Getting Ready for Divorce in Texas

Divorce is emotionally tough, but being prepared helps. Here’s how to approach a Texas divorce:

Talk to a Texas Divorce Lawyer

First, meet with a divorce attorney. Their guidance on Texas law and procedures will be crucial. They can advise on:

Splitting assets and debts
Spousal and child support
Custody arrangements
Legal grounds for divorce in Texas

Early legal advice empowers informed decisions.

Gather Important Documents

In Fort Bend, your divorce attorney will need documents to determine asset allocation. Be prepared to provide:

Past 3 years of tax returns
Bank and investment account statements
Information on owned property
Mortgage and credit card statements
Retirement account details

Early copies keep things moving smoothly.

Create a New Budget

Texas is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during marriage are typically split equally. But divorce brings financial changes:

Lower household income if you were dual-income
Higher costs for two separate households
Additional legal fees

Plan for these realities with a new budget. Identify what you can afford moving forward.

Discuss Custody Arrangements (if applicable)

If you have children, custody decisions should prioritize their well-being. Texas family courts consider factors like:

The parent-child relationship
Each parent’s ability to provide stability
Any history of family violence or substance abuse

Be reasonable and focus on your children’s best interests when proposing arrangements.

Take Care of Yourself

Divorce is emotionally draining. Be kind to yourself during this transition. Consider self-care strategies like:

Leaning on trusted friends and family
Continuing hobbies you enjoy
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine
Joining a support group

These steps can help avoid burnout. Don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Divorce can be challenging, but preparation with legal advice and documents helps. Most importantly, prioritize your mental and physical health. With patience and resilience, you can get through this difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in Texas, either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months. There’s no minimum time requirement for a specific county.
No-Fault vs. Fault-Based Divorce: Texas allows both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce. No-fault reasons like insupportability don’t require proof that one spouse caused the marriage’s failure.

Hiding Assets: If you suspect your spouse may hide assets, notify your lawyer. They may recommend a temporary restraining order to prevent assets from being sold or transferred during proceedings.

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