Rockport Divorce Lawyer Providing Quality Legal Services and Representation for Clients Facing Divorce in Texas

Going through a divorce is a stressful, emotionally draining process that affects many areas of your life. Because you are often dealing with so many emotions, it may be hard to think clearly and make the right decisions. Learn the basics about getting a divorce in Texas and the key role a Rockport divorce attorney can play in helping you close out this difficult chapter in your life.

How Do Divorces Work in Texas?

Each divorce case is unique, and if you believe getting a divorce is the right choice for you, your first step should be to reach out to a Rockport divorce attorney as soon as possible. Even if you are still undecided or not ready to start the process, having a conversation with an attorney and getting answers to your questions can help put your mind at ease and have a better idea of what your divorce process may look like.

The initial step of the divorce process in Texas begins with filing a Petition of Divorce with the court. Next, your spouse is given a notice and will have a deadline to respond and state the items they agree with and the ones they do not agree with. Your spouse may also do this by filing a counter-petition.

All divorces in Texas are subject to a mandatory waiting period, even when both parties are in agreement. During this waiting period, you and your spouse are given an opportunity to agree on several important issues, such as child custody and property division. If a mutual agreement is reached, the parties may submit it to the judge and it may become part of their final divorce orders. If no agreement is reached, those issues will ultimately be decided in a court trial.

What Steps Should I Take to Prepare for a Divorce?

If you have already chosen to get a divorce, there are a few steps you may want to take in preparation for initiating your divorce and informing your spouse of your intentions. For example, it is important to collect documents and evidence that allow your attorney to get a clear picture of your marital finances and what should be included as marital property. Gather credit card statements, financial statements, insurance policies, birth certificates of your children, and any other documents that may be relevant to your case. You may also need to make arrangements for yourself and your children if you plan to leave your marital home.

If you have relied on your spouse’s income for the duration of the marriage, you may want to think about how you can generate your own income and keep your finances separate from your spouse’s. Opening a separate checking account and credit card account and saving enough money to cover your basic living expenses for a few months is also recommended because sometimes a spouse can become bitter about the divorce and stop providing you with the means to support yourself, even if you have not moved out yet.

The most crucial step is to speak with a Rockport divorce attorney as soon as possible. By doing that, you can feel more confident that you are taking the proper steps and can get answers to your questions.

Are There Different Types of Divorce in Texas?

When thinking about getting a divorce, the first thing that most people imagine is a heated courtroom battle with long, grueling trials and endless headaches. However, in Texas, those wishing to get a divorce to have other options that may not require formal litigation, as long as both parties can negotiate and reach an agreement in a friendly manner.

One of those options is called an uncontested divorce. In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree that the marriage is over and wish to part ways without blaming one another for the end of the relationship. This process is sometimes referred to as a no-fault divorce. If both sides can work together to make decisions on their issues, such as property division and child custody, this type of divorce is typically less expensive and less time-consuming than a formal, litigated divorce.

A litigated or contested divorce happens when there is a disagreement between the two spouses. A spouse may not agree to get a divorce or may not agree with the terms of the divorce. One of the spouses may blame the other for the marriage’s end and seek a fault divorce. These are just some examples of situations in which a litigated divorce may be the only choice. Even then, a judge may order the parties to try and resolve their matters through mediation before going to trial. A Rockport divorce attorney can advise you on which type of divorce may work best for you.

Why Should I Hire a Divorce Attorney?

In some cases, you may believe that your divorce is relatively simple – you have no children or your marital property is not significant – and it may be tempting to skip the step of hiring a divorce attorney. However, relying on the help of a divorce attorney can increase your chances of reaching a positive outcome and help you avoid making costly mistakes and giving up rights you may not even know you have. Let the Law Offices of S. Dylan Pearcy represent you and help you reach a favorable outcome so you can turn the page on this difficult chapter and move on. Call our Rockport, TX office at (361) 203-7097.