How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas

May 5, 2023 Amanda

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas

Type of Divorce	Minimum Timeframe	Average Timeframe	Maximum Timeframe
Uncontested Divorce	60 days	61-90 days	up to 6 months
Contested Divorce	60 days (waiting period) + 1 day (hearing) = 61 days	6-12 months	1-2 years or longer
Collaborative Divorce	60 days	3-9 months	up to 1 year
Mediated Divorce	60 days	2-6 months	up to 1 year

Overview of Divorce in Texas

Once you decide on which type of divorce you want to pursue, there are several steps involved in obtaining a divorce in Texas:

Filing an Original Petition for Divorce
Serving your Spouse with Divorce Papers
Temporary Orders Hearing
Discovery Process
Negotiating Settlements or Preparing Your Case For Trial
The Final Trial (if necessary)

The length of time it takes to complete each step varies depending on individual circumstances such as contested vs uncontested divorces or whether both parties can agree on matters such as property division or child custody arrangements. Typically though, if everything goes smoothly without any major disputes between spouses during settlement negotiations then most couples will get divorced within six months from start to finish.

Definition of Divorce

Before delving into the intricacies of divorce in Texas, it is important to understand what divorce actually means. A divorce is a legal dissolution of marriage by a court or other competent body. In simpler terms, it refers to the end of a marriage between two people.

In Texas, there are two types of divorces:

Uncontested Divorce: This type of divorce occurs when both parties agree on all issues surrounding their separation and can come up with mutually agreed-upon solutions for division of property, spousal support, child custody and visitation rights.
Contested Divorce: If one or more issues cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation then the case will proceed as contested where each spouse may need to hire lawyers to represent them in court.

The latter generally takes longer because not only does it involve litigation but also additional time-consuming steps such as discovery processes that help both parties gather evidence necessary for trial. It’s essential that you know which type applies to your situation so you can prepare accordingly.

Types of Divorce

There are also other types of divorces that you might encounter:

No-Fault Divorce: In this type of divorce, neither party has to prove that the other is at fault for the marriage ending. Instead, they must simply state that their marriage has become “insupportable” due to conflicts or differences they can’t resolve.
Limited Divorce: Also known as legal separation, this option allows couples who don’t want a full-blown divorce to separate legally while still remaining married. They can live apart and divide assets but remain married according to state law.

It’s important to understand your options when it comes to filing for divorce so you can choose the best path forward for your specific situation.

Common Grounds for Divorce

Note that these are just some common examples – there may be other specific situations where you could also file based on fault or no-fault grounds. Your attorney can help guide you through the process and determine which option is best suited for your unique circumstances.

Filing for Divorce in Texas

Once these initial steps have been completed, there will be additional requirements depending on whether or not your divorce is contested:

Uncontested Divorce: If both parties agree on all issues surrounding their separation then they can sign a settlement agreement outlining how they will divide assets and debts and establish custody arrangements. This agreement must be approved by the judge before finalizing the divorce.
Contested Divorce: In this case, negotiations between each party’s lawyers may take place in order to reach mutually acceptable terms regarding child support payments or division of property. If no agreements can be made after negotiation then hearings or trials may occur where each side presents evidence supporting their claims related to issues such as spousal support payments or asset division decisions before receiving a final ruling from the court.

The length of time it takes to complete all aspects of divorce proceedings depends largely upon individual circumstances but typically ranges from around six months up until two years or more if complex legal issues arise during trial proceedings

Residency Requirements

If you don’t meet these requirements, you may need to wait until you do before proceeding with your divorce. It’s important to note that if both spouses are not residents of Texas but they got married there, they can still file for a divorce in Texas as long as either one meets the residency requirement.

In cases where one or both spouses live outside of Texas but own property within state lines, it’s also possible to file for a “long-arm” jurisdiction which allows Texans courts to exercise jurisdiction over out-of-state residents under certain circumstances such as having property located within state borders.

Filing Process

After filing, the petitioner must serve their spouse with a copy of the petition along with a citation that explains they have been sued. Once served, there is a 20-day deadline by which the respondent must file an answer to either agree or contest what is written in the petition.

If both parties agree on all terms then they can move forward with an uncontested divorce. However, if any issues are contested then additional steps will be necessary such as mediation or trial to determine how those issues will be resolved.

Serving the Divorce Petition

Note that if after diligent search efforts have been made but still no way has been found to notify the other party, then service by posting at courthouse may also be allowed under certain circumstances.
After serving divorce papers on your spouse, he/she has up to 21 days (or more depending on how far away he/she lives) from being served with such notice within which time he/she must file an answer with the court if he intends contesting any aspect of the divorce proceeding; otherwise default judgment may be entered against him/her if no response is received within such period as specified by law.

Waiting Periods for Divorce in Texas

When filing for divorce in Texas, there are certain waiting periods that you should be aware of:

60-Day Waiting Period: In Texas, there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the time your Original Petition for Divorce is filed before a divorce can be finalized. This means that even if all issues have been resolved and agreed upon by both parties, the court cannot grant the divorce until after this period has elapsed.
Cooling-Off Period: If there are minor children involved in the divorce proceedings, then Texas requires a 90-day “cooling-off” period between when the petition is filed and when it can be granted. During this time, spouses are encouraged to attempt reconciliation and seek counseling services to work on their relationship.

Note that these waiting periods do not include any additional time needed for litigation or other legal processes which may extend the timeline significantly depending on how complicated your case is.

Overview of Waiting Periods

It’s important to note that while these waiting periods exist, they do not guarantee that your divorce will be finalized within a specific timeframe. The length of time it takes to complete each step varies depending on individual circumstances such as contested vs uncontested divorces or whether both parties can agree on matters such as property division or child custody arrangements.

If you have questions about how long your divorce may take or what steps you need to follow, consulting with an experienced family law attorney in Texas is recommended so they can provide guidance based on your unique situation.

Waiving Waiting Periods

It’s important to note that waiving the waiting period won’t necessarily make your divorce any faster because there may still be other steps involved in finalizing your case such as property division agreements or child custody arrangements. Therefore, it’s essential that you consult with an experienced attorney who can guide you through every step of the process.

Factors Affecting Waiting Periods

While there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized in Texas, the actual length of time it takes for your divorce to be granted may vary. Here are some factors that affect waiting periods:

The court’s caseload: If the court has many cases on its docket, it could take longer for your case to be heard.
Contested vs Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce with no disputes will likely proceed more quickly than a contested one where spouses cannot agree on major issues such as property division and child custody.
Complexity of Issues: The more complex the issues involved in your case, the longer it will likely take for your divorce to be finalized.

If you’re looking to speed up the process, make sure you work with an experienced attorney who knows how to navigate Texas’ legal system and can help you resolve any disputes as quickly as possible.

Contested Divorce in Texas

If you are going through a contested divorce in Texas, it’s essential that you work with an experienced family law attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your interests.

The process for a contested divorce in Texas generally involves several steps:

Filing for Divorce: One spouse must file an Original Petition for Divorce with the court to start the process.
Serving Your Spouse: The other spouse must be served with copies of all paperwork related to the divorce by an authorized server such as a constable or private process server.
Temporary Orders Hearing: A hearing is conducted where temporary orders are made regarding issues such as child custody arrangements, spousal support payments and restraining orders while waiting for finalization of divorce proceedings.
Discovery Process: Both parties exchange relevant information about financial assets, debts and any other evidence that may be used during trial preparation phase. This could take weeks or months depending on complexity of case.

If negotiations fail after discovery then both sides will prepare their cases and head to trial which could take years before completion. It’s important to note that hiring a qualified attorney can make this entire process much easier because they have experience dealing with these types of situations regularly.

Definition of Contested Divorce

In cases like these, it’s usually necessary to hire attorneys who can represent each spouse in court and help them navigate the litigation process. This is often a much longer process than uncontested divorces because courts are involved in making decisions about how assets will be divided, what kind of child custody agreement will be put into place, and other matters that might require input from outside experts such as psychologists or financial advisors.

If you’re considering filing for divorce in Texas, it’s important to understand whether your situation falls under this category so that you can prepare accordingly. You’ll need to have all your documentation ready including financial records and any evidence that supports your position on various issues such as division of property or child custody arrangements.

Common Issues in Contested Divorces

These issues can be further complicated if you or your spouse have high net worth or complex assets such as businesses or investments that require specialized knowledge to value and divide equitably. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through these contentious matters and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Length of Time for Contested Divorces

In Texas, most contested divorces take between six months and two years from start to finish. However, some cases can drag on for even longer if they are particularly complex or contentious.

Uncontested Divorce in Texas

The process itself is relatively straightforward:

File an Original Petition for Divorce with the court clerk’s office in the county where you or your spouse reside. You will need to pay a filing fee that varies by county but usually ranges from $250-$350.
Serve your spouse with copies of the petition along with any other required documents such as financial statements within 60 days after filing. They’ll then have 20 days to respond once served.
If everything goes smoothly, both parties can sign a Final Decree of Divorce which details how property is divided and outlines agreements about child custody, visitation rights etc., This document gets filed with the court clerk’s office making it official that you are divorced under Texas law!

Definition of Uncontested Divorce

An uncontested divorce is a type of divorce in which both parties agree on all issues surrounding their separation. They can come up with mutually agreed-upon solutions for division of property, spousal support, child custody and visitation rights without the need for court intervention.

Here are some benefits of an uncontested divorce:

Faster Process: Uncontested divorces typically take less time to complete than contested ones because there is no need for litigation or discovery processes.
Cost-Effective: Since there’s no need to hire lawyers or go through protracted legal proceedings, the costs associated with an uncontested divorce tend to be lower.
Limited Stress: Divorce can be a stressful and emotional process but if both parties agree on everything then it will reduce stress levels significantly as compared to a contested case where each party may feel like they’re fighting against each other.

If you think that you and your spouse can work together amicably throughout the entire divorce process then this might be the right option for you.

Benefits of Uncontested Divorce

An experienced family law attorney can help guide you through the process of pursuing an uncontested divorce while ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to protect your interests throughout the proceedings.

Timeline for Uncontested Divorce

All in all, if everything goes smoothly without any major disputes between spouses during settlement negotiations then most couples will get divorced within six months from start to finish. It’s important to note that each case is unique and some cases may take longer or shorter depending on individual circumstances such as contested vs uncontested divorces or whether both parties can agree on matters such as property division or child custody arrangements.

Factors That Affect the Length of a Divorce in Texas

In general, it’s difficult to predict exactly how long your particular divorce process will take since each situation is unique. However, hiring an experienced attorney may help speed up some aspects of your case while also ensuring that everything proceeds fairly and legally within your best interests.

Complexity of Assets and Debts

This entire process can take several months or even years if both parties cannot come to an agreement. It’s always advisable to hire an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through this complicated process while ensuring that your rights are protected at all times.

Child Custody and Support

When it comes to divorce in Texas, child custody and support are among the most important issues that need to be addressed. Here are some things you should know:

Child Custody: In Texas, there are two types of custody – legal and physical. Legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make decisions regarding their child’s upbringing while physical custody refers to where the child will live. Parents can have joint or sole custody depending on what is in the best interest of their children.
Child Support: The amount of child support paid by one parent to another depends on various factors such as each parent’s income, expenses related to raising the children, and other specific needs for childcare such as medical costs or extracurricular activities. Child support payments must continue until a child turns 18 years old or graduates from high school (whichever occurs later).

If you’re considering divorce in Texas and have children involved, it’s critical that you work with an experienced family law attorney who can help protect your rights as well as those of your children.

Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

When filing for a divorce in Texas, mediation and settlement negotiations can play a significant role. It’s important to understand what each of these terms mean:

Mediation: Mediation is a process by which both parties involved in the divorce come together with an impartial third party (the mediator) to discuss their issues and try to reach mutually acceptable agreements on things like child custody, property division, spousal support, etc.
Settlement Negotiations: Settlement negotiations are discussions between spouses or their attorneys aimed at resolving conflicts surrounding key issues such as alimony payments or property division. These negotiations occur outside of court proceedings and can be informal or formal depending on the situation.

In many cases, mediation and settlement negotiations can help couples avoid lengthy legal battles that could take months or even years to resolve. If you’re considering filing for divorce in Texas, it’s worth exploring your options when it comes to settling disputes out of court before proceeding down more costly paths.

Court Scheduling and Availability

In Texas, some courts offer alternative dispute resolution (ADR) options such as mediation and arbitration. These methods can help couples come to agreements outside of the courtroom and avoid lengthy litigation processes. However, keep in mind that these methods still require scheduling and availability considerations.

To ensure you get a court date that works for you and your spouse’s schedule while also considering the above factors, it’s best to work with an experienced divorce attorney who knows how the local courts operate.

Tips for Expediting the Divorce Process in Texas

You might also consider hiring a qualified family law attorney who is experienced in Texas divorce law. They will be able to guide you through each step of the process and provide you with helpful advice on how best to proceed. Additionally, they may be able to negotiate a settlement more efficiently than if you were representing yourself.

If both parties agree on all issues surrounding their separation then an uncontested divorce will take less time than contested one. In this case, it’s important that both parties work together towards resolving any disputes so they don’t end up having their case go before a judge which can significantly slow down proceedings.

Hiring an Experienced Divorce Attorney

In conclusion, while it is possible to file for divorce without representation from an attorney, doing so could put you at risk of making costly mistakes. Hiring a skilled divorce lawyer who specializes in family law matters will help ensure that your interests are protected and increase the likelihood of achieving favorable outcomes in negotiations or litigation if required.

Being Prepared and Organized

When it comes to divorce in Texas, being prepared and organized can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some steps you can take:

Gather important documents: Make sure to collect all financial documents such as tax returns, bank statements, investment accounts, retirement account information, insurance policies and any other documentation that proves ownership or value.
Make an inventory list: This includes household items like furniture, appliances and personal property. Be sure to document their approximate values for equitable division purposes.
Create a parenting plan: If you have children involved in the divorce then creating a comprehensive parenting plan will help ensure their needs are met during this transition time.

In addition to these steps, hiring an experienced family law attorney is highly recommended. They can provide valuable guidance throughout the entire process and help you navigate through complex legal issues so that you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Avoiding Unnecessary Delays

You should also consider hiring an experienced Texas divorce lawyer who will guide you through each step of the process while ensuring that everything is done correctly and efficiently. Additionally, working with a mediator might help resolve any disputes without having to go through litigation which would prolong the entire process.

The key takeaway is that divorces take time but by being prepared and staying organized throughout the proceedings you can avoid unnecessary delays and reduce stress.

Conclusion

Divorce is never an easy process, but knowing what to expect can help ease some of the stress involved. In Texas, there are specific steps you need to take in order to obtain a divorce and different types of divorces available depending on your situation.

Remember that every case is unique and can vary in length depending on various factors such as whether or not children are involved or if the divorce is contested or uncontested. However, understanding the basics about divorce procedures can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

If you’re considering filing for a divorce in Texas, be sure to consult with a qualified attorney who will guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected throughout each stage.

Recap of Key Points

The length of time it takes to complete each step involved in obtaining a divorce varies depending on individual circumstances such as whether both parties can agree on matters such as property division or child custody arrangements. Typically though, if everything goes smoothly without any major disputes between spouses during settlement negotiations then most couples will get divorced within six months from start to finish. It’s important to understand your options when it comes to filing for divorce so you can choose the best path forward for your specific situation.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In conclusion, while there is no definite answer to how long a divorce takes in Texas since it varies depending on individual circumstances but being aware of the different types of divorces available, understanding the laws surrounding them and having access to competent legal counsel will help ensure that your process goes smoothly from start to finish.

FAQ on ‘How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas’

Q: What factors can affect the length of a divorce case in Texas?

A: The complexity of the case, the number of issues that need to be resolved, and whether the parties are able to reach an agreement outside of court can all affect how long it takes to finalize a divorce in Texas.

Q: Is there any way to expedite a divorce case in Texas?

A: In some cases, a judge may grant an expedited hearing if there is an emergency or other urgent circumstances. However, this is relatively rare and most divorces will take at least several months to complete.

Q: Can I get a divorce without going to court in Texas?

A: It is possible to avoid going to court by reaching an agreement with your spouse outside of court through mediation or collaborative law. However, even if you are able to settle all issues amicably, you will still need to file paperwork with the court and attend at least one hearing before your divorce can be finalized.

Q: How can I ensure my divorce case moves forward as quickly as possible?

A: Hiring an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and help you navigate any challenges that arise can often help streamline your divorce case and ensure it moves forward as quickly as possible.