How do I file for divorce in Texas? Seems like a simple, straightforward question. Should be an easy answer, right? Well, yes and no, and it depends.
The process itself is relatively simple in an ideal situation: file a petition for divorce, deal with some forms, work out and agree how to split things, pass a mandatory 60 day waiting period, and get your final decree of divorce granted by the court. Life isn’t always simple though, and a situation involving divorce probably feels less than ideal. Then add children, complex division of assets, or an uncooperative spouse into the mix, and the “it depends” factor multiplies.
My recommendation for most – just hire a lawyer. A good divorce attorney is there to help you, and to also assist in protecting your best legal interests. Family laws are complex and subject to changes from year to year. Not something you want to be dabbling in learning yourself to try and save a little money. That would be like thinking about doing a little surgery on yourself, because you think you can get it right after maybe watching a few YouTube videos. Some things we leave best to the professionals that do it every day.
That said however, for the do-it-yourselfer or those interested in reading some more excellent educational information, TexasLawHelp.org offers free Divorce Toolkits and a wealth of other resources.
We also offer our own Divorce Self-Protection Checklist available as a free download. Get it here:
