Montgomery County Family Law Blog

Texas child custody disputes tend to center around the best interests of the child(ren) involved. Of course, every child custody matter is limited by the reality of the parents' work schedules, physical locations, financial means and personal histories. However, Texas family law courts invariably consider these issues and decide the matters in ways that reflect the best solutions for the kids.

In this sense, the parents' wants and needs always take a back seat to the needs and interests of the children involved.

Not too long ago, prenuptial agreements were something movie stars and the very rich required before tying the knot. Then came the millennials. Research has shown that millennials increasingly sign prenuptial agreements in order to protect their belongings in case of divorce. Experts in family law are of the opinion that the following four words -- delay, divorce, dynasty and debt -- may be four of the main reasons why Texas millennials believe that prenups are the way to go.  

Let's consider these four reasons. Delay refers to the fact that millennials tend to tie the knot at a later age than the generations before them. This means that, when the time comes for them to get married, they are mostly financially secure. At the same time, independence and financial equity are important to many millennials. The second reason is based on the fact that approximately 50 percent of millennials have parents whose marriages failed; therefore, they have firsthand experience with the turmoil of deciding who gets what and the accompanying emotional hardships families may go through.

Prenuptial agreements have become part of the planning of most marriages in Texas. This is because divorce has become a reality, and not frowned upon any longer. Couples do not necessarily plan for divorce, but they sign agreements to avoid traumatic and contentious court battles if the marriage should end. Although prenups mainly serve to protect the personal assets of each spouse and deal with alimony, any other matters could be included. Child custody and child support concerns are not generally addressed in these contracts since those issues are always subject to a determination of the child's best interests.

It is not guaranteed that the court will honor all prenuptial agreements. However, there are three requirements to meet to make sure the agreement is valid. There must be no indication that one of the parties was coerced into signing it, and the contract must not violate any public policies. The court must also be satisfied that the agreement is fair; though even if one party seems favored, if the other party willingly signed it, the court may find it acceptable.

If you're planning to end a marriage in the coming months, it's important to be aware of the potential health ramifications that can follow such a big life change. According to health experts, divorce can lead to numerous serious health problems. In fact, studies show that divorced people have far higher rates of smoking and sedentary lifestyle as compared to those who are single or married. Taking proactive steps to preserve health is important for Texas residents. 

Researchers believe that marriage acts to regulate many common behaviors. For example, spouses who have unhealthy habits like smoking or avoiding exercise might be prompted to make better choices at the urging of their partner. When that influence is gone, individuals can slip back into their previous bad habits.