Affordable Divorce Attorney Near Me

Affordable Divorce Attorney Near Me

Are you looking for an affordable divorce attorney in the Houston area? Attorney Dawn Renken can help you. She is a practicing family law attorney in Texas, that specializes in divorce cases in Houston, TX. Attorney Renken received her mediation license through ADR Services International Inc. in 2014. Since this time, attorney Renken has worked with a wide range of divorcing couples including same-sex couples, couples looking to avoid traditional courtroom divorces, and more.

 

Same Sex Divorce Attorney Near Me

While gay marriage is legal on a national level, not all family law and divorce attorneys are experienced in same-sex cases. At Renken Law Firm in Houston, we stand with the LGBTQ+ community. We understand the differences that may arise in your specific case and want to work with couples to help them reach divorce agreements that fit their unique needs. We ensure our clients needs are being met and they are treated with respect every step of the way. If you would like to learn more about the same-sex divorce services we offer or begin the process of divorce, contact our office today.

 

Divorce Mediation Services Near Me

Mediation offers the opportunity to divorce without public court appearances or back and forth litigation. Mediation is a private method of divorce that allows both parties to work together to reach an amicable solution as a neutral third-party mediator works to ensure both parties are fairly represented in the final agreement. Divorce agreements reached through mediation are not finalized until both parties formally accept the terms the mediator helps them come to. In the case that one or both parties do not agree to the terms of the divorce agreement, the mediation will end and the divorcing couple will need to pursue litigation.

 

Can I Get a Legal Separation Instead of a Divorce?

You cannot get a legal separation instead of a divorce in Texas. Texas law does not recognize legal separations. However, there are options that provide similar outcomes to what you might think of as a “legal separation.”

In Texas you can use temporary orders, protective orders, suits affecting the parent-child relationship, or separation agreements to obtain many of the same goals as someone might want in a so-called legal separation.

All of these options are similar to a legal separation because they are ways to provide visitation, financial support, and property orders without getting a divorce, or before the divorce is finalized.

 

What Is a Separation Agreement?

A separation agreement is basically a contract where spouses no longer live together but are not officially divorced. A separation agreement specifies the rights and duties of the parties while they are living apart. This concept is similar to a legal separation because it can set requirements for visitation, financial support, or property rights.

To form a valid separation agreement the specific terms should be in writing and signed by both parties. A separation agreement can be a cost-efficient and timely way of establishing visitation, financial, and property rights. However, this is a complicated process that should only be completed by a lawyer. Small mistakes can have grave consequences and you should hire a lawyer to write this agreement.

 

How Is a Protective Order Similar to “Legal Separation”?

A protective order, which is available to protect a victim of family violence, can be seen as similar to a legal separation because protective orders can dictate where children live and who has access to them. Protective orders can also determine who gets to stay in the house or who has to leave. They can also establish child and spousal support. Typically, protective orders expire after two years. To learn more about protective orders, read I need a protective order.

 

Should I Hire A Divorce Attorney?

For many couples seeking divorce, they may be unsure if hiring a divorce lawyer is worth it for their specific case. Many couples feel that avoiding an attorney’s involvement will save them money and keep the divorce simple and quick. However, even in cases where couples are divorcing amicably and agree on the division of their rights, responsibilities, and property, a divorce attorney can provide helpful insight and useful information.

Even in mediated divorces it is best to consult with a divorce attorney to ensure you are covering all of your bases. It can end up costing you much more time, money, and energy down the road if you do not protect yourself and your rights at the time of your divorce. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate your divorce case.

 

Affordable Divorce Attorney in Houston

Renken Law Firm is here to help couples who wish to dissolve their marriage, whether that be through divorce or legal separation. We are here to help those who are ending marriages that have been contested, uncontested, or collaborative.

 

Renken Law Firm, PLLC
11500 Northwest Fwy #586
Houston, TX 77092
(713) 956-6767
https://therenkenlawfirm.com
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https://therenkenlawfirm.com/practice-areas/divorce/