The Divorce Process

If you’re considering divorce, you’re not alone. Each year over 75,000  people divorce in Texas, and 40 to 50 percent of all first-time marriages end in divorce. January is typically the most common month for divorce, with couples staying together through the holidays and separating soon after.

No matter what your reason for ending your marriage, if you’re filing for divorce in Texas, there are several important things you should know about the law.

• Divorce in Texas is a Lengthy Process.

If you’re hoping for a speedy divorce, it probably won’t happen. In Texas, there is a minimum statutory waiting period of 60 days after a petition is filed. It typically takes about six months to one year or longer to finalize a divorce, depending on the complexity of the issues and the degree of conflict.

• No Legal Separation.

Texas does not recognize legal separation. This means that even when you are living apart from your spouse, all of the property you or your spouse acquire is community property—regardless of the way it is titled—and all debt you or your spouse acquire is community debt. Simply put, you are married until you are legally divorced. Make sure you take that into consideration during the divorce process so that there are no surprises.

• “No-Fault” Divorce in Texas.

Texas law allows for “no-fault” divorce, which means the spouse filing for divorce does not have to prove any fault, wrong doing or marital misconduct on the part of the other spouse. However, a judge may take fault into consideration when determining what is a fair division of the parties’ marital property.

• Divorce in Texas is not an easy process

Getting divorced is a complicated process. Attorneys attend school for years to understand all that the legal system encompasses. While you can technically represent yourself in a divorce suit, it can be a difficult process and end up costing you time, money and stress.

When contemplating a divorce, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney.  Renken Lwa Firm, PLLC can help you efficiently navigate the process. Even if your divorce becomes emotional, we are an objective third party who will remain calm and keep your best interests in mind.

• Having the right attorney can make the difference

It’s important to select an attorney you are comfortable with and to whom you can confide.  Divorce is intimately personal and the attorneys at Renken Law Firm, PLLC understand that. Our representation begins with a free consultation where you have an opportunity to meet us and begin to form that relationship necessary to succeed.  Renken Law Firm, PLLC practices exclusively family law, we do not dabble. Having an experienced, aggressive, knowledgeable attorney at your side is the key to having a successful divorce.