Divorce Overview

How Do You Choose the Right Divorce Process?

Whether your divorce is resolved through Collaborative Divorce, Mediation, or Litigation, the process you choose can affect the time, cost, privacy, and overall experience of your divorce. Paula Lock Smyth helps clients understand their options and determine the approach that best fits their circumstances and goals.

Every family is different, and there is no single approach that is right for every divorce. Some couples are able to work together to reach agreements outside the courtroom, while others require the court’s assistance to resolve disputes. Understanding the available options can help you make informed decisions from the very beginning of your case.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative Divorce is designed for couples who are committed to resolving their divorce through cooperation rather than courtroom litigation. Each spouse is represented by a Collaborative Divorce attorney, and everyone agrees to work together in good faith to reach mutually acceptable solutions. This process allows families to address issues such as property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance in a private, respectful setting.

Mediation

Mediation is another way to resolve divorce issues outside of court. During Mediation, a neutral mediator helps the parties discuss their differences and explore possible solutions, while each spouse receives legal advice from his or her own attorney. In many Texas divorce cases, Mediation is encouraged or required before a case proceeds to trial and can help families reach agreements without leaving the final decision about your future to a judge or jury.

Litigation

Some divorces cannot be resolved through negotiation alone. When spouses are unable to communicate and reach agreements or when significant disputes exist, litigation may be necessary. Litigation allows the court to decide issues involving property division, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and other contested matters. Paula is an experienced trial attorney who represents clients throughout the litigation process while working to protect their rights and advocate for their interests.

Experienced Guidance for Every Divorce Process

With more than 30 years of family law experience, Paula Lock Smyth helps clients understand the advantages and considerations of each divorce process. Whether your case is best suited for Collaborative Divorce, Mediation, or litigation, she will explain your options, answer your questions, and provide experienced legal representation every step of the way.

Learn More About Your Divorce Options

Choosing the right divorce process can have a lasting impact on your future. Contact Paula Lock Smyth Law Offices at 214-420-1800 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and discuss the approach that best fits your family’s needs.

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What People are Saying

Shana Swint

If we could give Paula and Courtney 10 STARS, we would. We required something custody-related and required it in VERY short order, and Paula and Courtney turned our documents for the court around NEXT DAY. Not only were they knowledgeable, but they were friendly and courteous and respectful of our situation and our timeline. Gold star service, 100%, and we look forward to continuing our attorney-client relationship for any future family legal matters.

Amber Ramirez

Grateful for the guidance provided by Paula and Courtney throughout my divorce process. From the very beginning, they were professional, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable about family law. What could have been an overwhelming and stressful situation was handled with patience, clarity, and genuine care. Together, they made a difficult life event much more manageable. I’m grateful for their professionalism, dedication, and compassion during such an important time. I would absolutely recommend this team to anyone needing experienced and supportive representation in family law matters.

travis gilliam

There comes a moment when you need someone to speak for you. I ended up in a predicament where I felt completely overwhelmed and confused. Paula was the best decision I could’ve possibly made. I spoke with Courtney, her paralegal, when I initially called her legal practice. She was well-organized, professional, and able to quickly grasp the situation. Paula and Courtney persisted in asking insightful questions about my circumstances throughout the process, which would eventually result in a well-considered defense. I had to go to court after Paula helped me navigate the mediation, which regrettably did not settle the matter. With the documentation provided, Paula was able to generate a strategy for the hearing that was straightforward and organized. I greatly benefited from her professionalism and knowledge of courtroom procedures during the actual hearing. Paula was able to represent me professionally while maintaining my composure and mental clarity. She won my case thanks to her successful strategy. If you're searching for a qualified attorney, I suggest Paula lock Smyth.

Matthew White

Hands-down, they were very easy to work with. Courtney really made this whole experience easy for me and was very knowledgeable, she constantly kept me updated as soon has she had new info for me. 10/10 I would recommend calling them for your legal problems. I truly wish I could give them more than 5 stars.

Melissa Munoz

Paula and Courtney did an amazing job in helping me with my divorce! I found them through my job benefits and reading the reviews I went with them. They got me divorced so fast and didn't have to show up to court. I would recommend them to anyone!!!

Keri D

Paula and her paralegal Courtney have been nothing short of incredible. They have walked with me through one of the most difficult and emotional times of my life with compassion, strength, and unwavering support. Paula is honest, knowledgeable, and has been a true advocate for myself and my kids. She never tells you just what you want to hear. She tells you what you need to hear, and she does it with care and clarity. Courtney has been equally amazing. She is always responsive, organized, and supportive. Together, they made me feel heard, informed, and genuinely cared for. I never felt like just another case to them. They took the time to understand my situation and went above and beyond to protect what mattered most. If you are looking for a family law team who will not only fight for you but truly care about your well being and future, I cannot recommend Paula and Courtney enough. I am forever grateful for what they have each done for me and my children.

Erika Escobedo

Going through a divorce process can be very hard. I want to thank Paula and Courtney for their thorough guidance and patience. If you are looking for an attorney I highly recommend contacting them. Thank you Paula and Courtney once again!

Vanessa George

Going through any transitional period can be hard, but Paula and Courtney made the divorce process smooth and easy (uncontested, with kids). I initially found Paula via a work benefit website, read her reviews, and spoke with her to discuss the process. She was clear, concise, and direct, which I appreciated. She and Courtney have been very quick and helpful with their replies to my questions. The experience has been efficient and pretty stress-free, which I greatly appreciate in an otherwise stressful time! Thanks ladies! ETA: Courtney was so sweet to call me after hours and update me that the decree had been signed. She knew I was anxiously awaiting the news, and I appreciate her taking that time to give me the news when she did. They've been great!