Divorce

Abilene Divorce Attorneys

Giving You the Representation You Need

Most people who get married expect it to last the rest of their life. No one says “I do,” wanting the relationship to end one day. However, this is not always the case. Although divorce rates in Texas have been falling recently, the rate is still at 1.4 per 1,000 people. This means about 39% of marriages in Texas end in divorce. Many people may be tempted to represent themselves in their own divorce. This is especially true if the marriage is brief or the divorce is amicable.

Divorce can be complicated, regardless of someone’s relationship with their former spouse. Even people with the best of intentions can find themselves in a messy legal situation. This is why if you or a loved one are considering or going through a divorce, you must hire an experienced divorce lawyer or family law attorney.

Why Do I Need a Divorce Attorney in Abilene, Texas?

The divorce process is a legal process. For a marriage to be dissolved in the eyes of the state of Texas and the U.S. Government, specific requirements must be fulfilled. This includes filing certain paperwork and can consist of appearances before a judge. Most people do not have the experience or knowledge to serve as their own legal representation in a divorce. For example, many people do not know that, under Texas law, there are two general types of divorce: contested and uncontested.

What is an Uncontested Divorce in Texas?

Texas is a no-fault divorce state. This means that a couple can get divorced for any reason without citing an explanation in court. If a couple is ending their relationship amicably, they may proceed with an uncontested divorce. An uncontested divorce is a divorce in which both parties have agreed to end the marriage and generally agree on how the marriage will end. This may include but is not necessarily limited to child support, child custody (including visitation),spousal maintenance, division of assets, personal finances, and other legal concerns. Uncontested divorces are generally quicker than contested divorces.

Even if you are considering or going through an uncontested divorce, hiring an experienced attorney is vital. Divorces can be unpredictable. An experienced family law attorney can help parties with mediation. This is a process in which a neutral party helps the parties going through a divorce reach mutually agreeable decisions regarding the end of their marriage. Having an attorney act as a mediator in an uncontested divorce can help speed up the process and ensure a positive outcome for all parties.

What is a Contested Divorce in Texas?

Depending on the circumstances, a divorce may be contested. This occurs when the relationship is not ending amicably, and one or both parties need the law to make certain decisions regarding the marriage. In a contested divorce, the filing party will list their grounds for a divorce. Under Texas law, there are seven grounds for a contested divorce. These are:

  • Abandonment
  • Adultery
  • Confinement to a Mental Facility
  • Cruelty
  • A Felony Conviction
  • Insupportability (Intolerability)
  • Living Apart for Three or More Years

A contested divorce will usually involve appearances before a judge in court. Both sides will present their arguments to the court regarding matters such as child support and custody, asset and property division, and other factors related to the end of the marriage. Uncontested divorces can drag out for an extended period and become expensive and time-consuming. This is why if you or a loved one is considering or going through a divorce, you must contact an experienced attorney.

What Should I Do if I Or a Loved One Are Considering or Going Through a Divorce in the Abilene Area?

Divorce can be the most challenging experience of a person’s life. With the services of an experienced and dedicated law firm, it doesn’t have to be. If you or a loved one are currently considering or going through a divorce, don’t hesitate to call our law firm at 325-241-2868.

At Barrett Legal PLLC, we work tirelessly to represent clients going through some of the most challenging periods of their lives. We understand how complex and frustrating a divorce can be. We know that even under the best circumstances, a divorce can involve a lot of hurt feelings, frustrations, and fears about the future. At Barrett Legal PLLC, we don’t just provide legal representation to our clients; we listen to them. We discuss every aspect of the divorce process with our clients, providing them with a safe, confidential space to help figure out their future. We don’t just help clients through divorces; we help them begin the next chapter of their lives.

Endings can be stressful. With the attorneys of Barrett Legal PLLC in your corner, they don’t have to be. If you or a loved one are going through a divorce, call us today at 325-241-2868 to schedule your initial consultation.