Unfortunately, in today’s times, divorces are an all too common occurrence. In order to qualify for a divorce in the State of Texas, one of the spouses has to have been a resident of the state for a continuous six (6) months period and a resident of the county of filing for a continuous ninety(90) day period prior to the filing of the petition.  A spouse can begin the process of divorce by filing an original petition for divorce with the court and then serving it on the respondent spouse. At the time of the filing, a petitioner can request that a standard temporary restraining order be put in place which, among other things, will freeze the status quo and require that the parties be civil to each other during the divorce. Once served, the respondent spouse must file an answer with the court. If the parties are able to agree on the terms of the divorce then an agreed decree of divorce will be filed with the court. If the parties cannot agree on the terms of the divorce then the parties will be ordered to mediation. If there is no settlement at mediation, then a trial may occur.

Divorces cannot be final for at least sixty (60) days after the filing of the petition with the court. It is very important to have legal counsel when involved in a divorce. Please contact Carrabba & Associates, P.C. if you are involved in a divorce or are considering a divorce so that we can determine if we can assist you.