The divorce rate in the U.S. is shockingly high. There are many reasons that couples cannot maintain their relationship and decide to part ways. Texas law provides for both a no-fault divorce and a divorce based upon fault grounds. A No-Fault Divorce in Texas The Texas Family Code allows for a divorce without regard to fault “if the marriage has become insupportable because of discord or … [Read more...]
Should I Hire an Attorney to Represent Me in My Divorce?
If you and your spouse have no children and own no property together, you may be able to do your divorce yourselves. “No property” means you literally own nothing as a couple, not even a car. The “pro se” forms approved by the Texas Supreme Court are relatively easy to fill out in this type of divorce. Child Custody Issues There are many issues that need to be resolved between … [Read more...]
Fear and Divorce
Individuals going through a divorce often experience fear. The uncertainty of their future can sometimes be so severe that the individual becomes immobilized and unable to make decisions. They are going through a huge life change and their daily life as they knew it has ended. Some Specific Fears Divorcing People May Face Where to live. The concept of home that they have … [Read more...]
How Much Does a Divorce Cost?
Many family lawyers offer free consultations or charge clients a reduced fee for their initial consultations. If you are looking to find out how much your divorce will cost, the answer you will usually get is “it depends.” This is not a dodge -- there are many factors that can impact the cost of a divorce, not the least of which is if your case is agreed or if it involves minor children. Try to … [Read more...]
Divorce Mistakes: Texting and Social Media
Texting while divorcing, or posting on FB, Twitter or other social media platform, are all things you should not do while in the middle of a divorce. Airing your thoughts, frustrations, and misery on social platforms can come back to haunt you later. Anything you put out there can and will be used against you in court. Texts and Social Media Posts are Easily Misinterpreted As for … [Read more...]
Property Division in Divorce
Property division in divorce can be complicated. How the courts divide the estate depends on the type of the property involved and when or how it was acquired. Particular attention must be given to division of real estate and retirement plans. The court must also determine which property is marital property and which is separate property. Marital Property Versus Separate Property Separate … [Read more...]
The #1 Way to Save Money in a Divorce
There are inevitably some expenses associated with getting a divorce, but there are ways to save money. The #1 way to save money during the divorce is to be absolutely straightforward and honest with your attorney. Why it Matters to Be Scrupulously Honest with Your Attorney You may sincerely believe that it is not necessary to give certain information to your attorney. The truth … [Read more...]
Can Someone Be Too Angry For A Collaborative Divorce?
A collaborative divorce is a process where the parties to the divorce work as a team with their attorneys and various professionals, such as a tax consultant, a child psychologist, a mental health professional, and others, to resolve their issues without court intervention. It is particularly beneficial to couples with children and helps them make parenting plans agreed to by both parents. One … [Read more...]
Your Spouse Just Told You They Want a Divorce. Now What?
No matter how upsetting it may be to have your spouse tell you he or she wants a divorce, the best advice is for you to remain as calm as possible. Anything you say may haunt you later if your divorce becomes contentious and your spouse tries to use it against you. The first few days after you hear the news, consider doing the following. Keep your emotions in check. See a counselor, trusted … [Read more...]
Divorce Mistakes That Can Cost You
Some couples think they can do their own divorce without lawyers. This is called a pro se divorce, which means the party represents themselves. Often, they later discover they have made a costly mistake, particularly if there are children involved, there are un-divided assets or they had retirement benefits. For those people with uncomplicated property or no children, pro se divorce can work, but … [Read more...]