Ever wondered how high-stakes family law cases can sidestep the chaos and scrutiny of the public courtroom? What if the oldest form of alternative dispute resolution in Texas offered a hidden path to both privacy and faster justice?

In this episode, Judge Roy Ferguson, retired Texas District Judge and current private judge and arbitrator, sits down with attorney Holly Draper to unravel the world of private judging and arbitration in family law—shedding light on the little-known legal mechanisms that could change how complex cases are handled in Texas.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising legal history behind “special judging” and why it’s far from a new trend
• How high-profile (and everyday) clients are using private judges to keep sensitive disputes out of the spotlight
• Why private judging might save clients money, even with added costs
• The critical differences between arbitration and private judging—especially when it comes to appeals
• Essential advice for young family lawyers to thrive without burning out

Sometimes, a courtroom decision quietly rewrites the rules for thousands of Texas families—until a landmark case rips the lid off the status quo.

What does it mean for parental rights and protective orders when the Texas Supreme Court steps in?

In this episode, Holly Draper dives deep into Stary v. Ethridge—her recent Texas Supreme Court case that shakes up the standards for long-term protective orders and constitutional parental rights.

You’ll discover…

• Why “care, custody, and control” are three words every family lawyer—and parent—should know.
• How fast-tracked protective order hearings can short-circuit due process, and why that matters.
• The surprising burden of proof shift that changes the game for protective orders lasting over two years.
• Masterful behind-the-scenes strategy and suspenseful moments from the Supreme Court oral argument.
• Practical steps lawyers (and parents) must take now if they’re impacted by this bombshell ruling.

Going through a divorce or separation is never easy, especially when it comes to co-parenting. Imagine an app that can streamline communication, reduce conflicts, and serve as a reliable record in court.

In this episode, Rebecca Perra, Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator and Judicial and Legal Education Coordinator for OurFamilyWizard, delves into the ways this innovative tool can transform co-parenting for separated families.

You’ll discover:

• How an integrated co-parenting app can centralize communication and reduce court appearances.
• The role of AI in improving family communication and reducing negativity.
• How to ensure expense tracking and reimbursement are seamless and conflict-free.
• Why OurFamilyWizard’s calendar feature stands out over free alternatives.
• Tips on doing away with "he said, she said" in custody exchanges with GPS verified check-ins.

Unlock the secrets to mastering the art of evidence in family law cases!

In this episode, Spenser Housewright, a family law attorney at the Shapiro Law Firm, delves into the critical topic of evidence—how to get it in, how to keep it out, and its importance in winning a case.

You’ll discover…

• The surprising importance of knowing your judge's tendencies to sway your case's outcome.
• A sneak peek into personal business records and their underutilized power in family law.
• Why attorneys shouldn't overuse objections, and when exactly to make them count.
• The crucial role of business records affidavits and how to secure them.
• A proven strategy to not let non-responsive testimony derail your case.

Unlock the possibilities of AI in the legal field while overcoming the challenges of technology adoption that most attorneys face today…

But how can lawyers harness artificial intelligence to elevate their practice without succumbing to overwhelm or ethical pitfalls?

In this episode, Alex Shahrestani, managing partner of Promise Legal PLLC, delves deep into the integration of AI and law, offering innovative insights into navigating this technological terrain effectively.

You’ll discover:

• What AI really is and how it can transform legal practices.
• The importance of learning to draft effective prompts in AI chatbots.
• How attorneys can train AI to tailor solutions for their unique needs.
• The ethical concerns and privacy issues lawyers should be mindful of when using AI.
• Why big law firms might face challenges, and small firms rise, in the age of AI.

From Prosecution to Financial Planning—The Multifaceted Career of Guy Rodgers

In this episode, Guy Rodgers, the owner of Guy Rodgers Private Wealth Strategies, unravels his unique journey from being a family lawyer to becoming a seasoned financial advisor. Tune in to learn how he helps individuals and legal professionals navigate complex financial landscapes.

You’ll discover…

• What prompted Guy to transition from family law to financial advisor.
• How involving a financial advisor in divorce property discussions can significantly benefit your client.
• The significance of setting a revenue target and knowing your numbers as a law firm owner.
• Why creating an emergency fund is crucial for personal and business financial stability.
• Key travel hacks that can save you thousands on luxury trips.

Ever wondered how you can turn the tide on an unfavorable child custody evaluation or uncover the hidden layers of business valuations in family law? Join us as we dive deep into family law expert witness testimony with an industry expert.

In this episode, Greg Beane, a board-certified family law attorney at Webb Family Law, unveils the secrets to prepare for direct and cross-examination of expert witnesses in family law cases. This conversation promises to offer strategic insights and practical advice that every family attorney should know.

You’ll discover...

• The nuanced methods to challenge and win against negative child custody evaluations.
• The importance of choosing the right financial experts for your case.
• How to effectively handle cross-examinations to undermine the opposing expert's testimony.
• Key strategies for preparing your expert witnesses for direct examination in court.

Prosecutors spend far more time in the courtroom than most family lawyers, so what can we learn from a former prosecutor? Get ready for a deep dive into the strategic world of courtroom preparation and trial skills!

In this episode, Emily Doron, a seasoned attorney at The Draper Law Firm, unveils the secrets behind success in the courtroom, drawing on her rich experience in the DA's office.

You’ll discover…

• The three critical points Emily focuses on to win her cases.
• How to strategically prepare clients for the emotional rollercoaster of cross-examination.
• The art of handling exhibit selection for maximum courtroom impact.
• Why understanding judge preferences can change your courtroom strategy.
• The surprising differences between criminal and family law courtrooms that can sway a case.

Social media might be the secret weapon for your business, but are you utilizing it to its full potential? Discover how one lawyer turned her social media presence into a powerhouse for her law firm.

In this episode, Gianni Avalos, owner of Avalos Family Trial Attorneys, shares her innovative strategies in social media marketing, virtual business structuring, and niche marketing that revolutionized her practice.

You’ll discover:

• The surprising impact of removing text overlays from your videos.
• Why spontaneous content creation could be the game-changer you need.
• The magic behind TikTok’s new watermark-free video feature.
• How niche marketing can elevate your business to new heights.
• The secret payment structures that offer flexibility to clients and stability to the firm.

Ever wondered if close living arrangements could unintentionally lead to a common law marriage? Discover the nuances behind informal marriages, especially in the Lone Star State, and why it's a topic that has family lawyers on their toes.

In this episode, Brandi Crozier, attorney at The Draper Law Firm, uncovers the intricate world of common law marriage and its implications for couples in Texas. This deep dive will leave you with a better understanding of what it really means to be "married" in the eyes of the law.

You’ll discover…

• The three critical elements that define a common law marriage in Texas.
• Why an ordinary breakup could lead to complicated legal battles.
• The surprising factors courts consider when determining cohabitation and public representation.
• How different states' laws can complicate common law marriage claims.
• The essential steps lawyers must take when handling an informal marriage case.