Making the decision to file for a divorce can leave you feeling overwhelmed and not sure of what to do next. As a Bryan, Texas law firm that’s been serving Brazos County families for over 20 years, trust us – those feelings are completely normal to have.
With so many thoughts and questions flowing through your head, the importance of having an understanding of what to expect as you go through the steps of getting a divorce can’t be overstated enough.
A good divorce attorney in Bryan, Texas will walk you through the entire process, answer any questions you may have, and help you safeguard your and your family’s rights. To help you prepare for your divorce and relieve some stress, the team of Texas divorce attorneys at C.E. Borman & Associates put together a list of the most common questions and answers in a Texas divorce in this blog.
Top 10 Most Common Questions And Answers In A Texas Divorce
1. Who should file first in Texas?
Firstly, in the state of Texas, it actually doesn’t matter who files for divorce first. However, it can set the tone of your divorce by who files first by pleading fault or no fault.
If it is an amicable or planned divorce between you and your spouse, you can always consult with an attorney first to see who should file first for the divorce.
2. How long does it take to get a divorce in Texas?
Secondly, unfortunately, divorce in Texas can be a long process. On average, it takes about six months to one year to finalize a divorce, however, this all depends on how complex the divorce is, dividing of assets, and figuring out parental rights and custody.
There is a waiting period of 60 days in Texas in which a divorce can not be finalized for 60 days after the petition is filed. An exception may be a case in which domestic violence is involved.
3. What is a no-fault divorce in Texas?
Thirdly, most divorce cases in Texas are no-fault divorces. A no-fault divorce means that either spouse does not have to prove to the court that their marriage condition warrants a divorce. This simply means you can file for divorce just because you want to.
A fault-based divorce will typically fall under the following categories:
- Abandonment
- Adultery
- Cruelty
- Felony conviction
4. How long do you have to be separated in Texas?
In Texas, you do not need to legally separate for a period of time before filing for divorce. However, you do have to reside in Texas for six months and reside in a county for 90 days.
5. Can you get a divorce in Bryan, Texas without an attorney?
The short answer is yes. However, you need to file an uncontested divorce or simply an amicable divorce. This means that both parties need to agree on all terms of the divorce.
6. Are social media posts used in divorce cases?
Another thing to consider is social media. Because social media is something that is used daily, this has now become one of the most common questions. Yes, absolutely.
Any of your social media posts can be used as evidence in court. This includes photos, posts, videos, location tags, and messages, so exercise caution when it comes to using social media during a divorce, especially one that involves children. Social media can affect child custody agreements, too.
7. What is community property in Texas?
Community property in Texas means that if a married couple owns an asset such as a house, and this house was purchased during their marriage, both parties equally own that house or asset.
8. How is child support calculated in Texas?
Child support in Texas is calculated by the percentage of income and number of children. These numbers are based on a net income of $7500 per month or less. Here is the breakdown of what to expect;
1 child = 20% of net income
2 children = 25% of net income
3 children = 30% of net income
4 children = 35% of net income
5 children = 40% of net income
6 children = no less than 40% OF net income
Also, the court can adjust these numbers based on the best interest of the child or children. Things to consider would be the age of the child or children, special needs or services, daycare, or after-school care.
9. What if I was married in another state. Can I still get divorced in Texas?
Yes, if you were married in another state you can file for a divorce in Texas. The only requirement is that you must be living in the state of Texas for a least 6 months before filing for a divorce.
10. How does spousal support work in Texas?
In Texas, spousal support is called spousal maintenance and either spouse can request spousal maintenance. However, there are certain requirements that you must meet in order to receive spousal maintenance.
- The spouse was convicted of domestic abuse
- The spouse who is seeking spousal maintenance is unable to earn enough income to support themselves because of a physical or mental disability
- The couple has been married for ten years or more and the spouse requesting maintenance lacks the ability to earn an income to support their basic needs
- The partner is unable to work due to a child with a disability and is unable to earn an income because they are the child’s caretaker
What to do next? Any more questions?
We hope this article explains the top most common questions and answers in a Texas divorce. If you have more questions or you are looking to file for divorce and need additional support and help, it’s important that you find a good divorce attorney that you can trust and can answer all your questions and assist you through the entire process.
C.E. Borman & Associates has been serving the Brazos Valley for more than 20 years and has remained steadfast in our mission to provide straight talk and honest advice.
We know divorce is tough, but we’re tougher, and we are committed to providing exceptional value to our clients and making life-long, remarkable changes that benefit future generations.
If you are in need of a divorce or family law attorney, contact us or give us a call, at 979-200-4725.
