John J. Kappel

John J. Kappel

Partner, Fox Rothschild, LLP; Board Certified Family Law
  • Appeals & Appellate, Divorce, Family Law ...
  • Texas
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Biography

An experienced family law, appellate, and litigation attorney who prides himself on delivering practical legal solutions and individual attention, John works closely with his clients to help them overcome some of their most serious challenges.

John is a passionate advocate for his clients inside and outside the courtroom. He is equally at home advocating for a better deal at the negotiation table, clinching a closing argument to ensure the best possible verdict, and distilling complex issues into a clear brief for appellate review.

He represents individuals in a full range of family law matters with a particular emphasis on unusual and complex disputes, appeals, and family law cases with international components, including cases brought under the Hague Convention.

In addition to family law, John represents individuals and businesses in civil litigation matters with a focus on contested probate, contract disputes, real estate litigation and partition suits, and trust and fiduciary litigation at both the trial and appellate level.

Beyond litigation, John advises individuals in estate planning.

Education
SMU Dedman School of Law
J.D. (2014) | Law
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Honors: Cum Laude
Activities: SMU International Law Review Association; SMU Board of Advocates; SMU Civil Clinic
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Baylor University
B.S. (2011) | Economics
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Honors: Dean's List
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Professional Experience
Partner
Fox Rothschild, LLP
- Current
Partner
Orsinger, Nelson, Downing & Anderson, LLP
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Associate
Holmes, Diggs, PLLC
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Speaking Engagements
Preparing a Family Law Case for Appeal
Annette Stewart Inn of Court
Hague Issues in Custody Cases, Advanced Family Law 2023
State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section
Using Summary Judgments in Property Cases, Family Law Essentials Seminar
State Bar of Texas, Family Law Section
Certifications
Board Certified Family Law
Texas Board of Legal Specialization
Awards
Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch
Best Lawyers
2023
Rising Stars
Super Lawyers
Best Lawyers Under 40 in Dallas
D Magazine
2021
Professional Associations
Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists
Member
- Current
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Annette Stewart Inn of Court
Associate
- Current
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Texas Bar College
Member
- Current
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State Bar of Texas  # 24085876
Member
- Current
Activities: Family Law and Appellate Sections
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Dallas Bar Association
Member
- Current
Activities: Family Law and Appellate Sections
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Collin County Bar Association
Member
- Current
Activities: Family Law and Appellate Sections
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Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice
Texas
State Bar of Texas
ID Number: 24085876
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5th Circuit
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Fees
  • Credit Cards Accepted
Practice Areas
Appeals & Appellate
Civil Appeals, Federal Appeals
Divorce
Contested Divorce, Property Division
Family Law
Child Custody, Prenups & Marital Agreements
Estate Planning
Trusts, Wills
Probate
Probate Administration, Probate Litigation, Will Contests
Arbitration & Mediation
Family - Arbitration/Mediation
Additional Practice Areas
  • Family Law Appeals
  • Hague Convention
  • International Divorce and Child Custody
  • Multi-Jurisdiction Divorce and Child Custody
Languages
  • English: Spoken, Written
Legal Answers
Q. My husband bought our home before we met. A few years ago we refinanced in both of our names. Can he sell the house
A: I agree with the other lawyer's answer. Additionally, if this property is designated as a homestead, which would normally be the case if this is your primary residence, he would not be able to sell it without you approving the sale even without standing orders being in place. Texas homestead law requires a person selling a homestead to have the approval of that person's spouse, if the seller is married, which would be you, to convey clear title on a homesteaded property.
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Websites & Blogs
Website
Fox Rothschild, LLP
Contact & Map
Fox Rothschild, LLP
2501 N. Harwood Street
Suite 1800
Dallas, TX 75201
Telephone: (972) 991-0889
Cell: (214) 231-5793
Fax: (972) 404-0516
Monday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM - 5 PM (Today)
Wednesday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Thursday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed