League City Divorce Lawyer
When you exchanged vows, you likely imagined a future of endless possibilities with your spouse. However, life can take unexpected turns, and sometimes, marriages end. Having a skilled League City divorce lawyer by your side is crucial if you are facing a divorce in Texas.
Divorce is not only an emotional experience, but involves complicated legal matters, especially when children or significant assets are involved. At The Stout Law Firm, PLLC, we understand these challenges, and we are here to help you get the best results for your family’s future. Our experienced divorce lawyers are dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for your situation, whether negotiating a favorable settlement or fighting for your rights in court.
Residency Requirements for a Divorce in League City, Texas
Before you can file for divorce in Texas, you or your spouse must meet the necessary residency requirements. According to Texas law, one or both spouses must have:
- Resided in Texas for at least six months before filing, and
- Lived in the county where the divorce is being filed for at least 90 days.
You can file for divorce if you and your spouse meet these requirements. If you are unsure whether you qualify, the attorneys at The Stout Law Firm, PLLC, can help clarify your situation and ensure your divorce filing meets legal standards and requirements..
What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Texas?
Texas allows for both no-fault and fault-based divorces. Most couples opt for a no-fault divorce, which does not assign blame to either spouse for the breakdown of the marriage. A no-fault divorce is based on insupportability, which means the marriage is no longer viable due discord or a conflict or personalities, and there is no chance of reconciliation.
For those considering a fault-based divorce, Texas recognizes several specific grounds, including:
- Adultery,
- Cruelty,
- Abandonment,
- Felony conviction,
- Living apart for at least three years, and
- Confinement to a mental hospital.
If you pursue a fault-based divorce, you must provide evidence to support your claim. Fault-based divorces can be more complicated and time-consuming, thereby delaying your divorce. However, proving fault may result in a more favorable outcome for you in the property division. Consult with a League City divorce lawyer at The Stout Law Firm, PLLC, to discuss your options.
Your Path to Divorce: Uncontested vs. Contested
In Texas, divorces are generally either uncontested or contested. The type of divorce you pursue depends largely on whether you and your spouse can agree on critical issues like property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support, if applicable.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree on all aspects of the divorce, including:
- Grounds for divorce,
- Division of property and debts,
- Child custody and visitation schedules, and
- Child and spousal support (if applicable).
An uncontested divorce tends to be quicker and more cost-effective because there is no need for extensive court intervention. However, even in an uncontested divorce, it is advisable to consult with a League City divorce lawyer to ensure that all legal documents are correctly prepared and accurately reflect your agreement.
After filing an Original Petition for Divorce, there is a mandatory 60-day waiting period before the court will finalize your divorce. During this time, both parties may decide on the terms of the divorce and submit a final agreement for the judge’s approval after the mandatory waiting period. Once approved, the judge will review and sign the final divorce decree.
What Is a Contested Divorce?
A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more aspects of their divorce. These disagreements often relate to property division, child custody, or financial support. Typically, in contested divorces, the court will decide how to resolve the contested issues.
The process begins when one spouse files an Original Petition for Divorce and serves the other spouse. The responding spouse must file an answer within a specified period. From there, the case may proceed through hearings, mediation, and, if necessary, a trial. At trial, both sides present their arguments and evidence to the judge, who then makes final rulings on disputed terms.
During the divorce process, the judge may issue temporary orders to govern child custody, support, the use of property, and the payment of debts while the divorce is pending. Courts often require mediation to help resolve disputes before a trial, and sometimes even before a temporary orders hearing.
Emotions can run high in a contested divorce. The stakes are high, especially when children or significant assets are involved. Our legal team will guide you through the process, fight to secure a favorable outcome, and advocate for your best interests. We will provide you with personalized attention, answer your questions promptly, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.
Contact a League City Divorce Attorney
Contact The Stout Law Firm, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation with an experienced League City divorce attorney for your League City divorce. Led by Angela Stout, a Texas Super Lawyer recognized for nine consecutive years, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation. Whether you’re pursuing an uncontested or contested divorce, we will advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.