Cases & Cocktails

The Eggleston Law Firm
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Cases & Cocktails is your go-to weekly podcast for raw, real, and revealing conversations about family law. Hosted by Bryan & Janice Eggleston of The Eggleston Law Firm, this video and audio podcast brings you expert insights, firsthand experiences, and the untold stories behind high-stakes family law cases. From judges and attorneys to former clients and industry experts, Cases & Cocktails invites a diverse lineup of guests to break down complex legal battles, parental alienation, child custody disputes, and high-conflict divorces—all over a cocktail (or two). Whether you’re facing a legal challenge, working in the legal field, or just fascinated by the drama and dynamics of family law, this podcast serves up valuable insights with a personal touch. 🎙️ New episodes drop every week! Tune in, pour yourself a drink, and join the conversation.

  1. 9H AGO

    Online Safety, Devices, and Co-Parenting: Navigating Technology in Texas Custody Cases - Ep 67

    In Episode 67 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston discuss a growing challenge in modern Texas custody and co-parenting cases: how technology and personal devices affect parenting across two households.  From smartphones and tablets to messaging apps and location tracking, technology has created new layers of conflict for families navigating divorce and shared custody. What once might have been a simple parenting disagreement can quickly escalate when devices move between homes with different rules and expectations. The Challenge of Technology in Two Homes In many custody arrangements, children move between two households with different parenting styles. One parent may limit screen time or device access, while the other allows more freedom with electronics. That difference alone can create tension, particularly as children get older and begin pushing boundaries or comparing the rules in each household. Bryan explains that disputes frequently arise over issues such as: Who owns the deviceWho controls parental settingsWhether the device travels between homesHow much screen time is allowedWhether devices are used during parenting timeWhile these questions may seem small on the surface, they often reflect deeper co-parenting conflicts that already exist between the parents. When Devices Become Tools for Conflict Technology can also be misused in custody situations. In some cases, devices allow one parent to interfere with the other parent’s time. Bryan describes situations where a parent communicates with a child during the other parent’s possession and attempts to gather information about the household. In one example, a parent discovered that a child was being asked to investigate the other home and report back through a messaging feature hidden inside a mobile app.  What initially appears to be a simple electronics issue can actually reveal deeper problems involving boundaries, trust, and manipulation. Location Tracking and Digital Monitoring Another emerging issue involves location-tracking apps and device monitoring. Many smartphones and apps allow parents to see exactly where a child—or the device—is located. While these tools can provide safety benefits, they can also create problems when used to monitor the other parent’s activities or movements. In high-conflict custody cases, this type of digital oversight can escalate tensions and create additional disputes. Why Technology Disputes Often Reflect Bigger Problems Bryan and Janice emphasize that device conflicts are rarely about the electronics themselves. More often, they reveal unresolved co-parenting issues between the adults. Courts generally expect parents to make reasonable decisions during their own parenting time. When parents cannot agree on issues like device usage, communication, or digital boundaries, it may require legal guidance or carefully crafted court orders to avoid ongoing conflict. The Takeaway Technology has become a permanent part of children’s lives, and that reality brings new challenges to divorce and custody arrangements in Texas. Managing devices, parental controls, and digital communication requires cooperation between parents whenever possible. Without clear expectations and healthy communication, technology can easily become another battleground in an already difficult co-parenting relationship. As Bryan notes, the real issue is rarely the device itself—it’s how parents manage the broader co-parenting dynamic surrounding it.

    25 min

  2. MAR 14

    Financial Abuse in Marriage: Recognizing the Signs and Protecting Yourself in Divorce - Ep 66

    In Episode 66 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston tackle a serious topic that often appears in high-conflict divorce and custody cases: financial abuse. Over a simple pour of Weller bourbon, the discussion explores how financial control can serve as leverage in a relationship and how it can affect divorce litigation in Texas family court. While financial abuse is frequently misunderstood or misused as a buzzword, Bryan and Janice explain that it involves more than one spouse simply managing the household finances. Instead, it typically involves coercion, control, and restrictions on access to money that prevent the other partner from having independence or basic financial security. What Financial Abuse Can Look Like In many marriages, one spouse may naturally handle the budgeting, bill payments, or investments. That arrangement alone does not constitute financial abuse. However, true financial abuse often includes behaviors such as: Restricting access to bank accounts or financial informationRequiring a partner to ask for money for everyday expensesDemanding receipts for basic purchases like groceries or gasThreatening to withhold money during disagreementsUsing financial dependence to manipulate behaviorIn some situations, the controlling spouse may intentionally restrict access to funds to maintain power in the relationship. This can leave the other spouse feeling trapped, isolated, or unable to make independent decisions. Why Financial Abuse Can Be Difficult to Prove One of the challenges in family law litigation is proving financial abuse in court. Bryan explains that allegations alone are rarely enough. Courts require documentation and evidence to support claims of financial control or coercion. That evidence may come from bank records, financial statements, discovery responses, depositions, or other financial documentation. Because of this, individuals considering divorce are often encouraged to gather basic financial information early, including account names, financial institutions, and recent statements when possible. Having access to accurate financial records can make a significant difference when disputes arise. Financial Abuse Often Develops Slowly Like many forms of coercive control, financial abuse rarely appears overnight. It often develops gradually over time. What may begin as one partner simply “handling the finances” can evolve into a situation where the other partner has no visibility into the family’s financial situation and no independent access to money. By the time the issue becomes obvious, the affected spouse may already feel deeply dependent on the other partner for financial stability. Red Flags Bryan and Janice encourage people to pay attention to warning signs in their relationships, such as: Inability to access financial records or account balancesLack of transparency about income or spendingGatekeeping information about money or investmentsBeing discouraged from asking questions about financesThe Takeaway Financial abuse is a serious issue that can significantly complicate divorce and custody litigation in Texas. Recognizing the warning signs early and understanding how financial control operates within relationships can help individuals protect themselves and their families. As Bryan and Janice emphasize, awareness is key. Open communication about finances and access to basic financial information are essential components of a healthy partnership—and critical when navigating the legal process of divorce.

    24 min
  3. Life After Divorce: Co-Parenting, Letting Go & Protecting Your Child’s Emotional Health - Ep 65

    MAR 7

    Life After Divorce: Co-Parenting, Letting Go & Protecting Your Child’s Emotional Health - Ep 65

    In Episode 65 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston shift the focus from courtroom strategy to something equally important in Texas family law cases: what happens after the final orders are signed.  Over a Pear Ginger Highball, they discuss the reality many parents face once litigation ends—no more hearings, no more attorneys managing day-to-day conflict, and no more judge overseeing behavior. Just two parents, a court order, and children caught in the middle. The Work Doesn’t Stop After Final Orders Whether a case resolves through mediation or trial, final orders are not the finish line. They are the starting point of long-term co-parenting. High-conflict divorce cases often require months—or years—of intense litigation. Temporary orders calm the fire. Trial reopens old wounds. And once it is over, parents are left to navigate exchanges, school events, and daily parenting decisions without court supervision. Bryan explains that success after divorce begins during litigation. Managing expectations, setting realistic possession schedules, and choosing workable communication tools all determine how sustainable co-parenting will be once the case closes. Communication Matters More Than You Think One of the most common tools in post-divorce parenting is the use of a co-parenting communication app such as Our Family Wizard, Talking Parents, or AppClose. These platforms: Centralize communicationTrack reimbursementsStore calendars and school informationProvide tone monitoring featuresWhile less convenient than texting, they reduce confusion and create accountability. For high-conflict custody cases, that structure often prevents future litigation. Don’t Let Resentment Shape Your Parenting Divorce is traumatic. Trials can retraumatize parents by forcing them to relive mistakes, missteps, and painful allegations. But once the case is over, holding onto resentment harms more than the other parent—it harms your children. Children should never feel: Guilty for enjoying time with the other parentResponsible for a parent’s emotional stateTension during exchangesPressure to “choose sides”As Janice notes, even silent hostility is visible. Body language, tone, and disengagement communicate more than words ever could. Co-Parenting Is About Emotional Discipline You may not control the other parent’s behavior. But you control yours. That means: Sharing school and medical informationSupporting your child’s relationship with the other parentFollowing possession schedules consistentlyNot allowing old grievances to dictate new decisionsIt also means doing the personal work—therapy, coaching, or self-reflection—to process the grief of divorce. Bryan puts it plainly: you may have paid tens of thousands of dollars to finalize your divorce. Don’t let the other parent continue living “rent-free” in your head. The Takeaway Post-divorce success isn’t measured solely by custody percentages or courtroom outcomes. It’s measured by stability, emotional regulation, and your child’s ability to thrive in two homes. Litigation may end. Co-parenting does not. And the healthiest outcome—for both you and your children—requires letting go of resentment and choosing long-term peace over short-term vindication. Need Guidance on Custody, Co-Parenting, or Post-Divorce Conflict in Texas? The Eggleston Law Firm in Spicewood, Texas, helps parents navigate high-conflict custody cases, Standard Possession Orders, and long-term co-parenting strategies with clarity and preparation.

    23 min
  4. Spring Break, Standard Possession Orders & Key Summer Deadlines Every Texas Parent Should Know - Ep 64

    FEB 28

    Spring Break, Standard Possession Orders & Key Summer Deadlines Every Texas Parent Should Know - Ep 64

    In Episode 64 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston shift gears into a timely and practical discussion about spring break possession, Standard Possession Orders (SPO), and critical summer designation deadlines in Texas family law.  Over a festive “Spring Break Party Paloma” (tequila, grapefruit, and lime), the conversation blends humor with an important reminder: possession periods move fast, and planning ahead matters. How Spring Break Works Under a Texas Standard Possession Order Under a traditional Texas Standard Possession Order, spring break typically alternates between parents each year. No advance notice is required. The period usually includes: The weekend before spring breakThe full week of breakThe weekend afterThat extended block allows parents meaningful travel time and uninterrupted possession. For parents living more than 100 miles apart, the non-primary parent often receives spring break each year to balance missed weekends throughout the year. Bryan notes that while this structure is standard, families can negotiate different arrangements. Some parents choose to split spring break in half, especially when work schedules or childcare make a nine-day block difficult. Flexibility—when possible—can reduce stress for everyone involved. Important Summer Deadlines: April 1 & April 15 One of the most important reminders in this episode centers on summer possession designations. Under most Texas orders: The noncustodial parent may designate up to 30 days of summer possession.Notice is typically due by April 1.If no designation is made, default language usually assigns July 1–31.Those 30 days can often be split into two blocks (usually at least 7 days each). Strategic planning can also allow parents to attach surrounding weekends for longer trips. Then by April 15, the custodial parent may designate a weekend during the other parent’s extended summer possession. Bryan’s advice is simple: do not wait until March 31 to call your lawyer. Review your order now. Check your calendar. Plan around work obligations and travel ideas before deadlines pass. Settlement Week & Spring Break Opportunities The episode also touches on “settlement week” in some counties during spring break. While courts may not hold hearings, mediation opportunities—often at low or reduced cost—may be available. For families hoping to finalize a divorce or custody modification, this can be an excellent opportunity to resolve a case efficiently. Avoiding “Emergency” Filings Before Holidays Bryan candidly notes that just before extended possession periods—spring break included—law offices often receive last-minute emergency calls. While genuine emergencies exist, many situations stem from heightened emotions tied to longer separations. Courts focus on true emergencies involving child safety—not manufactured disputes. Planning and communication can often prevent unnecessary litigation. Travel Considerations Most Texas possession orders allow travel within the continental United States during possession periods without additional permission. While every order is different, passport or international travel restrictions are not automatically included in standard orders. As always, review your specific decree. The Takeaway Episode 64 serves as a practical reminder that Texas custody deadlines arrive quickly. Spring break alternates. Summer designations require notice. Courts follow the written order. Planning early protects your time with your children—and prevents avoidable conflict. As Bryan says, enjoy your spring break… just make sure you come back on time.

    14 min
  5. High-Conflict Custody, Parental Alienation & Rebuilding After Divorce: A Conversation with Steve Mayeda - Ep 63

    FEB 21

    High-Conflict Custody, Parental Alienation & Rebuilding After Divorce: A Conversation with Steve Mayeda - Ep 63

    In Episode 63 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston sit down with Steve Mayeda, a coach who has spent more than two decades helping men navigate trauma, addiction recovery, false allegations, high-conflict custody battles, and parental alienation.  Over a classic Ranch Water—tequila, fresh lime, and Topo Chico—the conversation goes beyond divorce litigation strategy and focuses on what many parents in Texas family law cases experience but rarely discuss: the emotional cost of fighting for your children. Redefining Strength in High-Conflict Divorce Steve Mayeda challenges the stereotype of what strength looks like in divorce. In his experience, true strength isn’t dominance—it’s resilience. It’s the father who survives false allegations, emergency protective orders, or years of limited possession and still chooses to remain steady, consistent, and child-focused. “Stayed alive. Learned how to change your life so that you could be a parent,” Steve explains. That, he says, is the real win. Bryan agrees, noting that in many high-conflict custody cases, success isn’t measured only by court orders. Sometimes the greatest victory is rebuilding a damaged parent-child relationship. Parental Alienation & the Courtroom Reality The episode tackles the difficult topic of parental alienation and how it intersects with litigation. While the emotional experience may feel overwhelming, Bryan explains that Texas courts focus on evidence, documentation, and conduct—not labels. Terms like “narcissistic abuse” or “alienation” may describe a lived experience, but courts require proof tied to the child’s best interest. That’s why preparation, documentation, and strategic legal guidance matter in contested custody disputes. At the same time, Steve emphasizes that legal strategy alone is not enough. Parents must address the emotional side of divorce—grief, betrayal, identity loss—through therapy, coaching, or support systems. Ignoring that work often spills over into the courtroom in ways that hurt credibility. The Three Layers of Loss in Divorce The discussion identifies three separate grief processes common in divorce: The loss of the relationshipThe loss of the future you envisionedThe loss of daily time with your childrenTrying to navigate these while facing depositions, mediation, or trial can feel overwhelming. The solution, both agree, is incremental progress—becoming slightly stronger and more disciplined each day. Rebuilding After Alienation Reunification after alienation or prolonged separation is rarely immediate. It requires patience, consistency, and emotional regulation. Parents must rebuild trust while co-parenting—sometimes with the very person who contributed to the conflict. Steve Mayeda describes this as the true “high road.” Not perfection. Not retaliation. But steady presence and long-term commitment to your child’s well-being. The Takeaway for Texas Parents Episode 63 offers a powerful reminder: high-conflict divorce and custody litigation are marathons, not sprints. Winning in Texas family court requires both legal preparation and personal growth. As Bryan reflects, “Sometimes the real win isn’t the order you get. It’s who you become in the process.”

    42 min
  6. Indecent Proposals, Valentine’s Day, and When Money Crosses the Line - Ep 62

    FEB 14

    Indecent Proposals, Valentine’s Day, and When Money Crosses the Line - Ep 62

    In Episode 62 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston lean into Valentine’s Day with humor, pop culture, and a surprisingly serious legal discussion about money, marriage, and where attraction turns into liability. Over a smooth “Slow Burn” cocktail—tequila, blood orange juice, agave, and fresh lemon—the couple explores modern versions of the classic Indecent Proposal dilemma and what happens when real life imitates Hollywood. Valentine’s Day, Romance, and a Classic Question The episode opens with a lighthearted debate about Valentine’s Day traditions (or the lack thereof) in the Eggleston household, before Bryan poses the episode's central question: Would you leave your spouse for millions of dollars? That question leads directly to a discussion of the 1993 film Indecent Proposal, in which a wealthy man offers a married couple a large sum of money in exchange for one night with the wife. While fictional, the premise sparks a deeper conversation about consent, power, and whether money can—or should—buy access to a married person. When Fiction Becomes a Lawsuit Bryan then introduces a real-world case making headlines: a lawsuit filed by an ex-husband alleging that a wealthy CEO intentionally interfered with his marriage by offering his wife cash, real estate, luxury trips, and long-term financial support. According to the allegations, the CEO—who was also the wife’s employer—made repeated offers, including a $1.5 million home in Park City, large cash payments, and travel arrangements. The husband claims those actions contributed to the breakdown of the marriage and is suing under a state law that allows claims for alienation of affection or similar “homewrecker” causes of action. While Texas does not recognize these claims, Bryan explains that some states still do, making this more than just tabloid gossip—it’s a legitimate legal issue depending on jurisdiction. Power, Employment, and the Real Problem Janice highlights the most troubling aspect of the story: the power imbalance. Offering money or lifestyle benefits to a married person is problematic on its own—but doing so when that person is your subordinate raises serious ethical, employment, and legal red flags. The discussion touches on how intent, presentation, and context matter. Talking about success while dating is one thing; explicitly offering money, property, or “care” in exchange for leaving a spouse crosses into dangerous territory, especially when documented in emails and financial transactions. Modern Dating, Old Problems The episode also explores modern “dating apps” that openly incorporate financial expectations—blurring lines between relationships, transactions, and legality. Bryan jokes that discovery requests may soon need to include dating apps, while Janice points out that just because something is trendy doesn’t mean it’s wise—or lawful. The Takeaway Episode 62 blends humor with a clear message: money does not eliminate consequences. Whether it’s a movie plot or a real lawsuit, offering financial incentives to disrupt a marriage can create serious legal exposure—especially when power, employment, and documentation are involved. As Bryan sums it up, “Love and lust keep us in business—but bad decisions keep people in court.”

    21 min
  7. Mediation vs. Litigation: Choosing the Right Path to Final Resolution - Ep 61

    FEB 7

    Mediation vs. Litigation: Choosing the Right Path to Final Resolution - Ep 61

    In Episode 61 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston dive into one of the most important—and often misunderstood—topics in family law: how cases actually get resolved. Over a tart Raspberry Margarita made with tequila blanco, lime juice, raspberries, and Squirt, the conversation breaks down the realities of mediation, litigation, and why preparation matters far more than people realize.  Ep 61 - audio There Are Only Two Ways to Finish a Case Bryan opens the episode by reminding listeners of a fundamental truth in Texas family law: there are only two ways to finalize a divorce or custody case—by agreement or by court order. An agreement requires the parties themselves to reach common ground. Attorneys can advise, negotiate, and guide, but they cannot force resolution. When agreement isn’t possible, the only remaining option is litigation, whether through a judge, jury, arbitration, or private judge. Why Mediation Is Still Worth It Most counties require mediation before trial, but Bryan and Janice explain that mediation serves a larger purpose than just checking a box. Even when settlement feels unlikely, mediation can clarify issues, reveal the other side’s priorities, and narrow disputes. Bryan emphasizes that preparation for mediation mirrors preparation for trial. Property spreadsheets, documentation, and clear positions are essential. “I don’t want to negotiate something away that I didn’t know existed,” he explains. Janice adds that mediation can feel overwhelming for clients because of the emotional pressure to make decisions quickly. That’s why the firm prepares clients in advance—by walking through potential offers before mediation day—so decisions aren’t made out of panic or exhaustion. Control vs. Chaos One of mediation’s biggest advantages is control. Parties can craft detailed, customized agreements that courts simply don’t have time to create. Trial outcomes, by contrast, can be unpredictable—and sometimes leave both sides unhappy when a judge orders something neither party requested. Mediation also allows clients to prioritize what matters most, even if they don’t get everything they want. As Bryan notes, walking away slightly unhappy often means both sides gained something—and avoided far greater risk. When Mediation Goes Wrong The episode also features candid “mediation horror stories,” including a session in which a client arrived with a toddler in tow and another in which opposing counsel abruptly left late in the evening, ending productive negotiations midstream. Bryan is clear: if attorneys or parties have hard stops, those need to be disclosed upfront. Mediation works best when everyone fully commits to the process. The Takeaway Episode 61 reinforces a critical lesson for anyone in family litigation: mediation and litigation are parallel paths, not shortcuts. Preparation, realism, and understanding the tradeoffs between control and cost are key to making the right choice. As Bryan puts it, mediation isn’t about selling anything—it’s about giving clients informed options and the ability to choose their own outcome whenever possible.

    22 min
  8. Community Property, Prenups, and Big Life Moments: Understanding the Rules Before Divorce - Ep 60

    JAN 31

    Community Property, Prenups, and Big Life Moments: Understanding the Rules Before Divorce - Ep 60

    In Episode 60 of Cases & Cocktails, Bryan and Janice Eggleston welcome Natalie Dominic, an attorney at The Eggleston Law Firm, for an educational and lighthearted conversation about community property, separate property, and why understanding these concepts before divorce—or even marriage—can save families significant stress later.  Ep 60 - Audio Over a cleverly named “Split Assets Sour”—a tequila cherry limeade—the episode blends legal education with personal milestones, laughter, and real-world examples that clients face every day. What Is Community Property in Texas? Natalie explains that Texas law starts with a rebuttable presumption: any property acquired during marriage is presumed to be community property. That means it is generally subject to division in divorce—regardless of whose name is on the account, title, or credit card. Separate property, by contrast, must be proven. Assets owned before marriage, or acquired by gift or inheritance during marriage, can remain separate—but only if the spouse claiming it can clearly document when and how it was acquired. Without proof, even separate property can be treated as community. Why Documentation Matters One of the most common struggles in divorce cases, Natalie notes, is that couples are often married for 10, 15, or 20 years before divorcing. By that point, tracking down bank statements or account balances from the date of marriage can be extremely difficult—sometimes impossible. That lack of documentation can be costly. If a spouse cannot prove the separate portion of an asset, the court may presume the entire asset is community property and divide it accordingly. Separate Property That Grows During Marriage The episode also tackles a frequent source of confusion: retirement accounts. Natalie walks through a common scenario—an IRA that existed before marriage but increased significantly during the marriage. While the original balance may remain separate property if proven, any growth, interest, or income earned during the marriage is typically community property and subject to division. This reality often surprises clients who assume that accounts in their name alone remain untouched in divorce. Credit Cards, Fairness, and Reality Another misconception Natalie addresses is debt. Clients often believe that if a credit card is in only one spouse’s name, it belongs solely to that person. In reality, if the debt was incurred during the marriage, it is generally considered community—regardless of whose name appears on the statement. Bryan and Janice also acknowledge that while the law aims for a “just and right” division, that does not always feel fair on a personal level. Divorce property division follows legal rules—not individual moral judgments. Prenups, Transparency, and Planning Ahead The conversation turns personal as Natalie shares her recent engagement, prompting a broader discussion about prenuptial agreements. While prenups often carry stigma, the group emphasizes that they are fundamentally about transparency—understanding what each person brings into a marriage and setting expectations upfront. A prenup doesn’t have to mean keeping everything separate forever. In many cases, it simply identifies separate property and clarifies how future assets will be treated, reducing conflict if divorce ever occurs. The Takeaway Episode 60 reminds listeners that community property rules affect nearly every divorce case in Texas—and misunderstanding them can have serious consequences. Whether through documentation, prenups, or simply informed decision-making, clarity and preparation are powerful tools for protecting yourself and your family.

    26 min
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About

Cases & Cocktails is your go-to weekly podcast for raw, real, and revealing conversations about family law. Hosted by Bryan & Janice Eggleston of The Eggleston Law Firm, this video and audio podcast brings you expert insights, firsthand experiences, and the untold stories behind high-stakes family law cases. From judges and attorneys to former clients and industry experts, Cases & Cocktails invites a diverse lineup of guests to break down complex legal battles, parental alienation, child custody disputes, and high-conflict divorces—all over a cocktail (or two). Whether you’re facing a legal challenge, working in the legal field, or just fascinated by the drama and dynamics of family law, this podcast serves up valuable insights with a personal touch. 🎙️ New episodes drop every week! Tune in, pour yourself a drink, and join the conversation.

Information

  • Creator
    The Eggleston Law Firm
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Cases & Cocktails
  • Show Website
    Cases & Cocktails