When facing complex family legal matters in San Antonio, Texas, finding the right attorney can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome. The Law Office of Steven C Benke has established itself as a leading family law practice in Bexar County, providing comprehensive legal services to families throughout South Texas for over two decades.

About Steven C. Benke, Attorney at Law

Steven C. Benke is a Board Certified Family Law Attorney with more than 20 years of dedicated experience in Texas family law. His extensive background includes representing clients in over 5,000 family law cases, making him one of the most experienced family attorneys in the San Antonio metropolitan area. This wealth of experience allows him to navigate even the most complex family legal situations with confidence and skill.

As a member of the Texas State Bar Association and the San Antonio Bar Association, Attorney Benke maintains the highest standards of professional conduct and stays current with evolving family law statutes and precedents. His board certification demonstrates his commitment to excellence and specialized knowledge in family law matters.

Comprehensive Family Law Services

The Law Office of Steven C. Benke provides a full spectrum of family law services designed to protect your interests and secure your family’s future. Their practice areas include:

Divorce and Legal Separation

Navigating divorce proceedings can be emotionally and financially challenging. The firm handles both contested and uncontested divorce cases, working diligently to protect clients’ assets, parental rights, and long-term interests. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, they strive to achieve fair and equitable resolutions.

Child Custody and Visitation

Child custody matters require careful attention to the best interests of the children involved. The office provides skilled representation in establishing custody arrangements, modifying existing orders, and enforcing court-mandated visitation schedules. They understand the importance of maintaining strong parent-child relationships while protecting children’s welfare.

Child and Spousal Support

Financial support obligations are critical components of many family law cases. The firm assists clients in establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support and spousal maintenance orders. They ensure that support calculations comply with Texas guidelines while considering each family’s unique circumstances.

Property Division

Texas is a community property state, making asset division a complex aspect of divorce proceedings. The Law Office of Steven C. Benke has extensive experience identifying, valuing, and dividing marital property, including real estate, business interests, retirement accounts, and other valuable assets.

Protective Orders

When domestic violence or harassment threatens family safety, swift legal action is essential. The firm assists clients in obtaining emergency protective orders and represents them in related court proceedings to ensure their protection and peace of mind.

Adoption Services

Creating families through adoption requires careful attention to legal requirements and procedures. The office guides clients through various types of adoption proceedings, ensuring compliance with Texas adoption laws and facilitating smooth transitions for all parties involved.

Why Choose the Law Office of Steven C. Benke?

Several factors distinguish this San Antonio family law practice from other attorneys in the region:

Extensive Experience: With over 5,000 cases handled, Attorney Benke brings unparalleled experience to each client’s situation. This background enables him to anticipate potential challenges and develop effective strategies for achieving favorable outcomes.

Board Certification: Board certification in family law demonstrates advanced knowledge and skills in this specialized area of practice. Only attorneys who meet strict requirements for experience, education, and peer review earn this distinction.

Personalized Attention: Each case receives individualized attention, with strategies tailored to the specific needs and goals of the client. The firm recognizes that no two family situations are identical and adjusts their approach accordingly.

Local Knowledge: Deep familiarity with Bexar County courts, judges, and procedures provides clients with valuable advantages in their cases. This local expertise can significantly impact case outcomes and timelines.

Comprehensive Approach: Rather than focusing on single issues, the firm takes a holistic view of each client’s situation, addressing all related legal matters to provide complete protection and peace of mind.

The San Antonio Family Law Landscape

San Antonio’s diverse population and growing economy create unique challenges and opportunities in family law practice. The Law Office of Steven C. Benke understands the local legal environment and maintains strong relationships within the San Antonio legal community. This knowledge proves invaluable when representing clients in complex family matters.

The firm’s location in the Mossrock area of San Antonio provides convenient access for clients throughout the metropolitan area while maintaining close proximity to the Bexar County courts where most family law matters are resolved.

Commitment to Client Success

The Law Office of Steven C. Benke is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for every client. This commitment extends beyond legal representation to include compassionate support during difficult personal transitions. The firm understands that family law matters often involve emotional stress and works to minimize additional burdens on clients while protecting their legal interests.

Their approach emphasizes clear communication, realistic expectations, and strategic planning to help clients make informed decisions about their cases. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom advocacy, they pursue resolutions that serve their clients’ long-term interests and family welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Practice Questions

Q: What types of cases does the Law Office of Steven C. Benke handle?

A: The firm specializes in all aspects of family law, including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, property division, protective orders, and adoption proceedings. They handle both contested and uncontested matters throughout Bexar County and South Texas.

Q: Is Steven C. Benke board certified in family law?

A: Yes, Attorney Benke is Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification requires extensive experience, continuing education, and peer review, demonstrating his expertise in family law matters.

Q: How long has the firm been practicing family law in San Antonio?

A: Steven C. Benke has been practicing family law for over 20 years, representing clients in more than 5,000 family law cases throughout his career.

Divorce and Separation

Q: How long does a divorce take in Texas?

A: Texas has a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the time divorce papers are filed. However, the actual timeline depends on various factors including case complexity, court schedules, and whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Simple uncontested cases may conclude shortly after the waiting period, while complex contested divorces can take several months or longer.

Q: What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

A: An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all major issues including property division, child custody, and support. A contested divorce involves disagreements that require court intervention or negotiation to resolve. Uncontested divorces are typically faster and less expensive.

Q: How is property divided in a Texas divorce?

A: Texas is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during marriage are generally divided equally between spouses. However, courts consider various factors when determining what constitutes a “just and right” division, including each spouse’s earning capacity, separate property, and contributions to the marriage.

Child Custody and Support

Q: What factors do Texas courts consider in child custody decisions?

A: Texas courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making custody determinations. Factors include each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, the child’s emotional and physical needs, existing parent-child relationships, and the child’s preferences (depending on age and maturity).

Q: Can child custody orders be modified?

A: Yes, child custody orders can be modified when there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests. This might include relocation, changes in living situations, or significant changes in a parent’s circumstances.

Q: How is child support calculated in Texas?

A: Texas uses statutory guidelines based on the paying parent’s net monthly income. The percentage varies based on the number of children: 20% for one child, 25% for two children, 30% for three children, and so on. Courts may deviate from guidelines in certain circumstances.

Legal Process and Fees

Q: Do you offer free consultations?

A: Contact the Law Office of Steven C. Benke directly to inquire about consultation policies and fees. Many family law attorneys offer initial consultations to discuss your case and explain their services.

Q: What should I bring to my first consultation?

A: Bring any relevant documents including marriage certificates, financial records, existing court orders, correspondence with your spouse or their attorney, and a list of questions about your situation. This information helps the attorney better understand your case.

Q: How are attorney fees structured for family law cases?

A: Fee structures vary depending on the type of case and services needed. Some matters are handled on an hourly basis, while others may involve flat fees. During your consultation, the attorney will explain the fee structure that applies to your specific situation.

Emergency Situations

Q: What should I do if I need immediate protection from domestic violence?

A: If you are in immediate danger, contact 911. For legal protection, you can seek an emergency protective order through the courts. The Law Office of Steven C. Benke can assist with obtaining protective orders and related legal proceedings to ensure your safety.

Q: Can I get temporary custody or support orders before my divorce is final?

A: Yes, Texas courts can issue temporary orders for child custody, support, and other matters while divorce proceedings are pending. These orders help provide stability and protection during the legal process.

Adoption and Other Services

Q: What types of adoption does the firm handle?

A: The office assists with various types of adoption including stepparent adoptions, relative adoptions, and agency adoptions. Each type has specific legal requirements and procedures that must be followed.

Q: How long does the adoption process take?

A: The timeline varies significantly depending on the type of adoption and specific circumstances. Stepparent adoptions may be completed relatively quickly, while other types of adoption may take several months to over a year to complete.

Contact and Location

Q: Where is the Law Office of Steven C. Benke located?

A: The firm is located in San Antonio, Texas, in the Mossrock area, providing convenient access for clients throughout Bexar County and surrounding areas.

Q: Do you handle cases outside of San Antonio?

A: While the primary focus is on San Antonio and Bexar County, the firm may handle cases in surrounding areas of South Texas. Contact the office to discuss your specific location and legal needs.

Q: What is the best way to contact the office?

A: Contact information including phone numbers and office hours can be obtained through the firm’s official channels. They typically respond promptly to inquiries about potential cases and legal services.