impose other equitable remedies if concealment is proven.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Financial Sanctions</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Courts can order payment of your attorney fees, expert fees, and court costs.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Perjury or Fraud Allegations: </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intentionally providing false testimony under oath may expose a spouse to criminal liability in certain circumstances.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Reopened Settlements: </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">If hidden assets are discovered after a final decree is entered, a spouse may have legal grounds to seek post-judgment relief.²</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These penalties underscore how seriously Texas courts enforce financial transparency in divorce.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Protecting Your Financial Future: What You Can Do Now</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Document Everything</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Keep copies of bank records, tax returns, and any suspicious financial activity.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Don’t Try to Investigate Alone</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: DIY discovery can overlook critical evidence. A lawyer knows what to ask for and where to look.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Act Early</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: The earlier you uncover hidden assets, the stronger your negotiation or litigation position.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Choose Experienced Counsel</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Family law and </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/real-estate-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">real estate</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> experience matters, especially with property and income complexities.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-2874" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-236x300.jpg" alt="Susannah Stinson, Family Law Attorney at Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP" width="291" height="370" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-200x254.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-236x300.jpg 236w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-400x509.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-600x763.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-768x977.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-800x1017.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-805x1024.jpg 805w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-1200x1526.jpg 1200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot-1208x1536.jpg 1208w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Susannah-Stinson-Headshot.jpg 1490w" sizes="(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px" /></h2>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Hidden Assets and Divorce in Texas</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Suspecting your spouse is hiding assets can feel overwhelming, especially when real estate holdings and decades of community investments are at stake. The good news is that Texas law protects your rights, and experienced legal representation can help ensure a fair and informed property division process.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At every step, from discovery to forensic investigation to court enforcement, the</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/complex-property-division-valuation/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">BCS family law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> team stands ready to help you find answers, protect your financial interests, and pursue a fair outcome in your divorce.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP’s family law team is uniquely experienced in understanding the process of asset disclosure and valuation, and how to safeguard your interests in those assets. The BCS family law practice is led by veteran Board-Certified Family Law attorneys <a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/">Leslie Bollier </a>and <a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/">Susannah Stinson</a>, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">who are recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ Tex. Fam. Code § 7.001.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">² Tex. Fam. Code § 7.009.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high-asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-your-spouse-hiding-assets-a-texas-divorce-and-property-guide/">Is Your Spouse Hiding Assets? A Texas Divorce and Property Guide</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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		<title>Divorce and Real Estate: Benefits of Having a Divorce and Real Estate Attorney</title>
		<link>https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-real-estate-benefits-of-having-a-divorce-and-real-estate-attorney/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[kelly@lalapow.com]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:07:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Law News]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://bclawtx.com/?p=3590</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>By Leslie J. Boiller, Board Certified Family Law Attorney Insights from an Experienced Texas Family Law and Real Estate Legal Team If you own real estate and are contemplating divorce in Austin or elsewhere in Central Texas, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed emotionally and financially. One of the most significant areas of concern for many couples  [...]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-real-estate-benefits-of-having-a-divorce-and-real-estate-attorney/">Divorce and Real Estate: Benefits of Having a Divorce and Real Estate Attorney</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">By Leslie J. Boiller, Board Certified Family Law Attorney</span></a></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Insights from an Experienced Texas Family Law and Real Estate Legal Team</span></i></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you own real estate and are contemplating divorce in Austin or elsewhere in Central Texas, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed emotionally and financially. One of the most significant areas of concern for many couples is how to divide property that’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">not cash in the bank</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, particularly homes, land, rental properties, offices, retail, commercial property or other real estate assets. Navigating these issues requires deep legal knowledge of both divorce law and </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/real-estate-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">real estate</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> law. That’s where a Family Law team of experienced in-house </span><b>divorce and real estate attorneys</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> becomes essential.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In this guide, the BCS Law team will explain how Texas handles real estate in divorce, what can go wrong without proper counsel, and the major benefits of having experienced in-house lawyers guide you through the process.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3592" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-300x199.png" alt="Real Estate Division in Texas Divorce" width="448" height="297" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-600x399.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-768x511.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3-800x532.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/3.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 448px) 100vw, 448px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>Texas Is a Community Property State &#8211; But Real Estate Division Is Not Automatically Equal</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In Texas, the division of assets in a divorce follows</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/is-texas-a-community-property-state/"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">community property</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> principles. Under the</span><a href="https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/?tab=1&amp;code=FA&amp;chapter=FA.3&amp;artSec=3.002"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Texas Family Code</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, property acquired during marriage is presumed to be community property, meaning both spouses share ownership rights¹.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, Texas courts do not automatically divide community property equally. Under Tex. Fam. Code § 7.001, courts divide community property in a “just and right” manner, which does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split. Courts may consider factors such as fault in the breakup of the marriage, disparity in earning capacity, and other equitable considerations when determining division.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This presumption applies to most real estate:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your family home</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vacant land you bought during marriage</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Investment properties purchased together</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even property bought in one spouse’s name if marital funds were used to acquire or maintain it</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Importantly, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">separate property</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> &#8211; such as property owned before marriage, gifts, and most inheritances &#8211; is not subject to division. But the burden of proving that property is separate falls on the spouse claiming it. Without clear and convincing evidence (such as documented traceable funds or deeds from before marriage), property claimed as separate may be characterized as community property.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Why Real Estate Is Complex in Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlike cash or bank accounts, real estate is a non-liquid, high-value asset with substantial emotional and financial implications. Its valuation and division involve issues that are often overlooked:</span></p>
<h3><b>Accurate Valuation Is Not Simple</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Real estate cannot be split like a simple bank account. Determining </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">fair market value</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> often requires professional appraisals, particularly in dynamic real estate markets like Austin and Central Texas. Under- or overvaluing property can dramatically affect your share of the marital estate.</span></p>
<h3><b>Title and Ownership Don’t Tell the Full Story</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Just because your name is on the deed doesn’t automatically make real estate separate property. Texas law presumes property acquired during marriage is community property unless you can prove otherwise.</span></p>
<h3><b>Real Estate May Carry Debt</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mortgages, lines of credit, and property tax liabilities often accompany real estate. Dividing these obligations fairly &#8211; or deciding who keeps the property &#8211; is a legal and financial puzzle.</span></p>
<h3><b>Community vs. Separate Property Can Be Hotly Contested</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sometimes one spouse claims an asset is separate property, while the other disputes that characterization. These disagreements often hinge on meticulous financial records and legal arguments.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In addition, real estate disputes frequently involve reimbursement claims. For example, community funds may be used to improve separate property, or separate funds may be used to reduce debt on community property. Texas law allows courts to consider equitable reimbursement claims under Tex. Fam. Code § 3.402, which can significantly affect the ultimate property division.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In other words: real estate isn’t just property &#8211; it’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">complex wealth</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that can shape your long-term financial future.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3593" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-300x198.png" alt="Real Estate Valuation in Texas Divorce" width="417" height="275" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-200x132.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-300x198.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-400x264.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-600x396.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-768x507.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2-800x529.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 417px) 100vw, 417px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>Benefits of a Divorce and Real Estate Attorney</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Given the high stakes, here’s why partnering with a skilled </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">divorce and real estate legal team</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> matters:</span></p>
<h3><b>Expert Understanding of Texas Community Property Law</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A divorce attorney with real estate experience knows the nuances of Texas’s community property system. They help you understand what is truly separate vs. community property — and how courts may view it.</span></p>
<h3><b>Strategic Property Valuations and Appraisals</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Experienced attorneys know when to engage expert appraisers or financial analysts to determine real property values accurately. Getting valuations right early can prevent long-term financial losses.</span></p>
<h3><b>Negotiation That Protects Your Interests</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whether negotiating an amicable settlement or representing you in court hearings, seasoned attorneys shape agreements to reflect your financial goals. They consider all variables &#8211; including future tax implications, mortgage obligations, and potential rental income.</span></p>
<h3><b>Minimizing Long-Term Financial Risk</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Real estate distribution affects your credit, taxes, and future net worth. For example, tax code provisions (like</span><a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-26/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-1/subject-group-ECFRbf83dcc4bd89326/section-1.1041-1T"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Section 1041 of the Internal Revenue Code</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">) allow property transfers between spouses without immediate tax consequences </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">if handled correctly</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your attorney helps structure these transfers to minimize unnecessary tax exposure and legal complications.</span></p>
<h3><b>Protecting Equity and Investment Properties</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your marriage involves investment real estate (e.g., rental homes or commercial property), your attorney will assess income, debt, cash flow, and separate vs. community claims to secure what you’re due.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For couples who also own a closely held business, coordination with </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/business-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">business counsel</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> may also be necessary.</span></p>
<h3><b>Preparing for Litigation When Necessary</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not all divorces settle peacefully. If discussions break down, your attorney handles motion practice, court hearings, and trial preparation &#8211; all while advancing your best economic interests.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<h2><b>Common Real Estate Scenarios in Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are a few real-world examples of how a divorce and real estate attorney helps clients:</span></p>
<h3><b>Keeping the Family Home</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One spouse wants to keep the home; the other wants cash or other assets of equivalent value. Your attorney calculates what it would cost to buy out the other spouse’s share and negotiates favorable terms.</span></p>
<h3><b>Selling and Dividing Proceeds</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some cases, selling the property and dividing net proceeds is most equitable. Attorneys coordinate with realtors, review listing agreements, and help ensure sale proceeds are distributed in accordance with the divorce decree.</span></p>
<h3><b>Title and Deed Disputes</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If one spouse claims separate property interest but the deed contradicts that claim, your attorney gathers evidence &#8211; like financial records &#8211; to support (or counter) that position in court.</span></p>
<h3><b>Rental Property and Tax Implications</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dividing rental real estate involves not just equity but future income streams and tax consequences. An attorney ensures that valuation considers these factors.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> <img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3591" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-300x199.png" alt="Accounting for Texas Divorce and Real Estate" width="436" height="289" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-200x133.png 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-300x199.png 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-400x266.png 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-600x399.png 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-768x511.png 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4-800x532.png 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/4.png 940w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px" /></span></p>
<h2><b>How In-House Divorce and Real Estate Attorneys Work With Outside Experts</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To address real estate complexities, attorneys often collaborate with:</span></p>
<h3><b>Appraisers</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For accurate market value assessments.</span></p>
<h3><b>Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To analyze tax implications of real estate division.</span></p>
<h3><b>Financial Analysts</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Especially in </span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/austin-high-asset-divorce-attorneys/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">high-net-worth</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> cases where long-term projections matter.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This multidisciplinary approach ensures all angles are covered.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span><b>The Advantage of an In-House Family Law and Real Estate Team</b></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When a divorce involves real estate, legal strategy must account for both community property law and real estate mechanics. Because Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP houses both family law and real estate lawyers (business attorneys, also) under one roof, clients benefit from coordinated legal guidance, often without the need to engage outside real estate counsel.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An integrated in-house team provides:</span></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Aligned strategy from the outset</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Property division decisions are structured with deed requirements, refinancing issues, and title considerations in mind.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Real-time collaboration</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Attorneys communicate directly, reducing delays and minimizing the risk of inconsistent advice.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Efficient document preparation</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Deeds, lien releases, and transfer instruments can be reviewed and prepared without onboarding outside counsel.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Reduced risk of post-divorce complications</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">: Property transfers are structured carefully to avoid title defects or enforcement disputes later.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This coordinated approach promotes clarity, efficiency, and long-term protection when real estate is at stake in divorce proceedings.</span></p>
<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2623" src="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-300x291.jpg" alt="Leslie J. Bollier, Central Texas Family Law Lawyer, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP " width="300" height="291" srcset="https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-200x194.jpg 200w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-300x291.jpg 300w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-400x388.jpg 400w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-600x582.jpg 600w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-768x745.jpg 768w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson-800x776.jpg 800w, https://bclawtx.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/12_Texas-Family-Divorce-Law_Bollier-Ciccone-Stinson.jpg 816w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
<h2><b>Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Real Estate In Divorce</b></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your marriage involves real estate &#8211; whether it’s your family home, land, or investment properties &#8211; engaging an in-house </span><b>divorce and real estate legal team </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">is a strategic investment in your financial future. Texas divorce and property division laws are intricate, and mistakes can cost you significantly both now and in decades to come.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your real estate isn’t just an asset &#8211; it’s part of your future stability, credit foundation, and retirement planning. With skilled legal guidance, you can navigate these challenges with clarity, confidence, and a plan that protects your best interests.</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Contact the experienced attorneys at</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for a consultation.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP’s family law team is uniquely experienced in understanding the nature and value of complex estates, the underlying legal issues, and how to safeguard your interests in those assets. The</span><a href="https://bclawtx.com/practice-areas/family-law/"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> BCS Family Law</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> practice is led by veteran Board-Certified Family Law attorneys <a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/leslie-j-bollier/">Leslie Bollier </a>and <a href="https://bclawtx.com/team-member/susannah-a-stinson/">Susannah Stinson</a>, </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">who are recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">¹ Tex. Fam. Code § 3.003.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></p>
<p><b>About Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP</b></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP is a boutique law firm in Austin, Texas, providing trusted legal representation in family law, high asset divorce and child custody, construction law, business law, and real estate law. Since 1990, the firm’s experienced attorneys have delivered strategic, personalized legal solutions and strong results for individuals, families, developers, property owners, and businesses.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Known for deep legal expertise, compassion, and a collaborative, team-based approach, Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP offers comprehensive counsel in high-stakes matters, including contested custody and complex asset division, construction contracts and disputes, commercial and residential real estate transactions, business formation and litigation, and complex civil litigation. The firm’s attorneys are widely recognized for professional excellence, with many holding Board Certifications in their practice areas and receiving respected industry honors, reflecting the firm’s commitment to superior client service and ethical advocacy.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bollier Ciccone Stinson LLP serves clients throughout Central Texas, including Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Taylor, Hutto, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Manor, Bee Cave, Sunset Valley, Circle C, Westlake, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, and across the entire State of Texas.</span></i></p>
<p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more at</span></i><a href="http://bclawtx.com/"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BClawTX.com</span></i></a><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://bclawtx.com/divorce-and-real-estate-benefits-of-having-a-divorce-and-real-estate-attorney/">Divorce and Real Estate: Benefits of Having a Divorce and Real Estate Attorney</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bclawtx.com">Bollier Ciccone Stinson Law Texas</a>.</p>
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