Contested Divorce

Texas courts give all divorcing couples the opportunity to decide on the terms of their divorce themselves, such as child custody, property division, and other critical matters. When a couple cannot agree on these terms, however, the court must step in to assess the couple’s circumstances and decide on the terms for them. This is known as a contested divorce in Texas.

If you are facing a contested divorce, it is highly advised that you speak with legal counsel immediately. Renken Law Firm, PLLC is well-versed in the Texas divorce process. The team of compassionate and knowledgeable Houston attorneys know what it takes to aggressively pursue favorable solutions for their clients in the courtroom and ensure that their interests compellingly put forth before the judge.

The Contested Divorce Process

In Texas, the divorce process begins when one member of the couple files a Petition for Divorce with the court. When that happens, the other spouse can receive legal notice several different ways. The non-filing spouse can then provide an answer expressing that they do not agree with the terms of the divorce and wish to contest them.

Once a divorce petition is contested in Texas:

• The court may issue a temporary order considering child custody, spousal support, exclusive us of the residence, etc. for the duration of the divorce.
• The couple enters a discovery phase, in which they receive each other’s financial information and other relevant documentation.
• The court will require an attempt at mediation to settle all disagreements over the divorce terms.
• If mediation fails, there will be a trial where a judge will assess the couple’s marriage and make a ruling on the divorce terms.

These are the broad strokes of the contested divorce process. Renken Law Firm, PPLC will aggressively pursue your interests in mediation and at trial, if necessary.