Jon Michael Franks ATTORNEY - MEDIATOR COLLABORATIVE LAWYER

100% Local

Phone: 817-329-5573 FAX: 817-421-1078 Website: http://www.franksdivorcelaw.com/

Jon Michael Franks, in practice since 1966, was one of the first attorneys in Texas certified as a Specialist in Family Law. As a well-respected trial lawyer, his experience helped earn him the invitation to become a Fellow in the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. With additional specific training ranging from Collaborative Law, Family Law Mediation to asset discovery to custody cases, he is a genuine expert in Family Law.

"I work with my clients to determine exactly what they want to accomplish prior to planning a legal strategy. I am a good listener and very thorough with information gathering and case preparation. I don't like surprises. Each case is different and must be treated as such. The solution often includes creative approaches, collaboration, negotiations, mediation or arbitration as alternatives to litigation."

-Jon Michael Franks

When do you need a Family Law attorney? Over the last 25 years Family Law has become one of the most complex areas of legal specialization. Although many attorneys may be familiar with the territory, it can be complicated terrain and lawyers who specialize in Family Law are better equipped to handle its complexities. The following are kinds of matters that should be entrusted to an attorney with true expert knowledge of Family Law:

Divorce
Child custody
Child support
Modification of custody and child support
Pre-Marital agreements
Asset discovery and tracing assets
Characterization of community and separate assets
Paternity
Adoption

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How should I choose a Family Law attorney?

The most important factor in choosing an attorney can be expressed in one word: trust. Particularly in matters of Family Law, where emotions can often be intense and sometimes cloud the process, you need to be able to trust that your attorney will always keep your best interests in focus. When difficult decisions are combined with strong feelings, your most valuable asset can be an attorney whom you can trust to guide you wisely.

Part of trust is knowing that your attorney has the skills to be a qualified counsel. When choosing a Family Law attorney, it's important to seek someone with specialized knowledge in the area, such as Board Certification, specific training and experience.
Some firms and attorneys also have sub-specialties within Family Law. Finding someone with expertise in your particular situation is a good start.
Be aware that there are many different ways to settle a dispute – such as collaborative law, arbitration and mediation – and you should investigate your options. Some attorneys may have more experience in some of these areas, so try to find an attorney who matches the best option to your situation.
Communication is critical in Family Law. You should feel that you and your attorney are able to question each other and communicate openly. Your communication should begin immediately when seeking counsel; ask about a firm's experience and legal philosophy. Beyond their skills, you should be comfortable with how they will represent you. Open and frank discussion is the best way to find an attorney who will be a good match.
In the end, remember that you will be investing your trust and your resources in your attorney, and you should feel confident that they have the skills, energy, and commitment to repay that investment with the best possible guidance and representation. Don't decide until you find an attorney with whom you are truly comfortable.