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Texas Family Law Appeals

At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our legal experts help clients across Texas with family law appeals — including divorce appeals, child custody appeals, and support order appeals. When a family court decision doesn’t reflect the facts or the law, you have the right to appeal your case and seek a fair outcome.

We understand how personal and emotional these cases can be. A single ruling can impact your family, finances, and future — but an appeal gives you the opportunity to correct mistakes and pursue justice through the Texas court system.

What Is a Family Law Appeal?

A family law appeal allows you to ask a higher court to review your case after a final judgment has been made. It’s not a new trial — you can’t add new witnesses or evidence — but it is an opportunity to correct legal or procedural mistakes that may have affected the outcome.

During an appeal, the court reviews:

The trial record, including all evidence and testimony
The judge’s interpretation of Texas law
Whether proper procedure was followed during trial

If errors are found, the appeals court may:

Reverse the trial court’s decision
Modify the judgment
Send the case back for a new hearing

Because appeals involve strict deadlines and precise procedures, even small errors in filing or formatting can have major consequences. Our legal experts handle every step carefully to give your case the best chance of success.

Common Reasons for Family Law Appeals

Not every unfavorable outcome qualifies for an appeal. To win, your case must show that the trial court made a significant legal or procedural error that impacted the result.

Common reasons to file an appeal include:

Misapplication of the Texas Family Code - The court applied the wrong law or misunderstood a statute.
Abuse of discretion - The judge’s decision went beyond reasonable limits, especially in custody or property rulings.
Improper evidence handling - Key evidence was wrongly admitted or excluded.
Calculation mistakes - Income, assets, or support amounts were miscalculated.
Due process violations - One party wasn’t given a fair opportunity to present their case.

Our legal experts will review your trial record in detail to determine if a valid basis for appeal exists — and what kind of outcome might be possible.

Family Law Appeals You Can Trust

Our Texas family law appeals attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and your family’s future. We provide knowledgeable, compassionate, and results-driven legal representation for clients seeking to challenge unfair court decisions.

When it comes to appealing a family court ruling, trust a law firm that understands the complexities of Texas family law and knows how to fight for justice.

To get started on your family law appeal, call us today at (281) 810-9760 or fill out our contact form online.

The Family Law Appeals Process in Texas

The appeals process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps makes it more manageable. Here’s what typically happens:

File the Notice of Appeal – Usually within 30 days of the final judgment. Missing this deadline forfeits your right to appeal.
Prepare the Record – The trial transcripts, pleadings, and evidence are compiled for appellate review.
Write the Briefs – Each side submits written arguments explaining errors and proposed corrections.
Oral Argument – Some cases include a short hearing where each side answers judges’ questions.
Decision – The appeals court may affirm, reverse, modify, or remand the ruling.

Most appeals take six months to a year, depending on complexity and the court’s schedule.

Should You File an Appeal?

Not every family law case should go to the appeals court. Before filing, it’s important to weigh your goals, your chances, and the cost of continuing.

Our legal experts will help you consider:

- Is there a clear legal error? We’ll review your entire case to find mistakes that could justify an appeal.
- What outcome do you want? Do you want a full reversal, or would a modification of the order meet your needs?
- Are faster or simpler options available?
  If your circumstances have changed — income, custody schedule, or living arrangements — you might qualify for a post-judgment modification instead.
  Learn more about how a Modification of Court Orders can update custody, visitation, or support when life circumstances change.
- What’s the investment? Appeals can take time and resources. Our team helps you decide whether it’s truly worth pursuing.

At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, our goal is to provide clarity — not pressure — so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your family.

Examples of Family Law Appeals in Texas

Family law appeals can arise from nearly any type of dispute. Here are a few examples of when an appeal may help:

Custody and Conservatorship

If the court limited your parental rights without proper evidence, the appeals court can reverse that ruling and restore a fair custody arrangement.

Property Division

When community property is misclassified as separate or divided unfairly, an appeal can correct the judgment and ensure an equitable split.

Child Support and Spousal Maintenance

Appeals can fix calculation errors, incorrect income assessments, or orders that fail to follow Texas support guidelines.

Enforcement and Contempt

If a contempt finding or enforcement order was entered without following due process, an appeal can overturn it.

Each case is unique, but these examples show how appeals protect families from judicial mistakes that can have lasting consequences.

Emotional and Practical Support During the Appeals Process

Family law appeals often take place after a stressful trial. It’s normal to feel discouraged or uncertain. Our team is here to support you with compassion, clear communication, and honest expectations.

We’ll explain each step, keep you updated on progress, and help you prepare for possible outcomes — so you can move forward with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law Appeals

How long do I have to file an appeal?

Most family law appeals must be filed within 30 days after the final order. Some post-trial motions can extend this deadline, but time is limited.

Can I submit new evidence?

Most family law appeals must be filed within 30 days after the final order. Some post-trial motions can extend this deadline, but time is limited.

How long does the process take?

Typically 6–12 months, depending on the complexity and the court’s caseload.

Do I have to keep following my current court orders?

Yes. Orders remain in effect during the appeal unless a stay is granted by the court.

What happens if I win my appeal?

The appeals court can reverse or modify the decision or send your case back for a new hearing.

What if I decide not to appeal?

If your circumstances have changed, you might qualify for a Modification of Orders instead. Visit our Modification of Court Orders page to see how this process can help you adjust child custody, visitation, or support without filing an appeal.

Related Practice Areas

Contact Our Legal Expert for a Free Consultation

If you believe your family law ruling was wrong or unfair, don’t wait — the deadline to appeal is short.
Our team at the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC offers a free consultation to review your situation, discuss appeal options, and explore whether a modification may be better suited for your needs.

👉 Contact our legal expert today to take the first step toward protecting your rights and moving your family forward.

Your consultation is completely confidential and carries no obligation.

Our Family Law Appeal Attorneys

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Trusted Family Law Appeals Attorneys in Houston

When a family court decision doesn’t go your way, it can feel frustrating and unfair. You may be uncertain about what comes next — but you don’t have to face the appeals process alone.

At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, our experienced appellate attorneys provide trusted guidance and strategic representation in family law appeals. Whether your case involves custody and conservatorship, property division, child support or spousal maintenance, or enforcement and contempt, we have the knowledge, insight, and courtroom experience to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.

Our team is committed to helping you understand your options and navigate every stage of the appellate process with confidence and clarity.

Contact us today — our team is available 24/7 to discuss your case and help you take the next step toward a fair resolution.