Call

Houston Family Law Attorneys

Board-Certified Family Law
Representation in Houston, TX

Family law issues often arise during moments of transition, when important decisions must be made about your family, your finances, and your future. Whether you are considering divorce, addressing custody matters, or dealing with post-decree issues, having a clear plan can make a meaningful difference in how the process unfolds. Our Houston family law attorneys help make sense of these situations so you can move forward with confidence.

At  Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers, we approach family law matters with strategy and preparation. Our team focuses on organizing each case, identifying priorities early, and building a path that reflects your circumstances. If you are facing a family law issue, you can  contact us online or call (713) 229-8855 to schedule a case evaluation and discuss your next steps.

 

Call (713) 229-8855 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a family law attorney today. We fight for you. We fight for what’s important.

Houston Family Lawyers

Awards & Recognitions

Why Choose Skillern Firm as Your Houston Family Lawyer?

The Family Law Firm Houston Counts On

Welcome To Skillern Firm — Houston’s Trusted Family Law Experts
The Family Law Firm Houston Counts On
  • Both Partners Are Board Certified in Family Law — Matthew Skillern and Caitlin Thorpe are certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization , a credential held by only 1% of Texas family lawyers.
  • 7 Attorneys Named to Super Lawyers — A peer-driven distinction reserved for the top 5% of attorneys in the state.
  • Perfect 10.0 Avvo Ratings — Both Matthew Skillern and Caitlin Thorpe hold the highest possible rating for experience, industry recognition, and professional conduct.
  • Named Best Divorce Lawyers in Houston by Expertise.com and recognized by Texas Monthly as a Top Attorney in Texas.
  • Caitlin Thorpe Awarded Top 10 Family Law Female Attorney in Texas (2025) by Attorney & Practice Magazine — on top of earning Houston’s Top Lawyers honors in 2015 and 2017.
  • 30+ Legal Professionals, 100% Focused on Family Law — Divorce, custody, child support, property division, enforcement, and protective orders. That’s all we do.
  • Built for Complex Cases — High-net-worth divorce, contested custody, abusive or narcissistic spouses, and international family law. We don’t shy away from a fight.

Let our top-rated Houston family law firm fight for you and your family – call (713) 229-8855

Our Practice Areas

Parent's Rights

Divorce

Divorce cases involve resolving financial issues, parenting arrangements, and long-term planning decisions. Our Houston family law attorneys help structure the process, address disputes, and guide each step so the final outcome reflects your priorities and circumstances while preparing for future financial and personal stability. In contested divorce matters, early preparation and a clear legal strategy are particularly important given the number of issues that may need to be resolved before a final decree can be entered.

Custody

Child Custody

Child custody matters focus on joint managing conservatorship, parenting schedules, and decision-making responsibilities. Under Texas Family Code § 153.002, family courts evaluate what supports the child’s best interests, while each parent’s role and involvement are carefully considered throughout the process to create a consistent and workable arrangement. Disputes may arise over how rights and duties are allocated within a joint managing conservatorship framework, and addressing those details carefully can make a significant difference in how the arrangement functions day to day.

Property Division

Property division requires identifying and allocating community and separate assets. Courts divide marital property in a manner considered just and right, which may involve financial analysis, valuation, and careful review of ownership and documentation to ensure an equitable distribution. Disputes often arise over how certain assets are classified and valued, making thorough preparation and documentation an important part of addressing property division effectively.

High-Asset Divorce

High-Net-Worth Divorce

High-net-worth divorce cases involve complicated financial structures, including business interests, investments, and real estate holdings. These matters require detailed evaluation, asset tracing, and strategic planning to address both immediate and long-term financial considerations while protecting high-value interests. These cases often benefit from early engagement with financial professionals who can assist with valuation and documentation before the division process begins.

Enforcement

Enforcement

Enforcement actions address situations in which a party fails to comply with a court order. This may involve parenting schedules, financial obligations, or property terms, and requires legal steps to restore compliance and ensure orders are followed consistently and effectively moving forward. Courts take non-compliance seriously, and documenting violations thoroughly is an important part of pursuing enforcement successfully.

Modification

Modifications

Under Texas Family Code § 156.101, modifications allow existing court orders to be updated when circumstances change. This may include adjustments to custody arrangements or financial responsibilities, provided the legal standard for modification is met, and the change supports the child’s needs and reflects current family dynamics. A modification requires demonstrating that a material and substantial change has occurred since the prior order was entered, not simply a preference for a different arrangement.

Client Reviews

Meet Our Team

Serving Clients Across Greater Houston, TX

What Strong Family Law Strategy Looks Like

At Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers, we believe family law cases are rarely resolved by reacting to each issue as it arises. Our approach is built around getting ahead of problems before they develop. That means organizing information early, identifying priorities before key decisions are made, and understanding how each step influences the next.

A structured approach allows for better preparation during negotiations and a more effective presentation if court involvement becomes necessary. This includes anticipating potential challenges, evaluating options before responding, and maintaining consistency throughout the process.

Our strategy at every stage involves:

  • Preparation: Organizing documents and facts before issues escalate.
  • Positioning: Presenting information in a way that supports your long-term goals.
  • Consistency: Maintaining a clear, unified approach throughout the case.
  • Foresight: Anticipating how today’s decisions will affect future outcomes.

When decisions are made with long-term impact in mind, unnecessary setbacks are easier to avoid, and the case stays moving in a productive direction. That is what preparation-first representation looks like in practice.

conflicts Image

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Houston

What Does a Houston Family Law Attorney Do?

Our Houston family law attorneys handle legal matters involving divorce, custody, property division, enforcement, and modifications. Their role is to guide the process, present your position clearly, and help ensure that legal decisions align with your rights and responsibilities. Beyond courtroom appearances, this includes reviewing documentation, advising on strategy, and managing communications so that each step in the case is handled with preparation and purpose.

How Does the Divorce Process Work, and How Log Will It Take?

Every divorce is different, much like the people involved. Factors such as the complexity of your assets, whether children are involved, and the level of cooperation between both parties can significantly impact the timeline. Typically, divorces in Texas can range from a few months for no-fault divorce cases to over a year for more complicated situations.

It’s not just about legal steps. The divorce process involves navigating both legal and emotional challenges while making life-changing decisions about your future. A compassionate and experienced family law attorney in Houston can help you understand your rights and make informed choices at every stage.

To provide clarity, here are the stages of a divorce:

  • Filing the petition. The divorce process begins with one spouse filing a petition for divorce.
  • Serving the petition. The other spouse is formally notified of the divorce proceedings.
  • Temporary orders. If necessary, the court may issue temporary orders addressing child custody, child supportspousal maintenance, or property use during the divorce.
  • Discovery process. This stage involves gathering information about finances, assets, and other relevant details.
  • Negotiation or mediation. Many divorces are resolved through negotiation or mediation to avoid a trial.
  • Final decree. Once agreements are reached, or a court decision is made, the final divorce decree is issued.

We aim to minimize delays by prioritizing clear communication and maintaining an efficient approach to each step of the process. This helps your case stay on track so you can move forward with confidence.

How Much Will This Process Cost?

Transparency is key when it comes to legal costs. The total cost of your case depends on several factors, including:

  • The complexity of your situation.
  • The level of attorney involvement required.
  • Whether the case is resolved through negotiation or proceeds to court.

As a trusted family law firm in Houston, we provide a detailed estimate upfront and keep you informed of any changes throughout the process. We focus on delivering value, not just minimizing costs. Beyond legal representation, we aim to save you time, reduce stress, and help you avoid unnecessary expenses wherever possible.

To help control costs, we explore financially efficient solutions like mediation or collaborative divorce. These alternatives can help lower expenses compared to litigation while still achieving favorable outcomes.

What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided in Family Law Matters?

Family law cases often involve stress and uncertainty, which can lead to decisions that create additional challenges later. Avoiding certain missteps can help keep the process more manageable and reduce the likelihood of ongoing disputes.

Common mistakes include:

  • Informal agreements: Relying on verbal arrangements that are not enforceable.
  • Lack of documentation: Failing to keep records of important details.
  • Delayed action: Waiting too long to address changing circumstances.
  • Disorganized communication: Allowing confusion to develop between parties.

Contact Skillern Firm Today To Schedule A Consultation

Family law matters involve decisions that can shape your future in lasting ways. Taking a structured and strategic approach helps ensure that each step aligns with your goals and circumstances.

At Skillern Firm Divorce & Child Custody Lawyers , we focus on preparing cases with skill and purpose so you can move forward with confidence. To discuss your specific situation in a confidential consultation, contact us online or call (713) 229-8855. We have an after-hours answering service 24/7 so you can reach us any time.

Schedule A Consultation Today

Customized Representation Starts Here
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Skillern Firm at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Privacy Policy

we hold them accountable

© Copyright 2026 Skillern Firm. All Rights Reserved.