{"id":1571,"date":"2021-02-22T13:53:12","date_gmt":"2021-02-22T13:53:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/?p=1571"},"modified":"2024-02-19T07:02:58","modified_gmt":"2024-02-19T07:02:58","slug":"do-i-need-to-go-to-court-for-an-uncontested-divorce-in-texas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/uncontested-divorce-in-texas\/","title":{"rendered":"Do I Need to Go to Court for an Uncontested Divorce in Texas?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fusion-fullwidth fullwidth-box fusion-builder-row-1 fusion-flex-container nonhundred-percent-fullwidth non-hundred-percent-height-scrolling\" style=\"--awb-border-radius-top-left:0px;--awb-border-radius-top-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-right:0px;--awb-border-radius-bottom-left:0px;--awb-flex-wrap:wrap;\" ><div class=\"fusion-builder-row fusion-row fusion-flex-align-items-flex-start fusion-flex-content-wrap\" style=\"max-width:1216.8px;margin-left: calc(-4% \/ 2 );margin-right: calc(-4% \/ 2 );\"><div class=\"fusion-layout-column fusion_builder_column fusion-builder-column-0 fusion_builder_column_1_1 1_1 fusion-flex-column\" style=\"--awb-bg-size:cover;--awb-width-large:100%;--awb-margin-top-large:0px;--awb-spacing-right-large:1.92%;--awb-margin-bottom-large:0px;--awb-spacing-left-large:1.92%;--awb-width-medium:100%;--awb-spacing-right-medium:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-medium:1.92%;--awb-width-small:100%;--awb-spacing-right-small:1.92%;--awb-spacing-left-small:1.92%;\"><div class=\"fusion-column-wrapper fusion-flex-justify-content-flex-start fusion-content-layout-column\"><div class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-1\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-1568 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Prenuptial-Agreement-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Uncontested Divorce Attorney in Houston\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Prenuptial-Agreement-200x134.jpg 200w, https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Prenuptial-Agreement-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Prenuptial-Agreement-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Prenuptial-Agreement.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>In Texas, the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nchs\/fastats\/marriage-divorce.htm\">divorce rate<\/a>\u00a0is 2.9 person per 1,000 persons of the total Texas population as of 2018.<br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While divorce cases can be costly for all parties, not all divorces are created equally. Some divorces are smoother, both emotionally and financially; while others are hotly contested.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An uncontested divorce is certainly the best-case scenario.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divorce laws vary depending on the area. But in the Houston, Texas area and counties such as Fort Bend and Brazoria, the process is much simpler for those parties who can agree on their divorce terms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These cases result in less ugly fights between spouses facing a divorce. Plus, this option eliminates costly child custody battles\u2014so child issues are not dragged through the mud.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/5-steps-to-take-if-a-divorce-is-imminent\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">steps both parties can take<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to ensure everyone is on the same page. This helps the process to move right along. Overall, uncontested divorce cases allow for quicker and easier proceedings for all involved.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep reading to learn more about uncontested divorces, and when court appearances are necessary.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What Is an Uncontested Divorce?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is exactly what it sounds like. The marriage is <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/understanding-the-difference-between-contested-and-uncontested-divorce-in-texas\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ending in an uncontested manner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2014meaning without argument or disagreement from either party. Both spouses agree on all aspects of the uncontested divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These agreed-upon terms include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Child arrangements: child custody, child support, child medical support, child possession and access\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Division of property<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allocation of debts and assets<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spousal support (alimony)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The two parties come to a mutual decision about all of these aspects on their own terms. They affirm the decision with an informal divorce settlement agreement; a mediated settlement agreement; or, only the agreed divorce decree. Any of these forms are acceptable settlement documents, making the agreement legally binding, with a few exceptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, the idea of an uncontested divorce can trigger questions about \u201cfault\u201d in a divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Texas is a &#8220;no-fault&#8221; divorce state. This means a divorce can proceed without either side deemed at fault for causing the marriage to fail.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The judgment of fault comes into play when separating property, debts, and assets. It can also affect child custody rulings depending on the nature of the fault.\u00a0 Consider cruelty and abuse. Of course, these are only decided by the court in contested divorcee cases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, seeking an uncontested divorce inherently supports a no-fault divorce. If one party seeks to place the blame on the other for the dissolution of the union, in most cases, it is impossible to seek an uncontested divorce, and thus it either goes to trial, or the parties agree to fault grounds.\u00a0 Agreeing to fault grounds is quite possible when an abundance of evidence exists as to the fault, such as pictures and text messages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A true uncontested divorce meets the following terms:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both spouses agree on grounds for dissolution of marriage (or agree not to place legal fault)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both agree to end the marriage<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Neither spouse is currently involved in a bankruptcy case<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both agree on how to divide property, including debts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All other issues are resolved by agreement<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When going to court for an uncontested divorce, the events tend to be more procedural and less dramatic. These divorce cases typically save time, emotional trauma, and legal fees in comparison to contested cases.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Does It Still Qualify As \u2018Uncontested\u2019 if the Case Involves Child Custody?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, an uncontested divorce is an option, even if the case involves a child under the age of 18.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In these cases, all major child issues are agreed upon as in an uncontested divorce, including parental rights and duties; the child\u2019s residential geographic restriction, if any; child support; medical support; and, child visitation and access.\u00a0 This may be a viable option for families who seek an uncontested divorce but have minor children.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What Is a Contested Divorce?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the State of Texas, contested divorce cases are either resolved by a judge trial, or by a jury trial. A contested divorce occurs when two parties cannot agree on one or more fundamental issues in the divorce. These proceedings tend to be more drawn out than uncontested cases. They usually summon greater costs, both emotionally and financially, for both parties.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The proceedings may include a trial, mediation, and\/or arbitration. A judge or jury ultimately resolves the issues in a contested divorce case, so both parties lose much of their control in the resolution of their case, in comparison to an uncontested divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That said, typical divorce proceedings are not as dramatic as those shown on TV. Only a few days or less are actually spent in an actual courtroom. The rest of the time is spent gathering and analyzing information (discovery); creating settlement terms, including proposed property and debt division, as well as, proposed child custody and support arrangements; and, preparing witnesses and exhibits for trial.\u00a0 Accordingly, contested divorces require a significantly higher devotion of resources, financial and emotional, than uncontested divorces.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Do I Need to Go to Court for an Uncontested Divorce in Texas?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Under Texas State law, uncontested divorces typically move through the system rather quickly. Most of the actual work required for both spouses to reach an agreement on their divorce terms takes place <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.debt.org\/family\/divorce\/preparing-for-divorce-financially\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">outside of the courtroom<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually, at least one spouse will have to go in front of the judge to answer questions. This is known as a &#8220;prove up\u201d hearing. The judge will want to know that both parties truly and fully understand the consequences of their actions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divorce is a serious legal decision, with lasting consequences. Even in uncontested cases, it is up to the judge to grant the divorce, and ensure that both parties are confident in their decision. The judge will also seek to confirm that both parties are signing the agreement voluntarily, under their own free will.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, this hearing is mostly a formality and usually does not make or break the case. There is no need for a formal trial in an uncontested divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most of the time, the judge will go ahead and grant the divorce under the agreed terms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In Texas, there is a mandatory waiting period until the divorce becomes law. This period is 60 days in most cases.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&#8217;s important to note that since the COVID pandemic began, there is a possibility that the proven hearing may be virtual, involving the use of a computer or phone video.\u00a0 Harris County, Fort Bend County, Brazoria County, and other Texas counties each establish its own regulations. Note that mediations and arbitrations are also done virtually.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>How Can I Make the Process Go as Smoothly as Possible?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The easiest possible route for an uncontested divorce is when there are no children together, and no real property (a house or land) to divide.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But most cases do not fit this scenario.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To ensure an uncontested divorce case runs as smoothly as possible, it is best to contact a trusted law firm with experience in family law, such as The Alsandor Law Firm.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Legally, individuals can represent themselves in a divorce case. There are many online resources available to provide information and assistance. The Supreme Court of Texas also created self-help &#8220;kits&#8221; of paperwork for divorce.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, self-representation is highly discouraged in divorce cases. A skilled family law firm, such as The Alsandor Law Firm, will help the entire process run much more smoothly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It may also be beneficial to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">meet with a financial advisor<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> who specializes in divorce, as he or she can ensure all property, debts, and assets are divided fairly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even in uncontested cases where both parties agree on all major terms, divorce is very serious. The paperwork and legal proceedings can be confusing to the layperson.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The expertise of a lawyer with experience in the laws governing divorce in Texas can really help. This is especially true when considering child issues such as child custody, and splitting up debts and assets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In cases of economic hardship, one may choose &#8220;limited scope representation.&#8221; This is where a lawyer does not represent their client in a courtroom, but provides legal advice, and prepares and reviews legal documents.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What Happens After Court?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general, court proceedings may vary between Texas counties, and between cases.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the paperwork is filed and the filing fees are paid, there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period. This is also sometimes deemed a \u201ccooling-off period\u201d before a divorce can be completed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is required even when going to court for an uncontested divorce. After this waiting period, there is a final hearing, or \u201cprove up\u201d to finalize the process. If granted, the judge signs a Final Decree of Divorce to officially dissolve the marriage.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From this point, both parties are no longer married to each other in the eyes of the law. They are separate entities, legally and financially, and are bound under the terms of the divorce agreement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State laws vary, but after a divorce in Texas, both parties are ineligible to enter a new marriage for at least 31 days.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What to Know Before Going to Court for an <a href=\"\/divorce\/\">Uncontested Divorce in Houston, Texas<\/a><\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Though they do not make headlines like contested cases, amicable divorces are more common than one may think.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, this does not diminish the seriousness of these proceedings. Even in uncontested divorce cases, there are many serious lasting consequences to consider.\u00a0 Splitting up property and child custody are just two examples of the important decisions to consider.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hiring a trusted family law firm, such as The Alsandor Law Firm, is the best bet for ensuring a divorce case is handled smoothly and fairly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/contact-us\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contact The Alsandor Law\u00a0 Firm<\/span><\/a>, an experienced <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">family law firm, in the Houston, Texas area to help you make the most of your uncontested divorce.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1571"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1571"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1571\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2126,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1571\/revisions\/2126"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1571"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1571"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alsandorlaw.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1571"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}