Dallas Family Law Firm
Strategic Advocacy for Complex Matters
Trial-Focused Advocacy for High-Conflict Divorce, Custody, and Financial Litigation in Dallas
Building a successful marriage and a happy family takes hard work. But even with the best intentions, dark clouds sometimes appear, and you need the help of an experienced family law attorney. Let Balekian Hayes, PLLC of Dallas, Texas, guide you through the stress and uncertainty of divorce, custody, and other child and family matters.
For more than two decades, the family law attorneys at Balekian Hayes have provided forward-thinking legal counsel and practical support to get you through difficult times and give you the confidence to begin anew.
Non-Combative, Trial-Ready Representation
Effective Courtroom Advocacy Begins Long Before the First Hearing
High-conflict divorce and custody litigation requires more than just negotiation skills. When custody battles escalate or complex financial issues arise, early litigation strategy becomes critical. Our firm prepares every case with the trial in mind — developing a solid litigation strategy, thorough financial analysis, and creating an evidentiary positioning from the outset. We represent business owners, professionals, and parents facing complex disputes where control of assets, reputation, and children are at stake.
When resolution is possible, we pursue it from a position of strength. When it is not, we are prepared to decisively handle your matter in court through tactical, not reactive, decision-making.
Clients turn to our firm when the stakes involve more than a settlement—when reputation, control of assets, and the future of their children require experienced trial counsel.
Good Morning Texas: What Families Should Know Before Divorce (by Balekian Hayes)
Watch our segment on Good Morning Texas covering things to consider if you’re thinking about getting a divorce in Dallas.
When family relationships face challenges that require legal intervention, you need experienced advocates who understand both the law and the emotional charge of the situation. At Balekian Hayes, PLLC, our Dallas family law attorneys have dedicated over two decades to helping clients through some of life’s most difficult transitions.
Family law involves some of the most personal and consequential legal matters you may encounter. Our team focuses exclusively on family law, so we can give your situation the attention it deserves. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with a family law attorney in Dallas.
Divorce Attorney
The legal aspects of a divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the emotional stress of ending a marriage. Our Dallas divorce attorneys will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and develop a strategy that aligns with your goals for the future. We handle all aspects of divorce proceedings, from initial filing to final decree, and we will fight to protect your rights.
Every divorce presents different challenges, and we tailor our approach accordingly. Some cases can be resolved through collaborative methods that minimize conflict and preserve relationships, particularly when children are involved. Others require more aggressive advocacy to protect your clients’ interests. Whatever your situation demands, our attorneys can adapt their strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
High-Net-Worth Divorce Attorney
High-asset divorces require the assistance of a legal professional with a particular set of skills and experience to address the financial issues that arise. Our attorneys can help you deal with:
- Business ownership interests: We can obtain fair valuations and address questions about ongoing involvement in family businesses.
- Retirement accounts and investments: Our team understands the tax implications and legal requirements for dividing these assets.
- Real estate portfolios: We can explain your options for keeping, selling, or dividing valuable properties.
- Hidden assets: When necessary, we can work with investigators to uncover assets that may have been concealed.
Complex Property Division
Texas follows community property laws, meaning most assets acquired during marriage belong equally to both spouses. However, applying these principles to complex asset portfolios requires careful analysis and strategic thinking. Our attorneys can help you understand which assets qualify as separate property versus community property. We will advocate for a division that serves your long-term interests.
We understand that property division isn’t just about dollars and cents. Family heirlooms, artwork, and other items with sentimental value deserve careful consideration. Our goal is to help you secure the assets that will provide financial security while preserving items that hold special meaning for you and your family.
Child Custody Attorney
When children are involved in family law matters, their well-being becomes the primary concern. Texas courts make custody decisions based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as each parent’s ability to provide stability, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own preferences when age-appropriate. Our child custody attorneys can help you present a compelling case that demonstrates your commitment to your children’s welfare.
Custody arrangements are about more than just determining where children will live. We can help you set up comprehensive parenting plans that address:
- Primary residence and visitation schedules
- Decision-making authority for education, healthcare, and other important matters
- Holiday and vacation arrangements
- Communication guidelines between parents
- Procedures for modifying agreements as children’s needs change
Our Dallas Family Law Attorneys
We are proud to introduce our legal team.
Kris Balekian Hayes
As our managing partner and founder, Kris Balekian Hayes brings exceptional credentials and experience to every case. She holds double board certification in both family law and child welfare law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has been recognized as one of the Best Attorneys in America. Her background includes experience in criminal law and civil litigation, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of legal strategy that benefits our family law clients.
Kris earned her law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law and holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration. She previously worked in the family violence section of the District Attorney’s office, giving her unique insight into protecting vulnerable family members. As an accredited mediator, she can help families resolve their conflicts through alternative dispute methods when appropriate.
John Withers Jr.
Partner John Withers Jr. brings a combination of family law knowledge and criminal defense experience to our team. He holds board certification in both family law and criminal law, allowing him to handle complex cases that involve overlapping legal issues. His background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the legal system operates and how to build compelling cases for our clients.
John’s military service as a JAG officer and his experience as a commercial theft prosecutor demonstrate his commitment to justice and his ability to handle high-stakes litigation.
Emory Osborn
Senior Associate Emory Osborn represents the next generation of family law advocates. Licensed in both Texas and Oklahoma, she combines academic excellence with practical experience gained through internships and positions focused on legal reform and client advocacy.
Emory’s educational background in sociology and human development gives her insight into family dynamics and child welfare issues. Her previous work with criminal justice reform organizations and child advocacy groups reflects her commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.
Why Choose Balekian Hayes, PLLC?
Balekian Hayes, PLLC is proud to be recognized among respected family law professionals in Dallas and throughout Texas. Our attorneys’ honors and affiliations include recognition in the 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Family Lawyers, The Best Lawyers in America® for 2026, and Super Lawyers, along with fellowship in the Texas Bar Foundation and membership in leading legal organizations such as the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, the State Bar of Texas Family Law Section, and the Dallas Women Lawyers Association. With double-board certification in Family Law and Child Welfare Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, our team brings trusted credentials, focused experience, and a deep commitment to helping families navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.
Our approach is about providing personalized attention while delivering results typically associated with larger firms. We intentionally limit our caseload to ensure that each client receives the focused attention their case deserves. This philosophy allows us to develop comprehensive strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and goals. We maintain transparent communication throughout the legal process, so that you can understand your options and make informed decisions about your future.
Contact Balekian Hayes, PLLC Today
Family law matters demand prompt attention and the guidance of an experienced legal professional. The sooner you connect with our team, the better we can protect your rights and help you plan for the next chapter of your life. Contact our Dallas family law attorneys today to set up a consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
Where We Serve
Nestled in the heart of North Texas, Dallas stands as a vibrant metropolis that beautifully melds rich historical tapestry with modern sophistication, making it an ideal locale for residents and businesses alike. As the economic and cultural hub of the region, Dallas offers a diverse array of experiences. From the bustling arts district, renowned for its museums and galleries, to the thriving culinary scene that boasts an eclectic mix of dining options that cater to every palate, there is something for everyone. The city’s robust economy is supported by a wide range of industries, including technology, financial services, and healthcare. For families and individuals navigating the complexities of family law in such a fast-paced setting, Balekian Hayes, PLLC stands as a beacon of expertise and support. Specializing in high-conflict, high-asset divorce and child custody cases, our firm is committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. In Dallas, a city known for its resilience and community spirit, Balekian Hayes, PLLC embodies these qualities by advocating for the best outcomes for our clients, ensuring they have the guidance and representation needed to move forward confidently. We’ve worked with clients from Highland Park, Lakewood, University Park, Park Cities, Preston Hollow, and more.