An Overview of Things to Know About the Divorce Process in Texas

Recent studies have shown us that nearly 39% of marriages in the United States end in rupture. As for the Lone Star State, figures suggest that there are approximately 2.6 divorces per thousand individuals. If you’re looking for answers regarding the divorce process in Texas, you’re in the right place. We’ll cover the facts, legal issues and answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding this topic.

Breakups and separation are tough. Still, you can relieve some of the struggles by learning more about the subject.

Divorce Process in Texas - From Filing to Signing

Once you’ve chosen to annul your marital union, you should gather information regarding the mandatory steps you ought to take in a divorce procedure in Texas. Since regulations vary from one state to another, make sure to find all the right sources and get correct instructions on divorce laws in Texas. The main steps you should take are:

• Filing the petition and paying the obligatory court fee,
• Providing notice to your spouse,
• Scheduling and attending hearings,
• Signing the final decree.

In the meantime, people who undergo separation procedures often seek guidance from family members and friends. Some even rely on additional support from therapists or psychologists. These are the prime things you must be aware of if you’re going through a split - ask for help, both bureaucratically and emotionally.

Filing the Uncontested or Contested Divorce Petition and Paying the Fee

One of the spouses initializes the partition by filing a petition. The length of the residence of both parties determines the jurisdiction where this submission should be filed. Additionally, the spouse that commenced the procedure must provide divorce forms and documentation and evidence they have covered the required court fee. Once the paperwork that sets the proceeding in motion is ready, the other partner will receive a notice. Keep in mind that some steps might differ depending on whether the other party contests or not.

Providing Notice to Spouse

A heart-to-heart talk and splitting ways on friendly terms is desirable, but not always possible. What’s more, it’s not sufficient in the eyes of the law. The person who has commenced the procedure for divorce in Texas must officially notify the other spouse. A legal notice is an unavoidable part of completing the annulment in this state.

Talk to a Texas Lawyer and Prepare for the First Hearing in Court

Before making final decisions regarding custody, property, and other relevant matters, the seat of judgment calls for at least one hearing. During this step, both partners provide the necessary information and proof. Nevertheless, some come to a mutual agreement without the presence of an attorney or judge. When this is the case, the party that didn’t file the submission doesn’t need to attend the hearing.

The Final Step of the Process - Signing the Decree

Once both sides have come to an arrangement that suits them, they get to sign the decree. It’s essential to establish terms that don’t affect the children negatively. If the family doesn’t have children, the whole procedure is usually based upon dividing the property fairly.

Once both parties agree to end their relationship on the right terms, all that’s left to do is finalize by signing.

How Long Does it Take to Divorce in Texas?

Now that we have listed the vital steps all married couples who part their ways must undergo, we should discuss the duration of this whole course of action. In this state, the span of legal separation differs from one case to another. Some couples get their decree signed in no time, while others wait for several months. However, one thing’s certain. Each of the US states has its rules regarding the “cooling off” period. This term stands for the waiting period before the paperwork is officially signed. Here, the cooling-off lasts for 60 days.

Every separation process is different. Its duration depends on a few variables.

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Texas?

The costs connected to disunion are one of the prime concerns of those who explore this option. These figures fluctuate. The amount of cash needed for an annulment depends on:

• Filed fees
• Required deposits
• The agreement between the spouses
• Property division
• Custody and child support matters
• The number and duration of hearings and subpoena

These legal issues influence the price you’d need to pay. The most logical conclusion one can draw from it is that the couples who agree on multiple matters without legal assistance and interference get to save up. If you’ve got some unresolved custody, child support, or property issues, strive to resolve them before your case gets to the attorney and judge.

According to some studies, the overall cost of the Texas divorce process can be more than $15,000 if the parties don’t reach an understanding with the help of the attorney. Look up reliable lawyers’ services online.

If your marriage is on the rocks, your budget also needs redefining.

Rights & Responsibilities - Facts You Must Know

Diving belongings is often a tough corner to turn. This is the part where newly separated Texans become combative. Despite all the disagreements and disputes between former partners, the law has the final say. This US state is a community property state. The meaning of this term implies that all property gained during the marriage belongs to both former husband and wife.

To put it simply - What is a wife entitled to in a divorce in Texas? All income earned by either partner during the marriage pertains to both spouses evenly.

Consult your attorney and learn about the laws in Texas before taking any action.

Choose an Attorney and Search for Additional Support - Texas Divorce Procedure

Leaving your partner isn’t easy. It requires patience, support, dialogue, mutual planning, and good intentions. Additionally, it comes at a cost, especially if the sides refuse to cooperate. If you’ve chosen to take this route, try to do everything in your power to keep it painless and tension-free. Firstly, know the steps, facts, and figures:

• The petition needs to be filed to an adequate jurisdiction
• Both parties need formal notification
• There’s at least one hearing
• The “cooling-off” period lasts 60 days
• Separation expenses can exceed $15,000
• After finalizing by signing the decree, both sides are free to move on.

Getting through all of it requires dedication and a neutral attorney. Plan thoroughly and keep your former spouse in the loop. Ending a marriage on the wrong foot causes multiple problems. It can affect the children, other family members, and anyone involved. Make sure to avoid consequences by making the right moves.