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Divorce cases don’t always play out fairly. Some people use tactics that catch their spouse off guard and tip the process in their favor. These moves can involve money, custody, or even emotional manipulation. If you don’t know what to look for, you could lose time, rights, or property without even realizing it. Understanding the common tricks and pitfalls in Texas divorce cases can help you avoid serious mistakes and stay one step ahead.
Property Division Pitfalls
Texas follows community property rules. Anything acquired during the marriage usually gets split between spouses. But people often try to twist the system.
Hiding Assets
Some spouses move money to secret accounts, undervalue property, or give things away to friends. They hope to reduce the visible assets so they get a bigger share. These moves often happen in the months before a divorce filing.
Watch for signs like:
- Missing financial records
- Sudden drops in reported income
- Unusual bank withdrawals or transfers
Claiming Property as Separate
A spouse might claim an asset is separate, not marital, just to keep it. For example, someone might say a house was a gift or inheritance. Without proof, this can turn into a legal tug-of-war.
If you suspect something, gather all documents and ask for a clear record of how the property was acquired.
Inflating Debt
Another trick involves loading up on debt, knowing the court may assign a portion to you. Spouses sometimes take out loans or max out credit cards during separation to punish the other financially.
Track shared debt and flag anything unusual with your attorney early in the process.
Custody and Parenting Time Tricks
Texas courts base custody decisions on the best interest of the child. Still, some parents try to use the system to gain full control.
False Allegations
Some parents file false claims of abuse or neglect to gain full custody. These accusations stall the case and shift focus. Even if the claims get dismissed, they can leave damage.
Keep records of communication, especially during tense moments. If things escalate, let your lawyer handle responses.
Interfering With Visitation
A parent might ignore scheduled visits or use excuses to block time. They may claim the child is sick or has other plans every time it’s your turn.
Courts don’t look kindly on this, especially when it’s consistent. Document missed visits and bring up concerns in court filings if needed.
Moving Without Notice
One parent may try to move the child to another city or state without consent. This move can make it harder to see your child and forces you into an out-of-state court battle.
Texas law requires court approval before a parent relocates with the child. If you think a move is coming, file for a geographic restriction or temporary order quickly.
Financial Support Pitfalls
Money often becomes a battleground in divorce, and people use several tricks to avoid paying what’s fair.
Quitting a Job
Some spouses quit or switch to a lower-paying job to reduce child support or alimony obligations. They claim they can’t afford payments because of their new income level.
Courts can assign “imputed income” if they suspect the job change was intentional. That means the court calculates support based on what the person should be earning.
Delaying the Case
Dragging out the divorce increases your legal costs and delays support payments. Some people switch lawyers, skip hearings, or avoid filing documents just to wear the other party down.
Request a scheduling order and stick to deadlines. Courts can penalize parties who delay without good reason.
Cash Jobs or Under-the-Table Income
People who work in construction, sales, or gig work may not report their full income. They might do this to avoid higher child support or property division.
Keep an eye on lifestyle changes. If someone claims to be broke but drives a new car or goes on vacation, something may not add up. Share these details with your legal team.
Emotional Traps
Divorce doesn’t just hurt financially. Some tactics aim to break you down mentally, hoping you’ll give in or settle for less.
Love Bombing or Guilt Trips
Some spouses beg for another chance after filing or try to guilt the other into stopping the process. They may use kids, history, or old promises as pressure points.
Stay focused. If divorce is the right choice for you, don’t let emotional tactics cloud your decision.
Playing the Victim
In court or mediation, a spouse might pretend to be helpless, confused, or overly emotional. They want sympathy and hope the judge views them more favorably.
Let facts, not drama, guide your side of the case. Stay calm and stick to evidence.
Using the Kids
One of the worst moves involves turning the children against the other parent. This behavior causes long-term damage to kids and may affect custody decisions.
Document signs of manipulation. If necessary, ask the court for a custody evaluation or child therapist input.
Legal and Filing Mistakes
Even if no one plays dirty, small missteps in the process can still cost you.
Not Reading the Final Decree
Some people trust their lawyer too much or feel too drained to read the final court order. This leads to missed terms, surprise obligations, or unclear rights.
Always read the final documents. Ask questions until everything makes sense.
Signing Without Review
During negotiations or mediation, a spouse may ask you to sign something quickly. They may say it’s just paperwork or a minor detail.
Never sign anything related to property, custody, or support without reviewing it. Take it to your lawyer first.
Missing Deadlines
Texas courts move on a timeline. If you miss deadlines for filing responses, financial disclosures, or court appearances, you can lose your right to contest issues.
Track all due dates and follow through. Your lawyer can help with reminders, but you must stay involved.
How to Protect Yourself
Stay Organized
Keep all records in one place. Store emails, texts, bank statements, and other proof of behavior or income.
Use Written Communication
Stick to texts or emails, especially when things get hostile. Verbal agreements won’t hold in court.
Follow Court Orders
Even if the other party violates the order, don’t fight back by doing the same. Follow your side, and report violations through proper channels.
Get Legal Support
Legal advice helps you avoid mistakes and spot bad behavior early. Even if you can’t afford full representation, some attorneys offer limited-scope services or payment plans.
Final Thoughts
Divorce in Texas doesn’t just involve paperwork. It includes decisions about money, kids, and your future. Some people play dirty, others just make costly mistakes. Learn what to expect and keep your guard up. Use facts, stay calm, and protect your rights through every step. The more informed and prepared you are, the less likely you’ll fall into a trap that could affect your life long after the papers are signed.
If you want to know more about what you can do, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book: “16 Steps to Help You Plan & Prepare for Your Texas Divorce”
If you want to know more about how to prepare, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book: “13 Dirty Tricks to Watch Out For in Your Texas Divorce, and How to Counter Them” Today!”
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can still get a divorce even if the other person doesn’t sign the papers. However, the process and requirements may vary depending on your jurisdiction. It’s recommended to consult a legal professional to understand the options available in your situation.
To check your divorce certificate online, you can typically contact the vital records office or relevant government agency in your state. They may have an online portal where you can request and obtain copies of your divorce certificate.
In a Texas divorce, a prove up testimony is a statement made by one or both parties in court to finalize the divorce proceedings. It involves confirming key details of the divorce, such as property division, child custody arrangements, and any agreed-upon terms.
Yes, it is possible to get a divorce without your spouse’s signature in Texas. If your spouse is uncooperative or cannot be located, you may still be able to proceed with the divorce by following legal procedures, such as providing notice through alternative methods.
