Divorce, Family Law, and Wills Attorney

Our practice has been deeply rooted in the Amarillo community for a very long time, offering dedicated legal guidance to individuals and families across the region. Mark B. Fitzgerald has been acting as a dependable family law and wills attorney in Amarillo, TX since 1985. With over four decades of legal experience, our firm brings a wealth of seasoned knowledge to every single case we handle.

Over the years, we have built a strong reputation centered on attentive listening, strategic precision, and thorough advocacy. Our deep ties to the area mean we understand the unique needs of our local neighbors when they face critical legal moments. When you work with us, you are partnering with a professional who has spent decades navigating the local legal landscape to protect the interests of our community.

When you step into our office for an initial consultation, you can expect an environment where you feel completely heard, respected, and comfortable. We know that legal issues often surface during life's most stressful and challenging times, so we prioritize your emotional well-being from the moment you reach out. We do not rush through consultations or push quick fixes because we believe every client deserves undivided attention and tailored answers.

Whether you're looking for a custody lawyer or a wills attorney in Amarillo, TX, we will take as long as necessary to listen carefully to your story and understand your specific goals. We will look closely at the details of your situation, answer your burning questions, and outline the potential paths forward. Because we know some situations are urgent, we often have same-day consultations available so you can get the timely guidance you need without a stressful wait.

Filing for a divorce in the Lone Star State requires meeting specific residency timeframes before the court can officially accept your case. To file your paperwork, either you or your spouse must have lived continuously in the state of Texas for at least six months. Additionally, whoever files must have been a resident of the specific county where the petition is submitted for at least ninety days. These residency guidelines ensure that local family courts hold the proper authority to handle your case and legally dissolve the marriage.

Once those residency windows are met, the legal process begins by filing an official petition, which must then be formally shared with the other party. Texas law also enforces a mandatory sixty-day waiting period from the date of filing before any divorce can be finalized by a judge. During this waiting period, we work closely with you to negotiate agreements regarding property division and personal safety, aiming to reduce conflict and protect your long-term financial security.

A truly comprehensive estate plan goes far beyond just deciding who receives your property; it is about securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones from future complications. The foundation of a strong plan always includes a legally binding last will and testament to outline your final wishes clearly. Beyond a will, a complete plan incorporates a statutory durable power of attorney and a medical power of attorney, which appoint individuals you select to manage your financial and healthcare choices if you ever become unable to do so yourself.

Another vital piece is an advance healthcare directive, often called a living will, which states your specific preferences for end-of-life medical care. As a dependable wills attorney in Amarillo, TX, we carefully craft these documents to match your personal intentions while working to minimize future tax burdens and administrative headaches for your beneficiaries. Taking the time to establish these parameters now gives your family immense clarity and peace of mind when they need it most.