Starting a divorce can feel overwhelming because there are many decisions that need attention right away. People often want to understand what to expect and how their lives will change during and after the divorce. Having the right information from the start makes the process more comfortable and less stressful.
In the video, Atty. Tyler Monahan and Atty. Heather Ogier of Turner-Monahan PLLC talks about the first steps people should consider before filing for divorce and how speaking with an attorney can help them prepare for the process. All case evaluations are based on Texas Family Law. This content is for educational purposes only.
Talking to an Attorney First
When someone is thinking about pursuing a divorce, the first thing to do is to contact an attorney. At Turner-Monahan, we talk through everything and provide insight on how things may go. We cannot give specific legal advice until we are officially retained, but you can still gain a general understanding of the divorce process.
We can help you understand how the process works, how it may affect you personally, how it may affect your family, and what things may look like during the divorce on a temporary basis and then on a final basis.
Understanding the Divorce Process
By reaching out to attorneys at Turner-Monahan, you can get clear information on:
- What the process looks like when filing for divorce
- What it means to get served
- What to expect next, such as temporary hearings
- Mediation and what may happen there
- The possibility of going to a final trial if needed
Knowing these steps early gives peace of mind and helps remove confusion during a stressful time.
Preparing Before Filing
There is also another important part, which is preparing for the divorce before filing. You may need to make sure that you have somewhere else to live. Or you might need to make sure that your spouse has somewhere safe to stay during the divorce.
Getting prepared for the changes that come with a divorce can make the process smoother. Reaching out to an attorney at the very beginning will help guide you through every part of the process.
Knowing Your Financial Picture
Before filing for divorce, it helps to look closely at your financial situation. This includes understanding what assets you and your spouse own, what debts exist, and how bills will be handled while the divorce is ongoing. Organizing bank statements, income information, and important documents can save time and protect your interests once the legal process begins.
Considering Children and Daily Life Changes
If children are involved, it is helpful to think about how their routines will be affected. Where will the children stay during the week, weekends, and school breaks? Communication between parents also matters because disagreements can affect kids emotionally. Planning these details early can support a smoother process for the entire family.
Emotional Support and Safety Planning
Divorce can bring emotional and mental challenges. Some people may need support from trusted family, friends, or professionals. In situations where there are concerns about safety or conflict at home, finding a safe place to stay or having a plan in place before filing is very important. It helps protect your well-being while the case is moving forward.
What Does the Texas Family Code Say
The Texas Family Code provides the rules that guide the divorce process and protect families throughout the case.
Under Texas Family Code Chapter 6, either spouse can file for divorce, and the court will look at whether the marriage cannot continue. This allows couples to move forward even if only one person wants to end the marriage.
Under Chapter 7, the court will divide community property in a fair way. This means the judge looks at income, needs, and other factors to decide what is fair for both spouses. Understanding these laws helps people prepare for what may happen with their home, savings, and personal belongings.
When children are involved, Chapters 153 and 156 focus on conservatorship and visitation. The court always looks at the best interest of the child when deciding who makes decisions for them and how time is shared between parents. Parents should be aware that anything that affects the child’s well-being will be important in the case.
These laws show how much planning and understanding are needed before filing, especially when children and property are part of the divorce.
Consult with a family law attorney to review your situation and ensure your inheritance remains secure under Texas law.
Hire An Experienced Fort Worth, Texas, Divorce Attorney
Taking time to understand the first steps of divorce makes a big difference in how things move forward. With the right guidance, people feel more confident and more prepared for the changes ahead. It is always best to speak directly with a family law attorney who can help protect what matters most and give support throughout the process.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Attorney Tyler Monahan to discuss the details.
Check our website for more information about our services. Plus, don’t forget to go through our blog to find out more about your case. There is tons of information on divorce and answers to unique questions like “How Can Parents Establish a New Normal That Prioritizes Their Children?”
FAQs Regarding Divorce
Divorce cases are unique, so you will have many questions. To save you time and hassle, here are some topics that revolve around the area. For more information, contact our firm, Turner-Monahan, PLLC.
Disclaimer
The commentary and opinions are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to provide legal advice. You should contact an attorney in your state for legal advice concerning any particular issue or problem. You can become a client and enter the attorney-client privilege only after hiring Turner-Monahan, PLLC, by signing a written retainer agreement.
