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6 Tips – On How to Prepare for a Texas Divorce

6 Tips - On How to prepare for a Texas Divorce

Filing for a divorce requires not only legal acumen but also emotional fortitude and meticulous planning. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the critical steps and considerations for preparing for a Texas divorce.

After some consideration, you’ve decided to make one of the biggest decisions of your life and divorce your spouse. Whatever the motivating factors that led you to this choice, the fact remains that before you contact an attorney it would be in your best interest to come prepared for any meeting with information and documents that are relevant to the process in which you and your family are about to become involved in.

1. General Information

When I meet with a client, I tell them this is the “back of the baseball card” information: names, birthdays, social security numbers, date of the marriage, date the parties separated, etc. Information regarding the children of this marriage (and any previous marriages)- especially when those children are under 18 years old. The job you hold and the job your spouse holds and your incomes are important when it comes to considerations of child and spousal support.

2. Day to Day Living Expenses

6 Tips - On How to prepare for a Texas Divorce

This goes hand in hand with the income of each spouse that we just discussed. In order to make it through the divorce with minimal interruptions to the daily life of the parties and their children, it makes sense to let your attorney know of the expenses each party has, their assets/liabilities, and a little bit about your and your spouse’s credit histories. If one party has an overwhelming amount of debt your attorney should know about that immediately in order to plan ahead.

3. Property

Do you own the home you live in? Do you and your spouse own it jointly? These are bits of information that you attorney needs to have. Since Texas is a community property state, even if you bought your home prior to the marriage’s beginning date your spouse may have a claim for reimbursement if community income was utilized to make mortgage payments or improve the house.

Another aspect of property to let your attorney know of immediately is if you and your spouse have agreed to the sale of a home or other property. The terms of your agreement can be ratified in the Final Decree of Divorce.

4. Documentation of Assets and Debts

Gather all relevant financial documents. This includes bank statements, retirement accounts, investment records, and any debts like credit cards, loans, or mortgages. Texas courts divide community property (assets and debts acquired during the marriage) equitably.

Therefore, having a clear picture of what you own and owe is crucial. Include any separate property (owned before marriage or received as a gift/inheritance) as well, since it’s exempt from division but still needs to be documented.

5. Custody and Visitation Plans

6 Tips - On How to prepare for a Texas Divorce

If you have children, start thinking about custody arrangements. This includes physical custody (where the children will live) and legal custody (who will make important decisions about their welfare). Consider your children’s needs, your work schedule, and how to best maintain a stable environment for them. Document any current routines or parenting responsibilities that might support your case for custody or visitation rights.

6. Seek Emotional Support

Divorce can be emotionally taxing. It’s important to not only have legal support but also emotional support. This could be from friends, family, therapists, or support groups. Keeping yourself emotionally healthy is key in making sound decisions during the divorce process. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of the legal and financial aspects of the divorce.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, preparing for a Texas divorce is a multifaceted journey that requires careful attention to legal, financial, and emotional details. By gathering essential information, understanding your financial standing, considering the well-being of children, and seeking the necessary emotional and legal support, you can navigate this challenging process with greater clarity and confidence. Remember, while divorce marks the end of a marital relationship, it also paves the way for a new beginning.

Texas Divorce Process and Waiver of Service: A Comprehensive Legal Guide

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Other Articles you may be interested in:

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Categories: Family Law, Divorce

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At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, the firm wants to get to know your case before they commit to work with you. They offer all potential clients a no-obligation, free consultation where you can discuss your case under the client-attorney privilege. This means that everything you say will be kept private and the firm will respectfully advise you at no charge. You can learn more about Texas divorce law and get a good idea of how you want to proceed with your case.

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