Trustworthy Attorney Serving Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, Rockwall & Denton Counties
At The Gauthier Law Firm, we understand that the divorce process is incredibly difficult and stressful. No matter the reasons you and your spouse have decided to part ways, dissolving your marriage takes considerable and careful effort. If you have children with your spouse, the choices you make can directly impact their lives as well as your own. Our divorce attorneys are committed to helping our clients make the best decisions while protecting your rights throughout divorce litigation.
To get started with a consultation, give us a call at 214-377-0786.
Skillful Counsel for Every Type of Divorce
Whether you are going through a contested divorce, a high-asset divorce, or any other type of divorce case, there are a number of issues which will need to be addressed. If you and your spouse are able to stay amicable and come to decisions on your own, such as who will take care of your children or who will keep what, it makes the divorce process easier. However, this is often not possible and the decisions may be left in the judge's hands.
Our firm has the necessary experience to help you with:
- Visitation
- Child custody
- Child support
- Property division
- Guardianship
- Alimony (post divorce maintenance)
Grounds for Divorce in Texas
Texas has provisions for both no-fault and fault-based grounds to divorce in the states
A no-fault divorce means that the marriage is broken beyond repair. This is filed under “insupportability”. Neither spouse needs to prove any kind of fault in the other spouse to file for this type of divorce.
However, Texas has several other options for a couple to file for divorce, which include:
- Separation – The married couple has not lived together for three or more years
- Mental incapacity – If one spouse is in a mental hospital for three years or more and is unlikely to recover, then the other spouse can use this as a grounds for divorce
- Abandonment – When one spouse intentionally leaves the other for one year or more
- Cruelty
- Felony conviction
- Proven adultery
Does Texas Have Legal Separation?
Texas is one of the few states that does not have a process for legal separation.
Legal separation – In many states, this is an alternative step to divorce that couples can take to avoid ending the marriage completely. Instead, it allows the couple to separate without divorcing but still decide on matters such as property division, custody, support, etc. Basically, it allows a couple to continue receiving the benefits that a legal marriage provides while living apart.
In Texas, the only recognized method for separation is divorce. Sometimes a couple will go through a period of an informal separation, however, attorneys can only do so much to help with disputed matters during that time since Texas doesn't recognize legal separation.
Don't hesitate to contact our firm if you have further questions about the divorce process in Texas.
Is Texas a 50/50 State for Divorce?
Texas is considered a “community property” state. This means that property and debt acquired from the date of the marriage will be split equally between each spouse if each party is unable to reach an agreement before the court. The division should be fair and equitable. On rare occasions there will not be an equal divide, when factors such as unequal earning power and fault in the relationship are brought to the court's attention.
Work with an Experienced Divorce Firm in Dallas County
At The Gauthier Law Firm, we know that every individual and divorce case is unique, which is why we offer representation tailored to your needs. When you choose to work with our firm, you can rely on us to ensure you understand your options and how the laws may affect you and your family. We are dedicated to keeping you informed about your case so you can make careful decisions every step of the way. Our knowledgeable attorneys are here during this difficult time to make the process easier for you.
To learn more about your legal options, call us at 214-377-0786.