Divorce in Texas is not just a legal event; it is a series of decisions that shape your financial future, your relationship with your children, and your day‑to‑day life. At The R.A. Brown Legal Group, we take a strategy‑focused approach: we listen carefully to what matters most to you, explain the legal landscape in clear terms, and build a plan designed to protect your long‑term interests.
Whether you are considering filing for divorce or responding to a petition that has already been filed, understanding the basics of Texas divorce law can help you make grounded, informed choices. This page outlines the key concepts, major stages of a case, and how our firm guides clients through each step.
Most Texas divorces are filed on no‑fault grounds, alleging that the marriage has become insupportable because of conflict that cannot be resolved. No‑fault divorce avoids assigning legal blame to either spouse and is often the most practical path.
In some situations, it may be strategically appropriate to allege fault grounds, such as cruelty, adultery, abandonment, or a spouse’s conviction of a felony. Fault can influence how a court divides community property, but it also adds complexity and emotion to a case. We discuss with clients when asserting fault may (or may not) advance their goals.
To file for divorce in Texas, one spouse must have lived in Texas for at least six months and in the county of filing for at least 90 days. In most cases there is also a mandatory 60‑day waiting period between filing and the earliest date the court can grant a divorce, although the overall process often takes longer depending on the issues involved.
In an agreed (uncontested) divorce, the spouses are able to reach a full agreement about property, debts, and any issues involving children. The court still must review and approve the proposed orders, but the process is typically more efficient, less expensive, and more private.
A contested divorce does not mean constant courtroom battles. It simply means that there is at least one issue the parties have not yet resolved. Many contested cases ultimately settle through negotiation or mediation after the parties have exchanged the information they need to make decisions.
Our role is to help you evaluate the pros and cons of each path, understand where you may be able to compromise, and identify the issues that require firm advocacy. We focus on realistic options that protect what matters most to you.
| Stage | What Typically Happens | How The R.A. Brown Legal Group Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Initial consultation and planning | You explain your situation, goals, and concerns. We review any existing orders and identify immediate issues. | We provide a clear overview of the process, discuss strategy, and outline your next steps. |
| Filing and service | A petition for divorce is filed and formally served, unless waived in an agreed case. | We prepare precise filings and coordinate service or waivers in a way that aligns with your goals and safety. |
| Temporary orders | The court may enter temporary orders regarding children, finances, and use of property while the case is pending. | We advocate for practical, stable temporary arrangements and help you prepare for the hearing if needed. |
| Discovery and information‑gathering | The parties exchange financial and other information to clarify the issues. | We tailor discovery to the complexity of your case, avoiding unnecessary expense while securing key information. |
| Negotiation and mediation | Most cases resolve through attorney‑led negotiation or mediation. | We prepare you for negotiation, identify settlement ranges, and protect your priorities at the bargaining table. |
| Trial (if needed) | If settlement is not possible, the court will hear evidence and issue final orders. | We present your case clearly and efficiently, focused on what the judge needs to make sound decisions. |
Texas is a community property state. In general, property and debts acquired during the marriage are presumed to be community, while assets owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance may be separate. At divorce, the court must divide community property in a manner that is “just and right” under the circumstances.
For many families, the key questions involve the home, retirement accounts, business interests, and how to handle debt. In higher‑asset or more complex cases, issues such as tracing separate property, valuing closely held businesses, or addressing stock compensation may arise.
Our firm combines careful financial analysis with practical judgment. We work with you to identify what needs to be protected, where flexibility exists, and when to involve outside experts. For a deeper discussion of property issues, see the firm’s dedicated Property Division & High‑Asset Divorce page.
Some divorces present additional layers of complexity: business ownership, professional practices, significant investment portfolios, executive compensation, or serious disputes about parenting, safety, or relocation. These cases require focused attention, careful planning, and discretion.
We work with clients to identify early whether their case is likely to be high‑conflict or high‑complexity. From there, we design a strategy that may include targeted use of experts, detailed temporary orders, and structured negotiation or mediation. Our emphasis remains the same: clear strategy, practical counsel, and strong, measured advocacy.
If you anticipate a difficult divorce or have already experienced escalating conflict, it is especially important to speak with a Texas divorce attorney early so you understand your options and can take thoughtful steps to protect yourself and your children.
How long will my Texas divorce take?
Every case is different. While Texas law requires at least a 60‑day waiting period, many divorces take several months or longer depending on the complexity of property issues, the level of conflict, and the court’s schedule. We discuss likely timelines with you at the outset and update you as the case progresses.
Will I have to go to court?
Many clients appear in court only a few times, and some agreed divorces are finalized with minimal in‑person hearings. Contested temporary orders or trial will require court appearances. We prepare you carefully so you understand what to expect and why each hearing is important.
How much will my divorce cost?
Cost depends on the level of disagreement, the need for experts, and how efficiently information can be exchanged. We are transparent about fees, discuss ways to manage costs, and focus on steps that move your case forward.
What should I do before filing or responding to a divorce?
Gather basic financial information, avoid making major financial changes without advice, be cautious about written communications, and speak with an attorney about your specific situation. A consultation can help you prioritize immediate steps and avoid common missteps.
Does this website create an attorney–client relationship?
No. This page provides general information about Texas divorce and the firm’s services. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney–client relationship. The best way to obtain advice for your situation is to schedule a consultation.
If you are facing a divorce in Houston, Harris County, or elsewhere in Texas, you do not have to navigate the process alone. The R.A. Brown Legal Group offers clear strategy, practical counsel, and focused representation tailored to your situation.
Complete the form on this page or call 281‑974‑3538 to request a consultation. We will review basic information, check for any conflicts, and then schedule a time to talk about your goals and next steps.