Divorce in Texas: A Guide to Navigating the Process with The Edgett Law Firm by Your Side

At The Edgett Law Firm, we understand that divorce is one of the most challenging and emotional experiences a person can go through. Whether you are considering filing for divorce or have been served with divorce papers, you may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, and even scared about what the future holds. You are not alone. Our family law team is here to guide you through every step of the process with compassion, skill, and dedication.

Serving Collin County and Denton County, our experienced family law team is committed to protecting your rights, your children, and your future. Divorce is more than just a legal process, it’s a major life transition. Let us help you navigate it with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Divorce in Texas

Texas is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that you don’t need to prove wrongdoing by your spouse to end your marriage. However, fault-based divorces can still be filed under specific circumstances, such as adultery or cruelty, which may impact property division.

Each divorce is unique, but the general process follows these key steps:

1. 1. Filing for Divorce – The divorce process begins when one spouse (the Petitioner) files an Original Petition for Divorce with the district court in the county where they or their spouse (the Respondent) reside. If you live in Collin County or Denton County, your case will likely be filed in the family courts of those jurisdictions. To file for divorce in Texas, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months and in the county where they file for at least 90 days.
2. Serving Your Spouse – After filing, the other spouse must be officially served with divorce papers. This can be done through a process server, sheriff, or in some cases, by mutual agreement. The Respondent then has a specific timeframe to file a response. If your spouse refuses to participate, we can help you navigate a default divorce, which allows the court to proceed even if they don’t respond.
3. Temporary Orders – Divorce cases often involve temporary orders to establish rules regarding:
   1. Child custody and visitation
   2. Spousal support (alimony)
   3. Use of marital property (home, vehicles, bank accounts)
   4. Payment of household bills
   5. These temporary family law orders help prevent disputes and provide stability while the divorce is pending.
4. Discovery Process – In contested divorces, both parties may need to exchange information through discovery. This process ensures transparency regarding finances, assets, debts, and other relevant issues. Discovery tools include:
   1. Written questions (interrogatories)
   2. Requests for documents (bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs)
   3. Depositions (formal questioning under oath)
   4. Our firm will ensure that your spouse provides full and fair disclosure so you receive what you’re legally entitled to.
5. Negotiation and Mediation – Most Texas divorces do not go to trial. Instead, spouses and their attorneys work to reach a fair agreement on issues such as:
   1. Property and debt division – Texas follows community property laws, meaning most assets acquired during the marriage are split 50/50 unless an agreement or special circumstances dictate otherwise.
   2. Child custody and support – Texas courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody and visitation. Child support is calculated using state guidelines.
   3. Spousal maintenance (alimony) – While not automatic by law and not common in Collin County and Denton County, spousal support may be awarded in certain cases, such as long-term marriages or situations involving a spouse with disabilities.
   4. Mediation is a popular way to resolve disputes outside of court, and in most courts, including Collin and Denton, it may be required before trial or your time during trial may be reduced. Our family law firm team will aggressively negotiate to protect your interests while encouraging fair resolutions that avoid unnecessary conflict.
6. Finalizing the Divorce – Once all issues are resolved, or after a court hearing if necessary, a Final Decree of Divorce is signed by a judge. Texas has a mandatory 60-day waiting period from the filing date before a divorce can be finalized, though contested divorces may take much much longer.

Once the judge signs the decree, your divorce is officially complete, and you can move forward with a fresh start in your life.

Why Choose The Edgett Law Firm?

At The Edgett Law Firm, we recognize that every divorce case is different. Some cases require aggressive representation in court, while others benefit from a collaborative approach to reduce stress and conflict on the parties and the children. Whatever your situation, our goal is to provide personalized legal support that puts your needs first. Here is how our family law team does this during our representation of you in Collin County and Denton County:

• Compassionate Guidance – We listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and provide clear, practical advice throughout the process.
• Strong Advocacy – Whether negotiating a settlement or fighting for you in court, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and future.
• Local Experience – We know the family courts, judges, and legal procedures in Collin County and Denton County, giving you an advantage in your case.

Get the Support You Need Today

If you’re facing divorce in Collin County or Denton County, you don’t have to go through it alone. The Edgett Law Firm is here to provide the guidance and representation you need to secure the best possible outcome.

Call us today at 972-424-0760 or visit www.EdgettLawFirm.com to fill out our online contact form  to schedule a confidential family law divorce consultation with our team of experienced litigation attorneys. Let us help you start the next chapter of your life with confidence and happiness! You deserve a fresh start!