Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC 2026-10-01T10:34:26Z https://www.lawjdp.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1504558/2022/09/cropped-siteicon-32x32.png On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Who gets the business? Property division 101 for business owners]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257602 2026-09-16T09:53:00Z 2026-09-16T09:53:00Z When a business is part of a marriage, separating its value can be more complicated than separating the couple's other assets. A company may have started with one spouse's money or idea but grown through years of work, investment and shared financial decisions. By the time a divorce begins, it may be difficult to draw a clean line between what existed before the marriage and what developed during it.

When can a business become part of the marital estate?

Texas presumes property acquired during marriage is community property. Property owned before marriage may qualify as separate property, as may certain gifts and inheritances. However, the timing of ownership does not necessarily resolve every issue involving a business. For example, one spouse may have started a company before marriage and continued operating it after the wedding. If the business later expanded through marital funds or the efforts of either spouse, the court may need to determine whether some of that growth relates to the community estate.

How can the court account for a business?

Property division does not necessarily require the court to sell a company or transfer part of the business itself. Instead, the court can consider the value of the community interest when dividing the overall estate. Several records may help establish the business's ownership, financial history and value:
  • Formation and ownership documents
  • Tax returns and financial statements
  • Business bank records
  • Compensation and distributions
  • Business debts and liabilities
  • Valuations or evidence of the company's value at different points in time
The court may also consider whether the business has commercial goodwill. Texas courts distinguish commercial goodwill, which can have transferable value, from personal goodwill based solely on an individual's reputation or skills.

Keeping the bigger picture in view

For business owners, property division can involve years of financial decisions and work that do not fit neatly into separate categories. Looking closely at the business's history can help clarify which interests belong in the community estate and how its value may factor into the divorce. Because those determinations can affect both the business and the division of other marital assets, business owners should consult a Texas family law attorney early in the process. An attorney can review the business's ownership and financial history, explain how Texas property division rules may apply and help identify the issues that may need to be addressed during the divorce. ]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[¿Te puedes divorciar en Texas si te casaste en otro país?]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257600 2026-09-15T23:37:49Z 2026-09-15T23:37:49Z Sí, puedes divorciarte en Texas aunque tu boda haya sido en otro país. Muchas personas piensan que necesitan regresar al lugar donde se casaron para terminar el matrimonio, pero eso es un mito común. El sistema legal de Texas reconoce las uniones celebradas en el extranjero y te permite cerrar ese capítulo aquí mismo.

Reconocimiento de bodas extranjeras en Texas

En Texas no existe un registro especial para anotar matrimonios que ocurrieron fuera de Estados Unidos (enlace en inglés). La ley estatal considera que una boda celebrada en el extranjero es válida siempre y cuando haya sido legal en el país donde se realizó. Mientras esa unión no viole las leyes locales, el estado la toma como auténtica. Por lo tanto, si tu matrimonio es válido allá, también lo es para los tribunales texanos.

Lo que necesitas para solicitar el divorcio

Para disolver tu matrimonio ante una corte local, el factor principal no es el lugar de tu boda, sino el lugar donde vives actualmente. Las leyes del estado exigen cumplir con ciertos tiempos de permanencia antes de entregar la petición inicial ante el juez. Debes cumplir con estos requisitos de tiempo y lugar:
  • Uno de los cónyuges debe haber vivido en Texas durante al menos 6 meses consecutivos.
  • Uno de los dos tiene que haber sido residente del condado donde presentará la demanda durante un mínimo de 90 días.
  • La solicitud se debe ingresar formalmente ante el Tribunal de Distrito o el Tribunal Familiar del condado correspondiente.
Cumplir con estos requisitos le otorga a la corte la autoridad legal para tramitar tu caso y tomar decisiones sobre tu situación civil.  Casarse en otro país no representa un obstáculo para comenzar un trámite de divorcio en Texas. Si tú o tu cónyuge cumplen con los meses de residencia requeridos, los tribunales locales tienen toda la facultad para ayudarte a resolver tu situación. Dar este paso puede traer mucha tranquilidad y disipar las dudas sobre tu futuro legal. Si tienes dudas sobre cómo tu historia cultural o migratoria impacta tu proceso, busca orientación legal confiable para avanzar con firmeza hacia tu nueva etapa.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Tips to protect your medical practice and reputation during divorce in Texas]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257547 2026-08-12T19:02:45Z 2026-08-12T19:02:45Z spend years building their medical practice and professional reputation. When facing divorce, protecting these assets becomes paramount — especially when discretion is essential to maintaining patient trust and professional standing.

Understanding community property in Texas

Texas is a community property state. This basically means that anything acquired during marriage is generally subject to division. However, your medical practice may have both separate and community property components. Understanding this distinction is critical to protecting what you have built. Property acquired before marriage or through inheritance typically remains separate property. If you established your practice before marriage or can trace portions of its value to premarital efforts, you may be able to shield those components from division.

Strategies to protect your practice

Consider these approaches to safeguard your medical practice during divorce proceedings:
  • Obtain a professional valuation from a qualified expert who understands medical practices and can distinguish between personal goodwill (your reputation and skills) and enterprise goodwill (the practice's transferable value)
  • Document separate property contributions including any premarital investments, inheritances or gifts used to fund or grow your practice
  • Review partnership agreements and corporate structures that may contain provisions limiting transferability of ownership interests
  • Consider structured settlements that allow you to retain full ownership while compensating your spouse through other marital assets
These strategies require careful documentation and expert testimony. Working with attorneys experienced in high-asset divorces involving medical professionals helps to better ensure you properly represent your interests.

Maintaining confidentiality throughout the process

For physicians, privacy is not just personal — it is professional. Public divorce proceedings can affect patient confidence and referral relationships. Texas law offers several options for maintaining discretion:
  • Mediation and collaborative divorce keep negotiations out of public courtrooms and allow you to control the narrative
  • Confidentiality agreements can be incorporated into settlement discussions to prevent disclosure of sensitive financial or personal information
  • Sealed court records may be available in limited circumstances when public access would cause harm
The key to a quiet divorce is early intervention and strategic planning. The longer disputes drag through the court system, the greater the risk of public exposure.

Moving forward with confidence

Your medical practice represents years of education, sacrifice and dedication. With proper legal guidance, you can navigate divorce while protecting both your professional assets and your reputation. Engaging experienced counsel early in the process provides the best opportunity for a favorable and discreet resolution that allows you to continue serving your patients without disruption.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[¿Cómo afecta la infidelidad la división de bienes en un divorcio en Texas?]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257546 2026-08-07T18:17:39Z 2026-08-07T18:17:39Z La propiedad comunitaria y el impacto del adulterio Durante el matrimonio en Texas, casi todo lo que compras o ganas pertenece a ambos bajo la regla de propiedad comunitaria, excepto las herencias o regalos individuales. Esta propiedad incluye:
  • Salarios ganados por cada uno
  • Casa familiar u otras propiedades
  • Beneficios de retiro
  • Cuentas de banco
  • Joyas
  • Vehículos
  • Bienes digitales
Sin embargo, la infidelidad permite solicitar un divorcio con culpa. Según el Código de Familia de Texas (Sección 6.003), el adulterio ocurre cuando una persona casada tiene relaciones sexuales voluntarias con alguien fuera del matrimonio. Si pruebas este engaño ante un tribunal de Dallas, el juez buscará un reparto justo y equitativo. Cuando la persona infiel malgasta fondos comunes en regalos, viajes u hoteles para su relación extramatrimonial, la corte analiza ese gasto. Para corregir el daño financiero, el juez puede otorgar una porción más grande de los bienes restantes al cónyuge inocente.

Cómo probar el adulterio

Probar el adulterio ante un juez exige evidencias claras, como estados de cuenta, mensajes, fotos, vídeos y recibos. Un abogado de derecho familiar en Dallas te ayuda a rastrear los fondos malgastados, presentar las pruebas correctamente y guiarte durante todo el proceso legal.La infidelidad altera de forma directa el resultado financiero de tu divorcio en Texas. Si enfrentas esta situación, reúne de inmediato todos tus registros financieros y agenda una consulta con un abogado local para analizar tus opciones legales.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Derechos de visita en Texas: planes de crianza para padres con turnos rotativos]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257544 2026-07-17T23:04:22Z 2026-07-17T23:04:22Z El calendario estándar y sus limitaciones El Calendario Estándar de Posesión (SPO) es el punto de partida habitual en Texas para determinar el tiempo de convivencia con los hijos. Según el Código de Familia de Texas, existe la presunción de que este calendario representa el tiempo mínimo razonable de convivencia. Este esquema está diseñado para familias con horarios de oficina tradicionales y no siempre refleja la realidad de quienes trabajan por turnos rotativos.

El derecho a solicitar un plan modificado

La ley permite a los jueces apartarse del SPO cuando el esquema estándar no sirve al bienestar del menor. La ley de Texas establece como política pública del estado que los menores tienen derecho a mantener un contacto frecuente y continuo con ambos padres, siempre que ello sea en su beneficio. Bajo ese principio, si su horario laboral cambia semana a semana, puede solicitar una Orden de Posesión Modificada. El objetivo no es penalizar el empleo, sino diseñar un plan que permita mantener el vínculo con los hijos sin afectar su estabilidad.

Herramientas de flexibilidad dentro del acuerdo

Un plan de crianza alternativo debe estar redactado con precisión para evitar conflictos futuros. Algunas cláusulas útiles incluyen:
  • Designación anticipada de fechas: el padre con turno rotativo comparte su calendario laboral con anticipación para acordar los días de visita del mes siguiente.
  • Compensación de días: si un turno coincide con un fin de semana asignado, el acuerdo puede prever días de recuperación durante la semana o en vacaciones escolares.
  • Ajuste de horarios de intercambio: coordinar los cambios directamente en la escuela o mediante aplicaciones de copaternidad para no interrumpir las rutinas del menor.
Cada una de estas cláusulas debe quedar redactada con claridad en el acuerdo formal para evitar interpretaciones distintas cuando surjan cambios de último momento.

Próximos pasos

Los acuerdos verbales rara vez funcionan cuando los horarios cambian constantemente. Si necesita diseñar o modificar un plan de crianza en Texas, un abogado de derecho familiar en Plano puede ayudarle a estructurar un acuerdo que proteja su tiempo con sus hijos y sea sostenible a largo plazo.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Is Texas a 50/50 divorce state?]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257545 2026-07-29T06:50:24Z 2026-06-29T06:49:58Z How community property works in Texas In general, property acquired by either spouse during the marriage is presumed to be community property. This can include:
  • Income earned during the marriage
  • Homes and other real estate purchased together
  • Retirement benefits earned during the marriage
  • Vehicles, investments, and bank accounts
  • Debts incurred while married
Property owned before the marriage, as well as certain gifts and inheritances, generally remains separate property as long as it has not been commingled with community assets.

Why a 50/50 split is not guaranteed

Texas law requires courts to divide community property in a manner that is just and right, not necessarily equal. While some divorces result in a nearly even division, judges may award one spouse a larger share when the circumstances warrant it. Factors that may influence property division include:
  • Each spouse's earning capacity
  • The size of each spouse's separate estate
  • Fault in the breakup of the marriage, when applicable
  • The needs of children from the marriage
  • The health, age, and financial circumstances of each spouse
Every divorce presents unique facts, so the outcome depends on the evidence presented to the court.

Separate property can become a disputed issue

One of the most common disputes involves determining whether an asset is community or separate property. For example, a home purchased before marriage may remain separate property, but if community funds were used to pay the mortgage or improve the property, additional legal issues may arise. Financial records, deeds, bank statements, and other documentation often play an important role in proving ownership and tracing separate assets.

Protect your financial future

Property division can affect your finances for years after your divorce becomes final. Before agreeing to a settlement, it is important to understand the value of your assets, your potential rights, and the long-term consequences of any proposed division. An experienced Texas family law attorney can help identify community and separate property, evaluate settlement options, and advocate for a property division that protects your financial interests.

Get legal guidance before making important decisions

Although Texas follows community property laws, that does not mean every divorce ends with a 50/50 split. Courts focus on reaching a fair result based on the unique circumstances of each marriage. If you are preparing for a divorce in Texas, speaking with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and develop a strategy to protect your property, your rights, and your future.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Divorcio “gris” en Dallas: Los desafíos financieros de separarse después de los 50 años]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257511 2026-06-19T21:08:20Z 2026-06-19T21:08:20Z El laberinto de las cuentas de jubilación En un matrimonio de larga duración, los fondos de retiro suelen ser el activo más valioso de la sociedad conyugal. Aunque Texas es un estado de propiedad comunitaria, no exige una división matemática exacta del 50/50. En cambio, el juez distribuirá los bienes de la manera que considere justa y equitativa, tomando en cuenta la edad, la salud y la capacidad económica de cada cónyuge. La forma en que se dividen estos fondos depende del tipo de cuenta:
  • Planes de jubilación calificados (401(k), 403(b) y pensiones): Para dividir estos fondos sin incurrir en penalidades fiscales ni impuestos por retiro anticipado, el tribunal de familia debe emitir una Orden de Relaciones Domésticas Calificada (QDRO, enlace en inglés) de forma paralela al decreto de divorcio.
  • Cuentas IRA: Las IRA no se dividen mediante una QDRO. En su lugar, se transfieren a través de un mecanismo de transferencia directa autorizado por el decreto de divorcio, libre de penalidades bajo el Código de Rentas Internas. Confundir ambos procesos puede generar consecuencias fiscales severas.
Comprender la diferencia entre estos instrumentos es fundamental antes de llegar a cualquier acuerdo patrimonial.

El impacto en la vivienda, el seguro social y la cobertura médica

La residencia familiar en distritos de alto valor del norte de Texas puede convertirse en una carga económica si un adulto mayor con ingresos fijos asume individualmente los impuestos sobre la propiedad, el seguro y el mantenimiento. En muchos casos, la venta consensuada del inmueble es la opción más conveniente desde el punto de vista financiero. Además, existen factores federales importantes que deben considerarse:
  • Seguro social: Si su matrimonio duró 10 años o más, usted puede tener derecho a reclamar beneficios basados en el historial de ingresos de su ex cónyuge (hasta un 50% de su beneficio completo de jubilación) siempre que permanezca soltero y sea mayor de 62 años. Este beneficio no reduce lo que su ex cónyuge recibe de la Administración del Seguro Social.
  • Seguro médico: El decreto de divorcio lo eliminará de la póliza de salud de su cónyuge. Si aún no cumple 65 años para calificar para Medicare, deberá considerar un seguro privado o la cobertura de continuación COBRA, que para cónyuges divorciados puede extenderse hasta 36 meses, aunque generalmente representa un costo significativo.
Cada una de estas decisiones tiene consecuencias a largo plazo que van mucho más allá del proceso de divorcio en sí. Contar con el respaldo de un equipo legal con conocimientos de derecho familiar con experiencia en divorcios complejos es esencial para proteger su patrimonio y asegurar la estabilidad financiera que necesita para esta etapa de su vida.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[What factors can affect property division during a Texas divorce?]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257508 2026-06-18T10:51:33Z 2026-06-18T10:51:33Z How does community property law work? Texas uses community property laws. In most cases, both spouses share ownership of assets acquired during the marriage. However, the court aims for a "just and right" division rather than a simple 50-50 split. This distinction matters because judges have discretion to consider various circumstances when dividing property. Separate property refers to what was owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritances. It generally remains with its original owner. Judges can divide property in different ways. They look at each spouse's situation and the needs of any children before making a decision. This flexibility allows judges to account for the unique circumstances of each case rather than applying a rigid formula.

What role does fault play in division?

Texas allows no-fault divorce, but a spouse's actions can still affect property division. If one spouse commits adultery or treats the other spouse cruelly, the judge may award more marital property to the other spouse. The judge will weigh these factors alongside others to determine what seems fair given the specific situation. Judges also watch for fraud on the community. This occurs when one spouse hides, wastes or destroys marital assets. If the court finds fraud, it may give the other spouse a larger share of the remaining property.

Which financial factors should you consider?

Judges consider how much income each spouse can earn. If one spouse has a much higher earning capacity or education level, the judge may adjust the property division. The court may also consider each spouse's financial needs, health conditions and age. For example, if one spouse has significant medical expenses or a limited ability to earn income, they might receive a larger share of the marital assets.

How do children impact the outcome?

If children are involved, judges focus on their best interests. A judge may give the family home to the parent who has primary custody so the children can keep a stable living environment. Child-related expenses and the financial resources needed to care for the children can influence how assets are distributed between both parties. The length of your marriage, the size of your estate and whether you have a prenuptial agreement also factor into the equation. Each divorce case presents unique circumstances, and courts examine all relevant details before making decisions.

Protecting your share during a divorce

Knowing what affects property division can help you approach your Texas divorce with greater confidence. By recognizing how courts evaluate assets, financial circumstances and family needs, you can make informed decisions throughout the process. Careful preparation allows you to protect your interests and work toward a fair outcome that supports your future.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Why should you protect your privacy during a Texas divorce?]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257503 2026-05-21T09:49:45Z 2026-05-21T09:48:44Z Why privacy matters in divorce proceedings When you file for divorce in Texas, many court documents become part of the public record. This means anyone can potentially access details about your finances, assets and personal matters. This information can spread quickly and remain online indefinitely. Protecting your privacy can help you maintain professional relationships and personal dignity. Employers, colleagues and even potential future partners might search for information about you online. You may not want sensitive details from your divorce appearing in those searches. Additionally, keeping financial information private can prevent identity theft. It can also protect your credit standing. Children are another critical consideration. When you keep divorce details confidential, you shield your kids from unnecessary embarrassment or emotional harm. They should not have to worry about classmates or teachers discovering intimate family matters.

Practical steps to maintain confidentiality

You may want to talk to your attorney about redacting sensitive data. This may include financial account numbers and child identification information, from public filings as required by Texas rules, rather than undergoing the complex and rare process of seeking a formal court order to seal the record. You might also want to be mindful of your social media presence. It might help to avoid posting about your divorce, your former spouse or any related matters online. Even seemingly innocent posts can be misinterpreted. They can also be used against you during proceedings. It might help to communicate carefully with friends and family. While you need support during this time, sharing too many details with too many people could increase the risk of information spreading. Choosing a small circle of trusted confidants could be beneficial. Remember that protecting your privacy as you navigate this life-changing transition is not about hiding. It is about maintaining control over your personal narrative and safeguarding your future. Taking these precautions now can save you from complications down the road.]]> On Behalf of Law Office of Jasmit Dhaliwal PLLC <![CDATA[Deudas y divorcio: Qué hacer si mi ex no paga una deuda en Texas]]> https://www.lawjdp.com/?p=257502 2026-05-12T21:16:24Z 2026-05-12T21:15:50Z Las deudas conjuntas tras el divorcio Usted debe entender que una sentencia de divorcio no cancela los contratos que firmó con los bancos. Si su nombre aparece en una hipoteca o tarjeta de crédito, el banco todavía le pedirá el pago a usted (enlace en inglés). El banco no tiene la obligación de seguir las órdenes del juez de familia porque el banco no firmó el papel del divorcio. Si su ex pareja no paga, su puntaje de crédito sufrirá las consecuencias.

Herramientas legales para defenderse

Si su ex deja de pagar una deuda conjunta, usted puede defenderse. El primer paso es presentar una "moción de ejecución" (enforcement order) ante el tribunal de familia. Con este documento, usted le avisa al juez que su ex pareja no cumplió con las órdenes. El juez puede declarar a la otra persona en "desacato", lo que permite aplicar sanciones para intentar que cumpla.

Lo que la ley de Texas permite y lo que no

Es importante saber que, en Texas, la ley prohíbe quitarle el sueldo (embargo de salario) a su ex pareja para pagar deudas del divorcio. Tampoco es común que alguien vaya a la cárcel solo por no pagar una deuda de dinero. Sin embargo, el juez puede ordenar multas o que le devuelvan el dinero que usted gastó para cubrir la deuda de su ex o usar otras medidas para que se respete la orden.

Por qué necesita ayuda legal rápido

Contratar a un abogado de derecho familiar de Texas es fundamental porque estos procesos son técnicos. Además, en Texas el tiempo es muy corto: generalmente, solo tiene dos años después de que el divorcio termina para pedirle al juez que obligue a su ex a cumplir con el reparto de bienes y deudas. Un abogado protegerá sus derechos y evitará que usted cargue con deudas que no le corresponden. Actúe pronto para proteger su futuro financiero.]]>