Business Details
27 Years
experience
Trusted Dallas Family Law & Divorce Attorney
The Law Office of Michael P. Granata has provided dedicated family law representation in Dallas, Texas, since 1999. With over 25 years of experience, our firm specializes in divorce, child custody, paternity, and related legal matters, prioritizing personalized solutions for every client. We handle cases ranging from straightforward uncontested divorces to complex asset divisions, always advocating aggressively while emphasizing mediation when appropriate.Our practice philosophy centers on transparency, honesty, and client empowerment, ensuring informed decision-making throughout the legal process. We pride ourselves on deep familiarity with Dallas County Family District Courts and a commitment to protecting client interests in both litigation and negotiation settings.
Services
Divorce
Child Custody
Child Support
Paternity Testing
Asset Division
Protective Orders
Name Changes
Common Law Marriage Dissolution
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Over 25 years of focused family law experience in Dallas courts
- Handles both contested litigation and amicable divorce resolutions
- Personalized strategy development for complex asset divisions
- Proven track record with child custody and support determinations
- Direct attorney access with transparent case progress updates
What people say
Quick and smooth divorce
Compassionate and focused
Exceeded expectations
Laser-focused litigation strategy
Highly recommended
Services
Divorce Representation
Our Dallas divorce practice handles both contested and uncontested cases with strategic precision. We guide clients through property division, spousal support negotiations, and court proceedings while prioritizing their financial and emotional well-being. With deep knowledge of Texas community property laws, we protect client interests in complex asset divisions involving businesses, real estate, and retirement accounts. Our approach balances aggressive litigation readiness with cost-effective mediation solutions.
Child Custody
We advocate for favorable child custody arrangements under Texas' joint managing conservatorship framework. Our attorneys challenge inappropriate custody evaluations, develop enforceable possession schedules, and address relocation issues within Dallas County's geographic restrictions. With experience in high-conflict cases, we present compelling evidence regarding parental fitness and child welfare while preparing clients for court-ordered mediation processes.
Child Support
Our firm ensures accurate child support determinations following Texas' net income guidelines. We handle modification requests due to changed circumstances, enforce payment compliance through legal remedies, and address health insurance obligations. With understanding of Dallas County's enforcement mechanisms, we represent clients in disputes involving income characterization, expense allocations, and support arrears collection through wage garnishment or tax intercepts.
Paternity Actions
We file and defend paternity suits to establish legal parent-child relationships in contested cases. Our services include challenging presumed fatherhood claims, arranging DNA testing, and securing custody/support orders post-determination. With knowledge of Texas' 20-year statute of limitations, we represent mothers, alleged fathers, and government agencies in proceedings affecting parental rights and inheritance entitlements.
Protective Orders
Our team secures emergency protective orders for domestic violence victims while defending against false allegations. We navigate Dallas County's expedited hearing processes, present evidence of abuse patterns, and ensure order enforcement through law enforcement channels. The firm also handles modifications to existing orders and represents clients in contempt proceedings for violation disputes.
People
Michael P. Granata
Attorney at Law
Licensed attorney with 25+ years of family law experience in Dallas. Former securities industry professional offering unique financial insight in asset division cases. Specializes in custody disputes, court-appointed expert challenges, and complex divorce litigation. Member of State Bar of Texas Family Law Section and Dallas Bar Association.
Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Dallas?
Texas recognizes both fault-based (adultery, cruelty) and no-fault grounds. Most cases use 'insupportability' as the marriage is irretrievably broken. Our firm helps determine appropriate grounds based on case specifics.
How long does a Dallas County divorce take?
Minimum 60 days from filing. Contested cases average 2-8 months depending on complexity. We provide realistic timelines during initial consultations based on current court dockets and case factors.
How is child custody decided in Texas?
Courts prioritize the child's best interests through joint managing conservatorship. We advocate for favorable possession schedules considering parental involvement, home stability, and any abuse history.
What affects child support calculations?
Texas uses 20%-40% of the non-custodial parent's net income based on child count. We ensure accurate income assessments and challenge inappropriate deductions during support determinations.
Can I modify existing custody orders?
Yes, with significant changes like job relocation or parenting issues. We file modification petitions demonstrating altered circumstances affecting the child's best interests.
How are assets divided in Texas divorces?
Community property laws split marital assets equally. We protect separate property claims and employ financial experts for business valuations and complex asset distributions.
