Austin Divorce Attorney

Understanding the Divorce Process in Texas

Divorce can be a complex and emotional process, but having a clear understanding of the legal requirements and steps involved can help alleviate some of the stress. In Texas, there are specific residency requirements that must be met before filing for divorce, and the process can vary depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested.

As an experienced Austin divorce lawyer, I can guide you through each step of the divorce process, including:

• Meeting Texas residency requirements
• Filing the necessary divorce paperwork
• Negotiating and reaching agreements on property division, child custody, and support
• Resolving any disputes through mediation or litigation
• Finalizing the divorce decree

Whether you are considering filing for divorce or have already begun the process, The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need during this challenging time. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a Divorce in Texas?

The difficulty of the divorce process depends on whether both parties agree on certain issues. If both parties agree, then the divorce process may take only a few weeks or up to a year, but can also depend on your particular legal situation. That said, this does not mean that both must agree to a divorce.

The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies can assist with:

• Alimony
• Child support
• Child custody and possession
• Property division
• Enforcement
• Many other family law matters

It is possible to get a divorce in Texas even if your spouse is not in agreement with your decision to end the marriage. If you and your spouse are able to come to an agreement on the multiple legal matters that arise during divorce proceedings, a trial will not be necessary.

As a family law firm representing clients in Travis, Williamson, Hays, Bexar, and Dallas Counties, divorce attorney T. Wade Jefferies can help you navigate the divorce process, regardless of the complexity of your unique divorce case.

WHAT ARE THE TEXAS RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR DIVORCE?

In order to file for divorce in Texas, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for a minimum of six months. In addition, you must have lived in the county where you file your petition for divorce for at least 90 days prior to the filing.

Once your petition is filed, it takes at least 60 days for the divorce to be finalized. The Law Firm of T. Wade Jefferies can guide you through the laws concerning divorce in Texas. I will look out for your best interests and work with you to resolve your divorce with as little stress as possible.

DOES IT MATTER WHO FILES FOR DIVORCE FIRST IN TEXAS?

It does not make any significant difference who files for divorce first in Texas.

• If you are the “Petitioner” (the one who filed first), then you will have to wait until your spouse (the “Respondent”) responds to the lawsuit.
• If you are the Respondent, then you will need to file a response to the divorce petition within 20 days of being served with the Petition for Divorce

WHAT DO YOU DO IF YOUR SPOUSE WON'T SIGN DIVORCE PAPERS?

After serving your divorce petition, your spouse should respond to the divorce papers within 20 days. The case could then potentially proceed as an uncontested divorce. Your spouse may still be required to sign some type of papers, such as an Agreed Decree of Divorce. 

If your spouse still does not sign an Agreed Decree of Divorce, then it is likely that the case will go to trial. The judge will then make decisions and rulings on the terms of the divorce and all related matters such as the property division, child custody and support, and all other issues in the case.