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Dragging out a divorce can take a serious toll on your time, finances, and emotional well-being. If you’re wondering how to speed up your divorce in Texas, the key lies in preparation, cooperation, and knowing how the legal system works. From filing the right documents promptly to reaching mutual agreements on key issues like property and custody, every step you take toward clarity and efficiency can shorten the process. In this guide, we’ll explore practical strategies that help you avoid unnecessary delays and move toward a faster, smoother resolution.
Understand the Texas Divorce Waiting Period
Texas law requires a 60-day waiting period from the date the original petition is filed before a divorce can be finalized. This applies even if both spouses agree on everything. The only exceptions are cases involving domestic violence or certain annulments.
You can’t waive this rule, but you can use this time to prepare documents, settle issues, and get everything ready to finalize once the clock runs out.
File an Uncontested Divorce
The fastest divorces are uncontested. That means both spouses agree on major issues like:
- Property division
- Debt responsibility
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Spousal support (if applicable)
You don’t need to agree on every small detail upfront, but resolving the big issues early reduces time in court. Once both sides agree, they can draft and sign a final decree and submit it to the judge after the 60-day wait.
Draft a Clear Divorce Decree
Poorly written decrees cause delays. Judges may reject documents that are vague, missing key terms, or don’t follow the court’s format.
To avoid this, draft a decree that includes:
- A clear list of who gets what property
- A parenting plan if children are involved
- Specific language about child support and visitation
- Division of retirement accounts, debts, and personal property
Work with a lawyer if you’re unsure how to word these sections. A correct and complete decree saves time and avoids future hearings.
Communicate Early and Often
Misunderstandings create delays. Be honest about what you want and listen to your spouse’s concerns. Keep your tone calm and stick to the issues. If both parties stay civil and cooperative, you can move through the process faster.
Respond to emails, court notices, and document requests quickly. Missing deadlines or ignoring communication leads to rescheduled court dates or missed opportunities to settle.
Consider Mediation Before Trial
If you don’t agree on everything, mediation can help. A neutral third party works with both spouses to reach an agreement. Mediation often results in faster resolutions than waiting for a trial.
In Texas, many counties require mediation before a final hearing. Settling in mediation avoids months of preparation, witness testimony, and back-and-forth between attorneys.
Prepare All Required Documents in Advance
Courts need several forms to finalize a divorce, including:
- Petition for Divorce
- Waiver of Service (if your spouse waives formal notice)
- Final Decree of Divorce
- Child Support Order (if children are involved)
- Income and Expense Reports
- Inventory and Appraisement (if dividing property)
Submit these as early as possible. Double-check them for errors. Incomplete or incorrect forms slow things down and may lead to court rejections.
Waive Service if Possible
Your spouse must be legally served with the divorce papers unless they voluntarily waive service. If they agree to sign a Waiver of Service, this cuts out time and court effort.
Once they sign and file this document, you can proceed to the next steps without waiting for a process server or sheriff’s deputy.
Attend Court Hearings Prepared
Some divorces only require a short hearing. In others, you may face a full day in court. Either way, be ready. Bring copies of all documents, show up on time, and dress appropriately.
Speak clearly and answer the judge’s questions. If you’re unsure about a detail, ask to review your paperwork. Prepared parties tend to get quicker results.
Avoid Arguments About Small Items
Not everything needs a fight. Spouses often delay their own divorce over furniture, kitchenware, or small debts. If it costs more to argue about an item than to replace it, let it go. Focus on the issues that affect your long-term financial and parenting plans.
Settling these small issues early prevents last-minute battles that delay your court date.
Hire a Lawyer Who Knows the Process
You don’t need a lawyer for every divorce, but a good one helps avoid delays. Some lawyers know which judges require hearings, which clerks move files faster, and how to prepare orders that get approved the first time.
If you want to represent yourself, consider hiring a lawyer for limited-scope services like document review or court coaching.
File in the Right County
Filing in the wrong court slows everything down. In Texas, you must file in the county where either spouse has lived for at least 90 days. If you file in the wrong place, your case may be dismissed.
Check residency requirements before you file, and make sure the court has jurisdiction over both parties and any children involved.
Make Child Issues a Priority
Disagreements about custody and support often cause the longest delays. Judges must review every parenting plan to make sure it meets the child’s best interests.
Make sure your plan includes:
- Who has legal decision-making authority
- A schedule for holidays and school breaks
- How child support will be paid
- A method for resolving future disagreements
The more detailed your parenting plan, the fewer questions the judge will have. This helps you get final approval faster.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to speed up your divorce in Texas starts with smart planning and a willingness to cooperate. While the mandatory 60-day waiting period can’t be skipped, everything else—from filing accurate paperwork to resolving disputes outside of court—can dramatically affect your timeline. Staying organized, choosing an uncontested route when possible, and communicating clearly with your spouse all help avoid unnecessary delays. By focusing on efficiency from the start, you can protect your time, reduce stress, and move forward with confidence.
Other Related Articles:
- Can I Get a Quick Divorce in Texas: Steps and Tips
- How to Get a Quick Divorce in Texas: Fast and Easy Steps
- Do Both Parties Have to Sign for a Quick Divorce in Texas?
- How to Divorce Fast in Texas: A Quick Guide to Uncontested Divorce
- Easiest Way to Get Divorce in Texas: Quick, Affordable, and Hassle-Free
- Quick Guide: What Is the Minimum Timeframe for a Divorce in Texas?
- 10 Divorce Mistakes You Should Avoid for a Quick Split in Texas
- Is Texas a No-Fault State for Divorce? Your Quick Guide
- 15 Quick Tips Regarding Filing for Divorce in Texas
- Easy Divorce in Texas: A Quick Guide to a Smooth Process
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Texas
The fastest you can get a divorce in Texas is 60 days. The state mandates a 60-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition is filed to when it can be finalized.
While you cannot bypass the 60-day waiting period, you can prepare negotiation settlements and resolve other issues during this time to expedite the process as soon as the period ends.
You can prepare documentation and settle disputes early to make the process faster after the 60-day waiting period, but the waiting period itself cannot be skipped.
First, secure your financial and personal documents and valuables. Next, consult with a legal professional to discuss your rights and the best steps forward.
There’s no set limit, as a spouse can extend the divorce process by disputing issues. However, the court usually sets trial dates to prevent excessively prolonged proceedings.
No, Texas law requires that your divorce be fully finalized before you can legally marry another person.
Yes, if both parties agree on all divorce terms, it is possible to finalize the divorce without attending a court hearing, known as an uncontested divorce.
If both parties are in agreement and all documentation is promptly filed, the divorce can generally be finalized soon after the mandatory 60-day waiting period.
