Getting a divorce is never easy, even if you and your spouse are on amicable terms. Ending a relationship is always stressful and disruptive.
Each state has its own set of laws and requirements for divorce, and the process can sometimes feel complicated and exhausting. Fortunately, Texas is one of the easier states to go through a divorce in.
Here are the basic steps you will need to follow in order to get a divorce in Texas:
- Meet residency requirements. Texas requires one of the spouses to have been a resident of the state for 6 months if filing outside of the county, or a resident of the county for at least 90 days if filing within the county.
- File Texas divorce papers with your county clerk and give your spouse a copy.
- The Discovery Phase. During this phase, spouses and their attorneys share information, disclosures and documents related to the case.
- Mediation is an attempt to reach a consensual agreement about the terms of the divorce without going to court. This can include matters such as how to divide assets and debts, child support and alimony.
- Trial. When an agreement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial and ultimately a judge decides on the various terms of the divorce.
In Texas, the fastest a divorce can be completed is 60 days after filing the divorce papers. During all stages of divorce, it helps to have an experienced Houston family law attorney by your side who can counsel you through the complexities of the legal system and protect your rights in court.