Sherman Divorce Attorneys
If you are going through a divorce, it is important that you have strong legal representation beside you at all times. These are emotional proceedings that involve complex laws. Having a lawyer who understands the law and can remain objective during such an emotional time will help ensure your interests are protected to the fullest possible extent.
From our office in Sherman, we offer clients a strong background of experience representing North Texas clients in a wide array of contested and uncontested divorce matters. At Shea Beaty Poet PLLC, we are particularly adept at handling high net worth divorces involving complex estates. We understand the unique challenges and concerns that arise in these cases, and we utilize proven strategies to pursue the best possible outcome.
Creating Customized Solutions To Accommodate Your Unique Needs
We know every divorce is different, and no single solution will fit each client’s situation. We work closely with each client to understand the specific concerns, goals and expectations for the case. We develop a customized approach designed specifically to address those needs and diligently pursue a settlement that accommodates them.
We understand the anxiety clients experience in the midst of a divorce, and we work hard to obtain the best result with the minimum amount of stress. However, we are prepared to take any necessary steps to protect your interests. We prepare every case as if it were going to trial. While we always attempt to negotiate a fair settlement, we will not hesitate to go to court if negotiations fail to provide the desired outcome.
What To Expect In The Divorce Process In Texas
A Texas divorce usually begins when one spouse files a petition with the proper court. After filing, the other spouse must receive legal notice unless they waive formal service. You can then begin addressing the financial and family issues that will shape the final terms of your divorce.
If you and your spouse disagree on important matters, the court may issue temporary orders while the case continues. These orders may address parenting schedules, temporary support, use of the family home and payment of certain expenses. You and your spouse may also exchange financial information and negotiate possible solutions.
Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. If you reach an agreement, your attorney can prepare the final documents for court approval. If you cannot resolve every issue, the remaining disputes may proceed to trial. We guide you through each stage so you understand your options and can make informed decisions about your case.
Understanding Contested Versus Uncontested Divorce In Texas
An uncontested divorce means both parties reach full agreement on all significant matters before filing court papers. These cases include complete consensus on asset distribution, parenting arrangements, financial support and other critical decisions. This approach allows couples to complete their divorce faster and spend considerably less money on legal fees.
Meanwhile, contested divorces involve disagreements between spouses on important issues that require court intervention or extended negotiations to resolve. Common areas of disagreement include:
- Property and debt division
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Spousal support or alimony
- Child support amounts
- Business valuations and assets
Uncontested divorces often resolve within a few months, while contested cases may take a year or longer, depending on the complexity of disputes. The cost difference can be substantial, as contested divorces require more court appearances, document preparation and negotiation time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce In Texas
The following questions address common concerns you may have about the Texas divorce process and what you can expect as your case moves forward:
Can you file for divorce if your spouse lives in another state?
Yes, you can file for divorce in Texas if your spouse lives elsewhere. Texas law requires only one spouse to meet the residency requirements: living in Texas for at least six months and in the county where you file for at least 90 days before starting the divorce process.
However, serving divorce papers to an out-of-state spouse creates additional challenges. We help clients navigate proper service methods and ensure all legal requirements are met.
Military couples face special considerations during divorce proceedings. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act provides certain protections for active-duty personnel, and unique rules apply to military benefits and property division.
Property located in multiple states can complicate the process, but Texas courts maintain jurisdiction over the divorce itself when residency requirements are satisfied.
What if your spouse refuses to sign the divorce papers?
Your spouse’s signature is not required to proceed with divorce in Texas. The court can grant a divorce even when one spouse refuses to participate in the process.
When a spouse will not sign papers or respond to divorce proceedings, we can pursue a default divorce. This process requires:
- Proper service of divorce papers
- Waiting period of at least 60 days
- Court hearing to finalize the divorce
The court will review your requests and typically grants reasonable terms when the other spouse fails to respond. This approach proves particularly important in high-asset divorce cases where significant property division is involved.
We ensure all service requirements are met and help clients understand their options when facing an uncooperative spouse. The divorce will proceed according to Texas law regardless of the other party’s willingness to participate.
How long does a divorce take in Texas?
Texas generally requires a mandatory 60-day waiting period after you file for divorce before the court can finalize it, although limited exceptions may apply. Your case may take longer if you and your spouse disagree about property, custody, support or other terms. The amount of conflict and the complexity of your finances can also affect the timeline. Court schedules, document exchanges and negotiations may add more time before you can reach a final resolution.
Who pays legal fees and court costs in a Texas divorce?
You should generally expect to pay your own attorney’s fees and legal expenses. However, a Texas court may order one spouse to pay some of the other spouse’s reasonable attorney’s fees or costs based on the circumstances of the case. The court may consider each spouse’s financial resources and other relevant factors when making that decision. Your attorney can also explain how these costs may apply to your case before you make decisions about settlement or litigation.
Contact Our Law Firm To Discuss Your Divorce Representation Needs
You do not have to face the divorce process alone. We are experienced with Sherman, Texas, courthouses and Grayson County district courts. Call to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney. You can contact our Sherman office by calling us at 903-357-5269 or via email by completing the form below.