Plano Family Law Appeals: Protect Your Appellate Rights
A family court decision in Plano can shape your future, but if that decision was made in error, it does not have to be the final word. Texas law allows you to challenge certain rulings through the family law appeals process, giving a higher court the opportunity to review your case and determine whether mistakes of law, procedural errors, or an abuse of discretion occurred.
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we represent individuals and families in Plano and across Collin County who need skilled appellate advocacy. Whether you are disputing a child custody ruling, challenging property division, or appealing an unfair divorce decree, our team is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the justice you deserve.
What Is a Family Law Appeal?
A family law appeal is not a retrial. Instead, the appellate court reviews the trial court’s record—transcripts, evidence, and rulings—to determine whether the judge applied Texas family law correctly and fairly. Unlike trial court, no new evidence is introduced. The focus is on whether the trial outcome was legally sound.
Common Reasons Plano Families Appeal
You may have grounds for appeal if:
- The trial judge misapplied Texas family law.
- Critical evidence was improperly admitted or excluded.
- Your rights were harmed by procedural mistakes.
- The decision was unsupported by the evidence presented.
Because these rulings can have long-term impacts on custody, financial security, and family relationships, working with an experienced Plano appellate lawyer is critical.
The Family Law Appeals Process in Plano
Family law appeals in Plano typically fall under the jurisdiction of the Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas. While every case is unique, the process generally includes:
- Filing the Notice of Appeal – Strict deadlines apply, usually within 30 days of the final judgment.
- Preparing the Record – Trial transcripts, court filings, and exhibits are compiled.
- Brief Writing – Our attorneys draft persuasive legal arguments explaining why the trial court’s ruling should be reversed, modified, or remanded.
- Oral Arguments – If granted, we present your case before the appellate judges.
- Appellate Decision – The court may affirm, reverse, remand, or modify the trial court’s order.
Types of Family Law Appeals We Handle in Plano
At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we handle a full range of family law appeals in Plano, including:
- Custody & Visitation Appeals – Correcting rulings on conservatorship, visitation, or parenting time that fail to reflect the child’s best interests or the law.
- Property Division Appeals – Challenging unfair or unlawful divisions of marital property under Texas community property rules.
- Spousal Support Appeals – Modifying or overturning maintenance orders that are excessive, insufficient, or improperly awarded.
- Child Support Appeals – Addressing miscalculations, guideline errors, or other mistakes in child support determinations.
- Divorce Decree Appeals – Correcting divorce orders containing legal mistakes or inequitable terms.
- Protective Order Appeals – Contesting the issuance or denial of protective orders when the ruling was not supported by evidence.
Enforcement & Contempt Appeals – Advocating for clients appealing enforcement actions or contempt findings related to family law orders.
Why Choose a Local Plano Family Law Appellate Attorney?
While family law appeals follow Texas law statewide, having an attorney who understands Plano courts, Collin County procedures, and the Fifth Court of Appeals provides a strategic edge. Local insight helps anticipate judicial approaches, understand opposing counsel tactics, and tailor appellate arguments effectively.
Protect Your Rights – Appeal With Confidence
A trial court’s decision may feel final, but in Texas, you have the right to seek appellate review. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we combine deep family law knowledge with meticulous appellate advocacy to give you the strongest chance at success.
Call us today at 469-484-7439 or complete our Contact Form to schedule a free consultation about your Plano family law appeal.