Harris County Family Law Appeals: Ensuring Fair Review
When a family court decision in Harris County does not accurately reflect the law, evidence, or fairness, your legal journey may not be over. In Texas, you have the right to challenge trial court rulings through the family law appeals process. An appeal provides an opportunity for a higher court to review your case for legal or procedural errors that may have impacted the outcome.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we represent clients throughout Harris County—including Houston, Cypress, Humble, Kingwood, and The Woodlands—in complex appellate matters. Our appellate attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for a more equitable resolution when trial results fall short.
What Is a Family Law Appeal in Texas?
A family law appeal is not a retrial. Instead, the appellate court reviews the trial court’s record to determine whether mistakes were made in applying the law or exercising discretion. New evidence is generally not presented.
Common reasons for filing an appeal include:
- Misinterpretation or misapplication of Texas family law
- Errors in admitting or excluding evidence
- Procedural mistakes that violated your rights
- Judgments not supported by the trial record
Because appeals are highly technical, having an experienced Harris County appellate lawyer is crucial.
The Family Law Appeals Process in Harris County
Every case is unique, but the Texas appellate process usually involves the following steps:
- Notice of Appeal – Must be filed within strict Texas deadlines (often 30 days from the trial court’s judgment).
- Record Preparation – Gathering trial transcripts, evidence, and court filings.
- Appellate Briefs – Written legal arguments explaining why the trial court ruling should be reversed, modified, or remanded.
- Oral Argument – In some cases, attorneys may present arguments directly to appellate judges.
- Decision Issued – The appellate court may affirm, reverse, or send the case back for further proceedings.
Types of Family Law Appeals We Handle in Harris County
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC has extensive experience handling a wide range of appellate matters, including:
- Custody & Visitation Appeals – Challenging conservatorship or possession orders that do not serve the child’s best interests.
- Property Division Appeals – Correcting unequal or unlawful distribution of marital assets and debts.
- Spousal Support Appeals – Addressing errors in spousal maintenance awards or denials.
- Child Support Appeals – Contesting miscalculations or misapplications of Texas child support guidelines.
- Divorce Order Appeals – Reviewing flawed or unfair divorce decree provisions.
- Protective Order Appeals – Overturning protective orders not supported by evidence or law.
- Enforcement & Contempt Appeals – Challenging improper contempt or enforcement rulings.
Why Choose a Harris County Appellate Lawyer?
While Texas appellate law applies statewide, local experience makes a difference. Our firm understands:
- The procedures of Harris County family courts
- The approaches of local judges and opposing counsel
- Strategic arguments most effective before appellate courts serving Harris County
This insight allows us to tailor appellate strategies to give you the strongest possible chance at success.
Take Action to Protect Your Rights
A trial court decision may feel final, but it doesn’t have to be. Through the appeals process, you may be able to correct errors and secure a more just outcome for yourself and your family.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we combine deep knowledge of Texas family law with precise appellate strategies to pursue favorable results for our Harris County clients.
Call 281-562-7344 today or reach out through our online contact form to schedule your free consultation about a family law appeal in Harris County.