There are many points in Texas divorce laws that can lead you to believe divorce will be fast, easy, and without complications. However, there are reasons you need divorce lawyers in Spring TX.
Facts About Divorce In Texas
As a community property state, property that was acquired during your marriage belongs equally to each person. As a no-fault divorce state, you do not need to provide or prove any grounds for the divorce.
There is no period of separation required before filing for a divorce. The only actual requirement is meeting the period of residency. Residency is a minimum of six months in Texas, and ninety days in the county where you file.
Why You Need An Attorney
Fast and simple does not always mean fast and simple. Many complications can arise if you do not have a lawyer. There are plenty of reason you should not file a do-it-yourself divorce.
One example is alimony. Although alimony is not required in a Texas divorce case, your spouse may claim reasons for requesting it. You may end up paying alimony, even if your spouse is not truly entitled to it.
Second, a no-fault divorce in Texas does not mean fault cannot be stated. If your spouse chooses to approach divorce in this manner, your reputation may be permanently damaged.
Third, Texas allows children aged twelve and older to choose the parent with whom he wishes to live. Although the court has the option of overriding this request, it is a complication you do not want to deal with during your divorce. It could result in irreparable harm to your relationship with your children, as well as ongoing custody battles.
Fourth, marital property is not always easy to determine. You may have owned certain possessions or assets before you married, or have something that was given to you as a personal gift. You do not want to risk your spouse claiming these items are community property.
Fifth, hiring a lawyer is essential because you do not know if your spouse has hired one. You may approach a do-it-yourself divorce in good faith, and find your spouse has consulted with an attorney. Without your own lawyer, you will give up your rights and possibly much more.
The wisest approach to a Texas divorce is having your own legal representation. Filing for divorce without a lawyer is never in your best interest.