How one can get full custody in Texas? This is not nearly paperwork; it is about navigating a maze of authorized jargon, emotional turmoil, and the unwavering hope for a greater future. It is about understanding the complexities of the Texas Household Code, the intricate dance of proof, and the sometimes-surprising elements that sway a decide’s determination. This journey delves into the center of custody battles, providing a sensible roadmap to navigate the authorized panorama and probably safe the absolute best final result to your baby.
Texas regulation is not a simple affair, and acquiring full custody is a major enterprise. It is not about merely wanting it; it is about demonstrating to the court docket that you’re the perfect match to boost your baby, fulfilling their wants and nurturing their potential.
Authorized Necessities for Full Custody in Texas
Full custody in Texas, legally termed “sole managing conservatorship,” is a major authorized association that grants a mother or father major duty for a kid’s upbringing and well-being. Acquiring this association requires demonstrating to the court docket that it’s within the kid’s greatest curiosity. This usually entails presenting proof and testimony supporting the mother or father’s capability to supply a steady and nurturing atmosphere.Judges in Texas custody circumstances prioritize the kid’s greatest pursuits above all else.
Elements thought-about embrace the kid’s bodily and emotional well-being, the mother or father’s capability to supply a steady residence, and the mother or father’s capability to satisfy the kid’s wants. The authorized course of for acquiring full custody entails particular necessities, documentation, and procedures, all designed to make sure a good and equitable final result.
Authorized Requirements for Full Custody
Texas courts assess quite a few elements when figuring out custody preparations. These elements are multifaceted and sometimes intertwined, making every case distinctive. The court docket considers the mother or father’s capability to supply a steady residence atmosphere, monetary stability, and emotional capability to nurture the kid. The kid’s needs are additionally taken under consideration, notably when the kid is of enough maturity to precise a choice.
Variations Between Sole Managing Conservatorship and Full Custody
Whereas usually used interchangeably, “sole managing conservatorship” and “full custody” are distinct ideas in Texas household regulation. Sole managing conservatorship encompasses the first rights and obligations for the kid’s care, together with decision-making authority on schooling, well being, and spiritual upbringing. Full custody, as a sensible matter, is synonymous with sole managing conservatorship.
Authorized Paperwork for Initiating a Full Custody Case
To provoke a full custody case in Texas, a number of authorized paperwork are crucial. These paperwork function the muse for the court docket proceedings and must be meticulously ready and filed with the court docket. Crucially, these paperwork should be correct and full to keep away from delays or issues within the authorized course of.
- Petition for Go well with Affecting the Father or mother-Baby Relationship: This doc formally initiates the custody case, outlining the reduction sought and the particular points to be addressed in court docket.
- Affidavits: Sworn statements from events concerned within the case, together with the mother or father looking for custody, are very important in supporting their claims.
- Monetary Paperwork: Proof of revenue, bills, and belongings of each mother and father is commonly required to evaluate the power to assist the kid.
- Medical Information: If related to the kid’s well-being, medical data present necessary details about the kid’s well being historical past and present situation.
- Witness Statements: Statements from people who can present perception into the household dynamics and the kid’s well-being are essential.
Petitioning for Full Custody in Texas
The petitioning course of for full custody in Texas is a proper authorized process. A mother or father should file a petition with the suitable court docket, clearly outlining their request for sole managing conservatorship. This petition ought to element the particular causes for looking for full custody and the proof supporting their declare.
- Submitting the Petition: The mother or father looking for custody should file a petition with the court docket, offering all crucial data and supporting paperwork.
- Serving the Different Father or mother: The court docket should guarantee the opposite mother or father is formally notified of the petition.
- Discovery and Responses: Each events have a chance to assemble data and proof by means of discovery, together with depositions and interrogatories.
- Trial and Listening to: If the case can’t be settled, a trial is held to current proof and testimony to the decide.
- Judgment: The decide points a closing order outlining the custody association deemed to be within the kid’s greatest curiosity.
Particular Authorized Necessities and Procedures
Acquiring full custody in Texas requires adherence to particular authorized necessities and procedures. The next desk Artikels key facets.
Requirement | Process | Related Statutes/Case Regulation |
---|---|---|
Greatest Curiosity of the Baby | The court docket should prioritize the kid’s greatest pursuits in figuring out the custody association. | Texas Household Code, numerous sections |
Monetary Stability | Proof of the power to supply for the kid’s wants should be introduced. | In re the Marriage of [relevant case], and many others. |
Secure Residence Setting | The court docket considers the steadiness and security of the proposed atmosphere. | Texas Household Code, numerous sections |
Father or mother’s Capability | The court docket assesses the mother or father’s capability to satisfy the kid’s emotional and developmental wants. | In re the Marriage of [relevant case], and many others. |
Elements Influencing Custody Selections in Texas
Texas courts prioritize the perfect pursuits of the kid when figuring out custody preparations. This entails contemplating a mess of things, together with the parent-child relationship, the kid’s emotional and bodily well-being, and the capability of every mother or father to supply a steady and nurturing atmosphere. The court docket’s final aim is to create a custody plan that promotes the kid’s total progress and growth.
The Greatest Pursuits of the Baby
The “greatest pursuits of the kid” is the paramount consideration in all custody circumstances. This encompasses a variety of things, together with the kid’s bodily and emotional wants, the standard of the parent-child relationships, and the steadiness of the house atmosphere. The court docket evaluates the potential impression of assorted custody preparations on the kid’s well-being, looking for to determine the choice that greatest fosters the kid’s current and future wants.
This multifaceted strategy ensures that the kid’s total welfare is the central focus within the decision-making course of.
Parental Roles and Impression on Custody Selections
The court docket rigorously assesses the roles and obligations of every mother or father in relation to the kid. Elements such because the mother or father’s capability to supply a steady residence atmosphere, monetary safety, and emotional assist are thought-about. The court docket examines every mother or father’s involvement within the kid’s every day life, together with faculty actions, extracurricular pursuits, and medical care. A mother or father’s constant and lively participation in these facets is commonly seen positively.
Examples of Favorable Circumstances for One Father or mother
A mother or father’s constant demonstration of stability and duty can usually sway a custody determination. For instance, a mother or father who maintains a steady employment historical past, demonstrates monetary safety, and actively participates within the kid’s schooling and extracurricular actions could also be perceived as extra able to offering a steady and supportive atmosphere. Equally, a mother or father who has demonstrated a powerful and nurturing relationship with the kid, constantly prioritizing the kid’s wants, could be favored.
Conversely, a mother or father with a historical past of inconsistent attendance in school occasions, rare contact with the kid, or struggles with substance abuse could also be much less more likely to be awarded major custody.
Kid’s Needs (if relevant)
Whereas not at all times determinative, a court docket might take into account the kid’s needs if the kid is of enough maturity and understanding to precise a choice. The court docket will rigorously assess the kid’s reasoning and take into account the kid’s total maturity degree. The kid’s assertion should be weighed towards the totality of proof, contemplating different elements related to the perfect pursuits of the kid.
The court docket’s analysis of the kid’s expressed needs is essential in making certain the kid’s voice is heard and thought of within the custody determination.
Frequent Elements Influencing Custody Selections
The next desk illustrates some widespread elements influencing custody choices in Texas, and their relative weight within the authorized course of. Take into account that this isn’t an exhaustive checklist and every case is evaluated individually primarily based on its distinctive circumstances.
Issue | Description | Weight |
---|---|---|
Father or mother-Baby Relationship | High quality of relationship, emotional bonding, and degree of interplay. | Excessive |
Stability of Residence Setting | Consistency in residing preparations, security, and emotional assist. | Excessive |
Monetary Assets | Skill to supply for the kid’s wants. | Medium |
Emotional Maturity of Dad and mom | Capability to deal with battle and assist the kid’s well-being. | Excessive |
Kid’s Bodily and Emotional Wants | Consideration of the kid’s well being, growth, and emotional wants. | Excessive |
Kid’s Needs (if relevant and acceptable) | Assertion of choice by the kid, if sufficiently mature. | Low to Medium |
Proof Wanted to Assist a Full Custody Declare: How To Get Full Custody In Texas
Securing full custody in Texas requires a complete presentation of proof demonstrating the mother or father’s suitability and the kid’s greatest pursuits. This entails meticulously documenting parental involvement, showcasing a steady atmosphere, and, the place crucial, presenting skilled testimony. A powerful case hinges on the standard and relevance of the proof introduced, not simply the amount.Proof introduced in a custody case should be verifiable and instantly associated to the kid’s well-being and the mother or father’s capability to look after them.
Texas courts prioritize the kid’s greatest pursuits above all else, and proof should clearly assist this declare. Substantial proof exhibiting the mother or father’s capability to supply a nurturing and steady atmosphere is vital.
Kinds of Proof Required
Presenting a well-rounded image of the mother or father’s life and suitability is paramount. This entails extra than simply anecdotal statements; documented proof is essential. Medical data, faculty experiences, and character references can paint a extra full image of the kid’s atmosphere and the mother or father’s capabilities.
Documented Proof of Parental Involvement
Demonstrating constant and significant parental involvement is significant. This consists of exhibiting lively participation in class occasions, extracurricular actions, and every day routines. Information of appointments, outings, and communication with lecturers, coaches, and different important figures are necessary. For instance, detailed data of attending faculty occasions, reminiscent of concert events, performs, and sports activities video games, are essential to demonstrating the mother or father’s involvement.
Constant participation within the kid’s life actions demonstrates a dedication to the kid’s well-being and growth.
Demonstrating a Secure and Nurturing Setting
Proof showcasing a steady residence atmosphere is crucial. This might embrace images of the house, utility payments, and lease agreements. Moreover, testimonials from neighbors, members of the family, or associates who’ve noticed the mother or father interacting with the kid in a optimistic method can present invaluable insights. A well-maintained residence atmosphere, together with proof of a constant routine, helps reveal a steady and predictable environment conducive to the kid’s growth.
For example, a constant schedule for meals, homework, and bedtime routines contributes to the steadiness of the house atmosphere.
Skilled Testimony
Skilled testimony, notably from therapists or baby psychologists, can present invaluable insights into the kid’s wants and the mother or father’s capability to satisfy these wants. This testimony could be notably useful in circumstances involving allegations of abuse, neglect, or different important considerations in regards to the kid’s well-being. A toddler psychologist’s evaluation can provide insights into the kid’s emotional state, attachment patterns, and total growth, offering a deeper understanding of the kid’s greatest pursuits.
For instance, a therapist’s testimony concerning the kid’s emotional resilience following a annoying occasion could be very persuasive.
Comparative Evaluation of Proof Varieties
Kind of Proof | Description | Potential Impression on Custody Case |
---|---|---|
Medical Information | Paperwork associated to the kid’s well being, together with physician’s visits, diagnoses, and therapy plans. | Demonstrates the mother or father’s consciousness of the kid’s well being wants and skill to supply acceptable care. |
College Stories | Grades, attendance data, and trainer evaluations reflecting the kid’s educational efficiency and habits. | Highlights the kid’s progress in class and the mother or father’s involvement in supporting the kid’s schooling. |
Character References | Statements from people who can attest to the mother or father’s character, reliability, and skill to care for a kid. | Supplies impartial validation of the mother or father’s optimistic attributes and suitability as a caregiver. |
Monetary Information | Paperwork demonstrating the mother or father’s capability to supply for the kid’s wants, together with revenue statements and expense data. | Highlights the mother or father’s monetary stability and skill to assist the kid materially. |
Images/Movies | Visible documentation of the kid’s interactions with the mother or father and the house atmosphere. | Supplies concrete proof of the parent-child relationship and the standard of the house atmosphere. |
Understanding the Texas Household Code Associated to Custody

The Texas Household Code serves because the authorized framework governing household issues, together with baby custody. Understanding its provisions is essential for navigating the complexities of custody disputes and attaining a positive final result. This part delves into the important thing facets of the code associated to full custody, providing a structured overview of related sections and their implications.
Related Sections of the Texas Household Code
The Texas Household Code, primarily Chapters 101 and 102, Artikel the authorized ideas and procedures governing baby custody. These chapters deal with numerous facets, from figuring out the perfect curiosity of the kid to outlining the particular rights and obligations of fogeys. Sections inside these chapters deal with the mandatory standards and authorized requirements required to ascertain full custody. Navigating these provisions requires a complete understanding of the context and interpretation of the code within the particular circumstances of a custody case.
Authorized Definitions and Procedures within the Texas Household Code
The Texas Household Code supplies particular definitions for phrases related to custody disputes. These definitions guarantee readability and consistency in making use of the regulation. Procedures Artikeld within the code element the steps concerned in submitting and litigating a custody case, together with the presentation of proof and the position of the court docket. Understanding these definitions and procedures is crucial to successfully advocating for one’s place in a custody case.
Failure to stick to those procedures may end up in a much less favorable final result.
Hierarchical Construction of Key Provisions
The provisions of the Texas Household Code associated to full custody could be structured hierarchically. On the highest degree, the code emphasizes the “greatest curiosity of the kid” normal. This precept guides all custody choices. Subsequently, particular elements, reminiscent of parental health, emotional wants, and academic alternatives, are thought-about in figuring out the kid’s greatest curiosity. Lastly, the code Artikels the procedures for presenting proof and advocating for full custody.
Significance of Context and Interpretation
Understanding the context and interpretation of the Texas Household Code is paramount in custody circumstances. The code’s provisions aren’t static; they should be utilized within the particular circumstances of every case. Judges take into account the distinctive circumstances of every household, such because the kid’s age, the mother and father’ relationship, and any historical past of home violence. The interpretation of the regulation by the court docket, due to this fact, is influenced by the information of the actual case.
Desk of Key Sections
Part | Quotation | Description |
---|---|---|
Greatest Curiosity of the Baby | Household Code Part 101.001 | Artikels the overarching precept that guides all custody choices. |
Elements Affecting Custody Selections | Household Code Part 102.001 | Specifies the elements a court docket considers when figuring out the perfect curiosity of the kid, together with parental health, emotional wants, and academic alternatives. |
Full Custody Petition and Proceedings | Household Code Part 102.002, et seq. | Particulars the procedural necessities for initiating a full custody petition and the following authorized processes. |
Proof Necessities | Household Code Sections related to proof (e.g., 102.004) | Artikels the forms of proof admissible in custody circumstances. |
Representing Your self in a Full Custody Case in Texas
Representing oneself in a Texas full custody case generally is a daunting activity, fraught with potential pitfalls and complexities. Navigating the authorized system, understanding Texas Household Code provisions, and assembling a compelling case require specialised data and abilities usually greatest supplied by a professional legal professional. Whereas self-representation is an choice, it is essential to know the challenges and potential dangers concerned.Self-representation in a custody case, whereas legally permissible, can result in important disadvantages.
The authorized course of in Texas is intricate, demanding a deep understanding of procedural guidelines, proof presentation, and authorized technique. This understanding is commonly missing when people try to navigate the system with out authorized steering. Texas courts prioritize the perfect pursuits of the kid, and presenting a powerful case requires a nuanced strategy that considers all related elements.
Potential Complexities of Self-Illustration
Understanding the intricacies of Texas Household Code concerning custody, together with the definition of “greatest curiosity of the kid,” is crucial. Failure to totally comprehend these nuances can result in a weaker case presentation. This consists of navigating the invention course of, successfully interviewing witnesses, and presenting persuasive proof. Gathering and organizing crucial documentation, like medical data, faculty transcripts, and monetary statements, generally is a important hurdle for people with out authorized expertise.
Significance of Authorized Illustration
Authorized illustration is essential in a full custody case because of the complexity of the authorized course of. Attorneys possess the data and expertise to completely examine the information, determine related proof, and develop a powerful authorized technique. They’re expert in navigating the court docket system, understanding procedural necessities, and presenting a persuasive case to the decide. Attorneys may also assist mediate and negotiate with the opposing occasion, probably resulting in a extra favorable final result.
Methods for Presenting a Sturdy Case (Self-Illustration)
Thorough preparation is paramount when representing your self. A powerful case requires meticulous documentation, clear and concise communication with the court docket, and a radical understanding of the relevant legal guidelines and rules. Understanding and making use of the “greatest curiosity of the kid” normal is significant. In search of authorized recommendation from a professional legal professional on particular authorized points could be helpful, even when the case is primarily dealt with independently.
- Thorough Analysis: Change into deeply acquainted with Texas Household Code, related case regulation, and court docket procedures. Use on-line assets, authorized libraries, and authorized support providers to complement your data.
- Complete Documentation: Gather and manage all related paperwork associated to the kid’s well-being, together with medical data, faculty transcripts, monetary data, and witness statements. This meticulous documentation is essential for constructing a powerful case.
- Understanding Proof Guidelines: Familiarize your self with the principles of proof in Texas. Understanding the best way to current proof successfully, together with testimony and reveals, is vital for a profitable final result.
Potential Pitfalls and Dangers of Self-Illustration
Self-representation carries important dangers, together with the potential for authorized errors, misunderstandings of procedural necessities, and an lack of ability to current a compelling case. Judges might view a poorly introduced case unfavorably, impacting the end result. Failure to correctly doc and current proof can considerably weaken your case.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Self-Illustration
Issue | Self-Illustration | Hiring an Lawyer |
---|---|---|
Price | Probably decrease upfront prices | Greater upfront prices, probably ongoing charges |
Management | Full management over the case | Restricted management over sure facets of the case |
Authorized Experience | Lack of authorized experience generally is a important drawback | Experience in authorized technique, process, and proof presentation |
Time Dedication | Requires important effort and time | Lawyer handles a lot of the time-consuming facets |
End result | Probably profitable, however outcomes are unpredictable | Elevated chance of a positive final result resulting from authorized experience |
Stress Degree | Probably greater stress degree | Lowered stress and strain resulting from skilled help |
Making ready for a Custody Listening to in Texas
Making ready for a custody listening to in Texas requires meticulous planning and a complete understanding of the authorized course of. This part entails not solely gathering proof but additionally strategically presenting it to the court docket, demonstrating the perfect pursuits of the kid. Efficient preparation considerably will increase the possibilities of attaining a positive final result.
Organizing and Presenting Proof Successfully, How one can get full custody in texas
Thorough group of proof is essential for a profitable custody listening to. Proof should be introduced in a transparent, concise, and logical method, permitting the decide to simply perceive the related data. This consists of correctly labeling paperwork, offering context, and making certain the proof is admissible in court docket. Failing to arrange proof successfully can result in confusion and probably hinder the presentation of your case.
Gathering and Organizing Paperwork
Gathering and organizing related paperwork is a vital facet of making ready for a custody listening to. This consists of gathering data, medical experiences, faculty data, and another documentation that helps your claims. These paperwork must be meticulously organized, chronologically ordered, and clearly labeled to facilitate straightforward retrieval and presentation. A complete binder or file system is very really useful to take care of order and entry.
- Medical Information: Copies of medical data associated to the kid, together with physician’s notes, prescriptions, and immunization data. These data can reveal the kid’s well being standing and any particular wants.
- College Information: Copies of college experiences, progress experiences, disciplinary data, and trainer evaluations. These data present perception into the kid’s educational efficiency and social interplay.
- Monetary Information: Documentation of revenue, bills, and belongings of each mother and father. That is vital for assessing monetary capability to assist the kid.
- Images and Movies: Images and movies of the kid in numerous settings (e.g., faculty, extracurricular actions, residence atmosphere) could be invaluable in illustrating the kid’s way of life and relationships. These must be rigorously chosen and appropriately contextualized.
Methods for Efficient Communication
Efficient communication with the court docket and opposing counsel is crucial throughout the custody listening to course of. Clear and concise communication fosters a extra productive dialogue and reduces potential misunderstandings. This consists of respectful communication, adhering to court docket procedures, and presenting your case in a logical method.
Key Steps in Making ready for a Custody Listening to
A structured strategy to making ready for a custody listening to is crucial. This course of must be approached systematically, making certain that each one facets are adequately addressed.
Step | Description |
---|---|
Doc Evaluate | Thorough assessment of all related paperwork, together with medical data, faculty data, monetary statements, and another supporting supplies. Determine key data and potential areas of dispute. |
Witness Preparation | Determine and put together potential witnesses, outlining their testimony and key factors to convey. Rehearse their testimony to make sure readability and confidence. |
Testimony Preparation | Develop a transparent and concise narrative to your testimony, highlighting the kid’s greatest pursuits. Anticipate questions from the court docket and opposing counsel. |
Authorized Technique Dialogue | Seek the advice of with authorized counsel to strategize the presentation of your case and anticipate potential challenges from the opposing occasion. |
Courtroom Etiquette Evaluate | Evaluate acceptable courtroom etiquette and procedures to make sure an expert and respectful demeanor all through the listening to. |
Various Dispute Decision in Custody Circumstances

Various dispute decision (ADR) strategies, reminiscent of mediation, are more and more utilized in Texas custody circumstances. These strategies intention to facilitate communication and negotiation between mother and father, probably resulting in mutually agreeable custody preparations. By avoiding the adversarial nature of conventional court docket proceedings, ADR may help protect household relationships and scale back the emotional toll on kids.Mediation is a typical type of ADR in custody circumstances, the place a impartial third occasion, the mediator, helps the mother and father attain a voluntary settlement.
The mediator facilitates communication, identifies areas of settlement, and assists find options that deal with the wants of all events concerned, notably the kid’s greatest pursuits. Whereas not at all times profitable, mediation can considerably enhance the chance of a optimistic final result in comparison with litigation.
Mediation in Texas Custody Circumstances
Mediation is a course of the place a impartial third occasion, a mediator, helps mother and father in a custody dispute attain a mutually agreeable answer. Mediation goals to foster communication and negotiation, fairly than counting on adversarial proceedings. A key aim of mediation is to determine widespread floor and work collaboratively to develop a custody plan that greatest serves the kid’s wants.
Advantages of Mediation
Mediation affords a number of advantages in custody circumstances. It could actually result in faster resolutions than court docket proceedings, probably saving time and monetary assets. Mediation additionally fosters a extra cooperative atmosphere, probably bettering post-separation communication and cooperation between mother and father. Moreover, mediation usually ends in agreements which can be tailor-made to the particular wants of the household, probably resulting in extra amicable resolutions that higher replicate the wants of the kid.
Drawbacks of Mediation
Whereas mediation affords benefits, there are additionally drawbacks. It is probably not appropriate for all circumstances, notably these involving home violence or important energy imbalances. The success of mediation hinges on the willingness of each mother and father to take part actively and in good religion. If one occasion is unwilling to compromise or cooperate, mediation might not yield a profitable final result.
Examples of Profitable Mediation Outcomes
Profitable mediation outcomes in Texas custody circumstances usually contain a collaborative strategy, the place mother and father deal with the kid’s greatest pursuits. For instance, a case the place mother and father disagreed on extracurricular actions might be resolved by means of mediation by establishing clear pointers and obligations for every mother or father. One other instance could be a case the place mother and father had been struggling to agree on a visitation schedule; mediation may assist them develop a versatile schedule that accommodates each mother and father’ schedules and the kid’s wants.
Comparability of ADR Strategies
ADR Technique | Description | Potential Advantages | Potential Drawbacks |
---|---|---|---|
Mediation | Impartial third occasion facilitates communication and negotiation. | Faster decision, probably extra amicable, tailor-made to household wants. | Requires cooperation from each mother and father, is probably not appropriate for all circumstances. |
Arbitration | Impartial third occasion makes a binding determination. | Sooner than litigation, probably inexpensive. | Much less flexibility in tailoring options to household wants, not at all times appropriate for advanced circumstances. |
Collaborative Regulation | Dad and mom and their attorneys work collectively to achieve a settlement. | Concentrate on cooperation, probably less expensive than litigation. | Requires all events to be dedicated to the collaborative course of, is probably not appropriate for high-conflict conditions. |
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, securing full custody in Texas is a multifaceted course of demanding meticulous preparation, a profound understanding of authorized procedures, and the potential for each victories and setbacks. This information supplies a complete overview, nevertheless it’s essential to do not forget that authorized counsel is paramount in navigating the intricacies of household court docket. Bear in mind, every case is exclusive, and the journey to securing the perfect final result to your baby requires customized consideration and a eager consciousness of the emotional toll concerned.
Question Decision
What if my baby expresses a choice for residing with the opposite mother or father?
A decide will take into account the kid’s needs, nevertheless it’s not the only figuring out issue. The court docket will assess the kid’s maturity and understanding of the scenario, and weigh it towards the kid’s total greatest pursuits.
How lengthy does the method usually take?
The timeline varies vastly relying on the complexity of the case, the court docket’s backlog, and the willingness of each events to cooperate. It may vary from a number of months to a number of years.
What if I can not afford an legal professional?
Texas affords choices for authorized support, reminiscent of court-appointed attorneys or professional bono providers. Analysis these assets to discover your prospects.
Can I enchantment a custody determination?
Sure, however the grounds for enchantment are particular and should be primarily based on errors within the court docket’s process or proof. An legal professional can information you on potential enchantment avenues.