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— Lee Budner Bragg, who is board certified in family law and regularly tries complex divorce, custody, and enforcement cases, emphasizes preparation over theatrics. "Emergency hearings move fast," he says. "There is little room for error. You need to know exactly what relief you're asking for, why the law supports it, and how the evidence fits together." Judgment Matters More Than Speed Emergency filings are among the most consequential decisions made in a family law case. In some circumstances, swift court intervention is necessary to protect a child or preserve assets. In others, what feels urgent is better addressed through measured strategy rather than immediate litigation. Discerning the difference quickly and accurately is where experience matters most. "We are often called when situations feel unmanageable," Budner says. "The goal isn't to inflame the conflict. It's to stabilize it, protect what matters, and position the case for a durable resolution." Bragg echoes that restraint is often what separates effective advocacy from escalation. "Knowing what matters — and what doesn't — in that moment is essential," he says. When a crisis emerges, the instinct to act immediately is understandable. But not every urgent situation qualifies as a legal emergency, and missteps can be costly. An experienced family law attorney will rapidly assess: • Whether the facts meet the legal t h r e s h o l d f o r e m e r g e n c y r e l i e f . • W h a t e v i d e n c e i s r e q u i r e d , s u c h a s t e x t s , e m a i l s , f i n a n c i a l r e c o r d s , o r w i t n e s s s t a t e m e n t s . • How emergency action fits into the broader strategy of the case. Once that assessment is made, effective advocacy shifts to execution: preparing focused pleadings, assembling supporting evidence, and presenting a clear, credible request to the court. A Steady Hand When It Matters Most Emergency family law matters test more than legal skill — they test judgment. The right counsel brings calm to chaos, protecting what matters most while laying the groundwork for long-term stability. "When people come to us in crisis, they don't just need speed," Budner says. "They need clarity, control, and someone who can think clearly when everything feels unstable." When stakes are high and time is short, thoughtful legal strategy is not optional — it is essential. And having the right team, prepared to step in when stability is suddenly at risk, can make all the difference. Calabrese Budner 5944 Luther Lane, Ste 875 Dallas, TX 75225 Calabresebudner.com 214-939-3000 The goal isn't to inflame the conflict. It's to stabilize it, protect what matters, and position the case for a durable resolution." Lee Budner Derek Bragg 127