Family law matters can change your life, your finances, and your relationship with your children. If you are facing divorce, custody, support, or adoption, working with an experienced Houston family law attorney gives you structure, clarity, and protection during a stressful time.
At Universal Law Group, our Houston family law attorneys represent individuals and families in divorce and family court matters throughout Houston, Harris County, and nearby communities. We focus on practical solutions, clear communication, and steady progress, so you always understand where your case stands and what comes next.
Whether your situation involves contested custody, property division, child or spousal support, or adoption, our team guides you through each step of the Texas family law process and prepares your case for negotiation, mediation, or court when needed.
Why Work With a Houston Family Law Attorney at Universal Law Group
We focus on practical solutions and strong advocacy. You get honest advice, prompt communication, and steady progress.
-
Proven courtroom and negotiation experience. Our attorneys handle hearings, mediation, and trial in Harris County and nearby courts.
-
Hands-on leadership. Managing Partners Brian Nguyen and Anissah Nguyen lead cases with deep litigation backgrounds.
-
Full-service support. We cover divorce, adoption, custody, support, property division, modifications, enforcement, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and protective orders.
-
Access and convenience. Virtual consults available. Evening availability upon request. English and Spanish available.
-
Clear fees. You receive transparent billing and upfront expectations.
Service areas: Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, Brazoria County, Galveston County, and the surrounding communities.
Meet Our Houston Family Attorneys
Brian Nguyen, Managing Partner
Former Assistant District Attorney. Trial-tested across CPS, misdemeanor, felony, and juvenile dockets. Leader in personal injury and criminal defense. Licensed in Texas and New York. Brian brings a prosecutor’s eye for evidence and a practical approach to family law disputes.
Anissah Marie Nguyen, Managing Partner
Litigator focused on complex civil and business matters and family law. Selected to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars (2021). Fellow, Texas Bar Foundation. Licensed in Texas state courts, S.D. Tex., and W.D. Tex. Anissah applies rigorous case preparation and a results-first mindset to divorce, custody, and property division.
Our team treats your case with care and urgency. You will always know your next step.
How a Houston Family Law Attorney Protects Your Rights
Your attorney gives you a plan, protects your rights, and moves your case forward. We explain the process, set clear goals, gather evidence, and resolve disputes through mediation or, when needed, in court.
Common goals we help you achieve:
-
A parenting plan that fits your child’s needs and your schedule.
-
A fair property division under Texas community property rules.
-
Child support that matches Texas guideline calculations or justified deviations.
-
Safe arrangements where family violence is a concern.
-
A smooth adoption process with clear milestones and timelines.
Our Family Law Services in Houston
Universal Law Group provides focused family law representation for clients across Houston and Harris County. Each case is handled with attention to local court practices, Texas statutes, and the practical realities families face during legal transitions.
Divorce (Contested and Uncontested)
Divorce in Texas follows community property rules, which means assets acquired during marriage are generally subject to division. In Houston family courts, judges apply a “just and right” standard rather than an automatic 50/50 split, which makes preparation and evidence critical.
Our Houston family law attorneys handle both contested and uncontested divorces involving real estate, closely held businesses, retirement accounts, reimbursement claims, and alleged commingling. We regularly appear in Harris County courts and prepare cases for mediation or trial when settlement is not possible.
Process highlights include:
-
Temporary orders addressing parenting time, support, and exclusive use of the marital home
-
Mandatory mediation in most Harris County cases
-
Trial preparation when negotiated resolution fails
Child Custody (Conservatorship & Possession)
Texas law refers to custody as conservatorship and possession, and courts decide these issues based on the best interest of the child under the Texas Family Code. While many Houston courts begin with a Standard Possession Order, judges often approve custom schedules when supported by the facts.
We help parents build parenting plans that address school schedules, exchanges, holidays, decision-making authority, communication rules, and relocation concerns. In high-conflict cases, we present evidence related to caregiving history, stability, and safety—factors Harris County judges routinely evaluate.
Child Support
Child support in Texas is calculated using statutory guideline percentages based on net resources, but Houston courts may approve deviations when supported by evidence. Health insurance costs, special needs, extended possession schedules, and travel expenses can all affect the final amount.
Our attorneys handle new child support orders, enforcement actions, arrears cases, and modifications based on a material and substantial change in circumstances. We ensure calculations comply with Texas guidelines and accurately reflect current income and expenses.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
Spousal maintenance in Texas is limited and fact-specific. Courts consider eligibility, duration, and amount under the Texas Family Code, with attention to income, earning capacity, disability, and any history of family violence.
We prepare evidence tailored to Houston court standards and help clients pursue or defend against maintenance claims with realistic expectations and clear documentation.
Adoption
We represent families in stepparent, relative, private, CPS, and adult adoptions throughout Houston and surrounding counties. Adoption cases involve strict statutory steps, including consents, termination of parental rights when required, home studies, and final court approval.
Our team manages deadlines, coordinates with agencies, and keeps cases moving through Harris County courts with clear timelines and consistent communication.
Modifications and Enforcement
Life changes, and court orders sometimes need to change with it. We handle modifications of custody, possession, child support, and spousal maintenance when circumstances meet Texas legal standards.
For enforcement matters, we represent clients in cases involving denied visitation, unpaid support, and order violations. Harris County judges expect precise pleadings and proof, and we prepare cases accordingly.
Protective Orders and Family Violence
Safety is the priority in cases involving family violence. We seek protective orders, temporary relief, and safe parenting arrangements under Texas law, and we prepare evidence that meets local court requirements.
When appropriate, we also coordinate with counselors and community resources to support long-term safety planning.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements define property rights and expectations under Texas law. We draft and review agreements with full disclosure, enforceable terms, and careful attention to community and separate property rules recognized by Houston courts.
Mediation and Collaborative Options
Most Houston family law cases require mediation before trial. We prepare clients with clear goals, organized financial information, and practical proposals that support resolution.
If mediation does not succeed, our attorneys are prepared to move forward in court with a focused litigation strategy.
How Your Case Moves Forward
-
Consultation: We hear your goals, outline options, and map next steps.
-
Information & Evidence: You gather key documents. We build your file.
-
Temporary Relief (if needed): We set short-term parenting and support terms.
-
Negotiation & Mediation: We work to resolve issues outside court.
-
Court: We try your case when settlement is not possible.
-
Final Orders & Aftercare: We confirm compliance and handle modifications as life changes.
What to bring to your consult: Recent court orders, pay stubs, tax returns, property records, a brief timeline, and your top three goals.
Local Knowledge That Helps
We handle cases in Harris County family courts and regularly work in Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, and Galveston. We understand local procedures, standing orders, and mediation practices. We offer virtual meetings and flexible scheduling for busy professionals and parents.
Plain-English Legal Basics
-
Community vs. separate property: Community is usually split in a “just and right” manner. Separate property stays with its owner. Proof matters.
-
Best interest of the child: Courts look at stability, caregiving history, safety, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
-
Child support: Texas guidelines start with percentages of net resources. Adjustments may apply.
-
Spousal maintenance: Limited and fact-specific. Evidence on need, earning capacity, and any family violence finding can affect eligibility and duration.
-
SAPCR: A Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship sets rights, duties, custody, and support for parents who are not divorcing or were never married.
Pricing and Access
-
Consultation options available.
-
Clear retainers and monthly statements.
-
Payment options available.
-
Private, secure communication channels.
[ez-toc]
- 10350 Richmond Ave. Suite 450, Houston, TX 77042
- (+1) 832-767-0339
- info@ulg.law
- Mon – Fri 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Family Law Attorney Houston FAQ
Do I need a family law attorney?
Oftentimes, it’s beneficial to hire a family law attorney. Houston families don’t require representation in every matter, of course. However, it’s easy to grow overwhelmed by Texas family law statutes. When you have a lawyer to mediate matters, they understand how to interpret laws that apply to your situation.
Even simple matters involve complex requirements and mountains of paperwork. With an attorney, you have someone to ensure you follow all procedures and meet all deadlines.
In a contested matter, it is essential to work with a Houston family law lawyer. This ranges from modifications to custody orders to divorce. Even when your family case does not go to court, it often requires negotiations. To reach a fair resolution, you need an advocate on your side.
Do you help with protective orders?
As a trusted family law attorney, Houston families rely on us for many forms of protection. If you suffer in a domestic abuse situation, we offer representation to help you attain a protective order.
Protective orders help to ensure your safety in life. Whether at home, school, or work, you have the right to live safely with peace of mind. When your abuser violates a protective order, they may be subject to criminal charges.
At Universal Law Group, our Houston family lawyers take domestic abuse cases seriously. If you suffer from abuse or domestic violence, seek the help of a local family law attorney. When you have representation, you have someone to help you develop an exit strategy, file for divorce and custody, and rebuild.
When you schedule a free case evaluation with our legal team, trust that everything remains confidential. Entrust our family lawyer serving Houston, TX with your case.
What are the grounds for divorce in Texas?
If you want a divorce, your first question is likely whether you have the option. While celebrity news makes divorce seem easy, Texas courts require that couples have solid grounds for it. With a family law attorney, Houston residents have more guidance to help them navigate this process.
In order to attain a divorce, you have to raise and prove at least one “ground” for the court. The state places these grounds into two categories:
- Fault
- No-fault
These might seem minute at first, but they play an important role for the purposes of division of property, maintenances awards, and parental rights.
Fault Divorce
A fault divorce requires the individual who requests the divorce to prove the other person did something wrong. There are several options available in this category. Generally, proof comes in the form of testimony, documentation from a private investigator, etc.
While this type of divorce is a bit less common due to the ease of the no-fault process, they are an option. When you partner with a family law attorney, Houston has someone to explain the benefits of this form of divorce.
The most common grounds in a fault divorce include the following.
- Cruelty
- Adultery
- Felony criminal conviction
- Abandonment
However, these are not the only reasons. Generally, there are many reasons behind a fault divorce. Some less common examples include these options.
- Alcoholism or substance abuse
- Infertility
- Impotency
- Sexual preference
- Religious or cultural differences
- Financial issues (when one spouse is unwilling to provide support)
No-Fault Divorce
Since the 1960s, this type of divorce has become far more common. Generally speaking, this is because they require less time and money. Additionally, they do not require the party requesting a divorce to prove anything in particular.
Oftentimes, people want to avoid the muddying of names that comes with a fault divorce. Moreover, if the records become public, it makes those intimate details accessible to anyone.
Typically, the person who files for divorce does not need specific reasons for the court to grant a no-fault divorce. However, you still have to show why the court should grant the divorce. When you work with a family law attorney Houston trusts, you have an advocate on your side to help.
Here are some of the most common grounds for a no-fault divorce.
- Insupportability (the marriage is no longer endurable)
- Living apart for at least 3 years
- Confinement in a mental hospital
With a Family Law Attorney, Houston Has Help
Every situation is unique when it comes to divorce, adoption, and other family matters. No matter what happens, it’s important to seek the help of a qualified family law attorney Houston can count on.
At Universal Law Group, we understand how intimate and difficult family issues are. That’s why we approach every case with the empathy and understanding that you deserve. At our full-service law firm, we protect the rights of families across the Greater Houston Area.
Schedule a free consultation with our team today to learn more about your rights and options.
Talk to a Family Law Attorney in Houston Today
Are you facing a divorce, custody case, or another family matter? We are ready to help. Contact Universal Law Group to speak with an experienced Houston family law attorney.
Call our office or submit an online form to schedule your consultation. Our team is ready to answer your questions and provide honest, practical legal guidance.