Experienced Divorce Attorneys

Divorce

Going through a divorce can be one of the most emotionally taxing experiences you’ll ever go through as an adult. The process is often tough on parents and children which is why it’s important to have qualified representation to make things as seamless and as painless as possible.

At Roebuck, Thomas & Adams, we help Beaumont residents through various family law cases including the complex divorce process. Our experience allows us to take special care when guiding our clients through such a difficult time. We take all the necessary steps to protect your rights as you move step-by-step through the divorce process.

The Divorce Process:

STEP 1: Petition for Divorce

This is a legal document that tells the judge that you and your spouse wish to file for divorce. Grounds for divorce in Texas include:
– Adultery
– Abandonment
– Confinement for incurable sanity for three years
– Conviction of a felony and imprisonment for over one year
– Cruel and inhuman treatment
– Insupportability (often known as conflict of personalities)

STEP 2: Legal Notice
The petitioner (person who initiated the divorce) will give legal notice to the respondent (spouse).
STEP 3: Contested or Uncontested

 The decision to file for divorce is not always a mutual decision. An uncontested divorce is less stressful as both parties are in agreement which can mean more cost savings. However, in a contested divorce matter, it’s even more important to obtain a divorce representation to protect your rights since one person is not in agreement which may prove to be more costly in court.

STEP 4: Negotiations

At this step, the parties involved will start dividing assets that fall in the following buckets:
Community Property:
• Texas is a community property state.
Any property accumulated while married is considered community property.
• These assets include money, real estate, investments, and even shared debt.
Separate Property:
• This included any assets or debts established before the marriage.
• Any property or gifts acquired during the marriage can also be considered separate property.
Child Custody:
Child custody matters are one of the most difficult to manage. If possible, working out a mutual arrangement works best but if all parties don’t agree, the process can be even more difficult for the child/children involved. Most divorces end with one parent having sole custody or both parents sharing joint custody.
Spousal Support:
• Texas allows maximum spousal support of $5,000 a month or 20% of a spouse’s monthly income if that amount is less than $5,000.
• Spousal support is only required if the receiving party is not able to earn sufficient income.

Step 5: Court

At this final stage, most parties have agreed on the terms of the divorce. If the parties still cannot reach an agreement at this stage, the filing will move to mediation. And lastly, if both individuals still cannot come to an agreement after mediation, the judge will decide the terms of the divorce. The final divorce document, called “The Final Decree of Divorce” or “Decree,” will be signed by all, including the judge to finalize the process.

Now that you have a better understanding of the divorce process and all that it entails, we are here to help you navigate it. We understand that many life-changing decisions like divorce can be emotional. We are here to serve as a voice of reason to make sure you clearly understand the choices you have and how they will affect you and your family long-term.

If you’re facing a family law matter and need representation, call our law offices now for a FREE initial consultation.

Roebuck, Thomas & Adams, PLLC

Call Us for a Free Initial Consultation Today

409-892-8227