Time to File for Divorce in Harris County and Houston
If you’re considering filing for divorce in Harris County, Texas, it’s crucial to understand the specific requirements and options available to you. The divorce process varies from state to state, making it essential to do your research or seek guidance from an experienced divorce attorney in Houston, Texas.
Residency Requirements for Divorce in Texas
Before you can file for divorce in Texas, you must meet certain residency requirements. At least one spouse must have lived in Texas for six months prior to filing for divorce and must have been a resident of the county where the suit is filed for at least 90 days. These residency requirements aim to prevent individuals from seeking favorable courts or judges by moving to another state or county.
Grounds for Divorce in Texas
Texas allows both “no-fault” and “fault-based” divorces. In a no-fault divorce, the court doesn’t require either spouse to prove the other’s actions as the cause of the divorce. Fault-based divorces, on the other hand, require one or both spouses to demonstrate that the other’s actions led to the failure of the marriage.
No-Fault Grounds for Divorce in Texas
No-fault divorces are faster and more straightforward, as there’s no need to prove fault or bad acts. The two no-fault grounds for divorce in Texas are:
- Insupportability of the marriage: The marriage is no longer sustainable due to conflict or discord, and reconciliation is unlikely.
- Living apart: The spouses have lived separately without cohabitation for at least three years.
Fault-Based Grounds for Divorce in Texas
In fault-based divorces, one or both spouses must present evidence to the court proving that specific acts led to the divorce. These divorces are typically more contentious, expensive, and time-consuming. The fault-based grounds for divorce in Texas are:
- Cruelty
- Adultery
- Felony conviction
- Abandonment
- Confinement to a mental hospital for at least three years
Types of Divorce in Texas
Divorces in Texas can be either uncontested or contested, depending on the level of agreement between spouses.
Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce, also known as an “agreed divorce,” occurs when both spouses agree on all divorce-related matters, such as property division, child custody, and support. Uncontested divorces are generally faster and less expensive, as there’s no need to fight in court.
Contested Divorce: In a contested divorce, spouses can’t reach an agreement, and the court must decide on the issues in the divorce. These divorces can be more complicated and take longer to finalize.
Is Divorce Mediation For Me?
Divorce mediation is an affordable and private divorce option, mediation also has a proven history for helping families resolve disputes without the need for a trial. Taking your case to trial typically will increase the amount of time, money, and stress involved in your divorce.
While no divorce method is completely stress free, divorce mediation allows both parties to have their needs represented. The divorcing couple will be given the chance to work together to reach an amicable resolution in their case, instead of allowing a judge to have the final say.
Dawn Renken, became a licensed mediator through ADR Services International Inc. in 2014. Since this time, Attorney Renken has been working as a Cypress divorce mediation expert with couples to help them work together to reach divorce agreements that are mutually beneficial for their long term needs.
The role of the mediator is to simply ensure all important matters are discussed and dealt with, as well as ensure neither party is using bully tactics in order to get the other party to agree to the terms they desire for their divorce. Your divorce agreement is only finalized when both parties agree to the terms of the divorce and sign off on it. If you are unable to work together to reach an amicable divorce agreement, mediation will not be a viable method for divorce. If you and your spouse are actively looking to work through your divorce together, Renken Law Firm can help by offering affordable divorce mediation in Houston, TX.
Navigating the Divorce Process
If you’re pursuing an uncontested divorce, you can find specific forms and procedures based on your situation. On the other hand, contested divorces involve more complex legal proceedings, and many individuals opt to hire a lawyer to guide them through the process.
At Affordable Family Lawyer Serving Houston, TX, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional legal representation to the Greater Houston area. Our team understands that every divorce is unique, with different needs that must be addressed. If you’re facing a divorce, contact our law office to explore your options and find the support you need to navigate this challenging process successfully. Whether you’re in Brazos County, Cypress, Fort Bend County, Galveston, Houston Heights, Katy, Memorial Houston, Montgomery County, Richmond, Spring, or The Woodlands, our team is here to help you achieve the best outcome for your situation.
Renken Law Firm, PLLC
11500 Northwest Fwy #586
Houston, TX 77092
(713) 956-6767
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