...

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the Divorce Process

Navigating through a divorce can be a complex and emotionally taxing journey. This is true especially when it involves understanding the specific legalities in Texas. To assist those embarking on this challenging path, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide addressing common questions about divorce in Texas.

This article aims to demystify the divorce process, providing clear and concise answers to the most frequently asked questions. From the initial filing procedures to understanding custody and asset division, our goal is to offer a helpful resource that clarifies doubts and guides individuals through the various stages of their divorce proceedings in Texas. Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or are already in the midst of it, this guide serves as an essential tool in navigating the legal landscape with greater confidence and understanding.

What is a Texas Divorce?

From a legal standpoint, Divorce is the method of terminating a marriage contract between two individuals (the parties). A divorce ends a valid marriage. It is the legal procedure that returns both parties to single status to remarry.

In Texas, a divorce takes care of three issues:

  1. Children – it gives both spouses the right to determine the future care and conservatorship of their children,
  2. Property and Debts divide property and debts in a “just and right manner.”
  3. Divorce – Once the Divorce is final, either is free to marry someone new.

What is a “no-fault Divorce?

A majority of states have at least one form of “no-fault” grounds for Divorce. Texas is no exception and allows people to plead for Divorce on “no-fault” grounds. This means a spouse can file for Divorce because the marriage has become insupportable.

When pleading “no-fault” in a Texas divorce, you need to know that a divorce will be granted without either spouse having to allege or prove marital fault or guilt.

What are the fault grounds in Divorce?

A divorce in Texas can be granted without having to prove fault. However, it is still possible to plead guilt under Section 6 of the Texas Family Code, such as:

  1. living apart
  2. confinement in a mental hospital
  3. cruelty
  4. Abandonment
  5. Conviction of a felony and
  6. adultery

Who is the Petitioner in a Divorce in Texas?

The Petitioner is the term used for the spouse who starts the case by filing an Original Petition for Divorce.

Who is the Respondent in a Divorce in Texas?

The Petitioner in a divorce is the spouse who starts the case by filing an Original Petition for Divorce. The other spouse is called a Respondent because they can respond to the Original Petition for Divorce by filing an answer.

What is an Original Petition for Divorce in Texas?

A divorce is started in Texas by filing an Original Petition for Divorce.

What is Notice?

As the Petitioner, it is your responsibility to provide notice to your spouse of your having filed for Divorce.

If you do not provide notice and then show proof to the Court of having been provided information, your Divorce cannot proceed. This can delay your case in the short term.

How do I provide my spouse notice of the Divorce?

There are multiple ways to notify your spouse of your intent to divorce them. These methods include:

  1. Process Server – Service of Process
  2. Waiver of service
  3. Service by publication

What is Service of Process?

When a divorce is filed with the courts, to proceed with the divorce, the law requires everyone who is a party to the Divorce to be notified of the Divorce.

To comply with Rule 106 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, the Original Petition for Divorce and court citation must be served on the other spouse. This is referred to as “service of process.”

What is a Waiver of Service in Texas?

It is required under the Texas Family Code requires that a spouse is notified when a divorce case has been opened. One method is to have them served by a process server.

Another method under the Texas Family Code is willing to sign a Waiver of Service. A waiver of service is a document the Respondent’s spouse signs waiving the requirement for service. By signing the release of services, the spouse agrees that it is unnecessary to have them served by a process server.

What is service by publication?

Service by publication is a less common method of service that the Judge will need to approve after you demonstrate that multiple attempts at personal service have yielded no results.

If a judge approves it, can you publish a notice to your spouse in a newspaper or other local publication?

What is an Answer?

The formal document you draft in response to the Original Petition for Divorce is called an “Answer.”

At its most basic, an Answer is a response you file with the Court letting the Court know that you plan to participate in the divorce process and do not want the Court to grant a default judgment.

What happens if the Respondent does not respond?

If the Respondent does not respond to the Petition within the correct amount of time, the Petitioner can file a request for default judgment.

What is a Default Divorce?

Default divorces are certainly not uncommon in Texas. When the other spouse, who was properly served with process under Rule 106 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, fails to file a responsive pleading, the Petitioner can proceed with the divorce by seeking a default judgment.

What is a divorce decree?

A divorce decree is a final document that the judge signs granting a divorce. A divorce decree will contain all the parties’ agreements and orders of the Court concerning all issues in the case, including child custody and possession, child support, alimony, and division of the community estate.

What is an Agreed Final Decree of Divorce in Texas?

An Agreed Final Decree of Divorce is the document that Judge signs ending the Divorce and approving the agreements you and your spouse have made regarding all of the specifics of your Divorce.

A divorce decree does not have to be an agreed final divorce decree. It could be just a final divorce decree. However, when order is decided upon, it is customary to add the word “Agree” in front to indicate to the Court that an agreement was reached.

What is the basic divorce process?

Consultation – An excellent first step in a divorce case or family law is scheduling and consulting with a family law attorney.

Filing for Divorce – The next step in the divorce process involves opening a file, drafting the initial paperwork.

Service – Once the Original Petition for Divorce has been filed with the Court, the other spouse must be made aware of the divorce action and be brought under the power of the Court. Either formal or informal service can do this.

Negotiation and Mediation – The parties may agree upon Temporary Orders.

Temporary Orders hearing – A hearing on Temporary Order is usually held after an unsuccessful mediation. This hearing is the formal way of settling the issues discussed in mediation. However, where mediation requires the parties to agree to resolve the problems. In a Temporary Orders Hearing, the Judge makes the decision based upon the testimony of the parties any evidence or witness testimony presented.

Discovery -This may include: (1) exchanging an Inventory and Appraisement (a list of assets and debts); (2) Interrogatories (a list of written questions); (3) Request for Disclosure (a written request for basic information about a case and a list of witnesses); (4) Request for Production of Documents (a written request for documents); (5) Request for Admissions (a written list of statements one spouse is asking the other to admit or deny); and (6) Depositions (questions asked and answered under oath).

Trial – Sometimes, a husband and wife are so far apart in what they want that it is impossible to reach an informal settlement agreement or settle in mediation. Just as with the Temporary Orders Hearing, it is necessary to present their case to the Judge.

What happens at the Trial?

A trial is a final court hearing. All issues must be presented before a judge. If there are agreements on certain matters, you can inform the Court about the agreed-upon terms. However, for contested issues, they must be presented to a judge or jury for the final decision.

The parties present the issues through their testimony, the presentation of evidence, and by calling witnesses. If you have a trial before a judge, the Judge will decide both child and property issues. If the case is before a jury, the jury will determine only specific matters (the character of the property, whether or not there is a common-law marriage, and custody of children). A judge will hear the remaining issues.

Ebook

Adobe Stock 62844981[2]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

Divorce Wasting Assets[4] 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!

Financial Checklist[3] Get this FREE download about what you need to know before filing for Divorce.

  1. Frequently Asked Questions How Long Does It Take and Other Court Dates?
  2. Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce? Frequently Asked Questions about Hiring a Lawyer
  3. Frequently Asked Questions About Uncontested and No-Fault Divorce
  4. Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Separation
  5. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Void Marriage in Texas
  6. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Texas Annulment
  7. 10 Facts You Never Knew About Texas Annulment
  8. How an annulment is different than a divorce in Texas
  9. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Common Law Marriage and Divorce
  10. Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Texas Marriage
  11. Frequently Asked Questions in Texas Divorce Cases
  12. 15 Myths About Divorce in Texas
  13. Common Questions about Texas Prenuptial and Marital Agreements
  14. Can I sue my spouse’s mistress in Texas?

Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Houston, Texas Divorce Lawyers

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding Divorce, it’s essential to speak with one of our Houston, TX Divorce Lawyers right away to protect your rights.

Our divorce lawyers in Houston, TX, are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form. The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, handles Divorce cases in Houston, Texas, Cypress, Klein, Humble, Kingwood, Tomball, The Woodlands, Houston, the FM 1960 area, or surrounding areas, including Harris County, Montgomery County, Liberty County, Chambers County, Galveston County, Brazoria County, Fort Bend County, and Waller County.

Categories: Uncategorized

Share this article

Category

Categories

Contact Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC Today!

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.

Office Hours

Mon-Fri: 8 AM – 6 PM Saturday: By Appointment Only

"(Required)" indicates required fields