Legislature Looks at Ways to Streamline the Divorce Process
Filing a “joint” divorce petition is currently permitted only in limited situations in Texas, such as when the divorce is uncontested or the parties are using the collaborative divorce process. A new bill before the Texas legislature (HB 980) seeks to expand and formalize this concept, reducing some of the procedural steps, lowering legal fees and potentially shortening the times involved in getting a divorce finalized.
The Potential for Reducing the Costs of Divorce in Texas
Under the current laws of Texas, the parties to a divorce cannot be represented by the same legal counsel. As a practical matter, in cases where the divorce is uncontested or where the parties seek to amicably resolve their differences using the collaborative law approach, one of the parties files the petition and the other party simply signs off on it, making it a de facto joint petition.
How House Bill 980 Makes It Easier to File a Joint Divorce Petition in Texas
The main thrust of HB 980 is to allow parties in collaborative divorce proceedings to bring claims involving unrelated parties without violating confidentiality requirements. By minimizing any issues involving third parties, the proposed law eliminates some of the roadblocks that have prevented comprehensive settlements between parties to a divorce. With those roadblocks gone, the parties will be more likely to file a joint petition to terminate the marriage.
Contact DTX Family Law for Sound Advice Regarding Spousal Maintenance in a Texas Divorce
At DTX Family Law, we built our reputation and practice by focusing on the needs and best interests of our clients. We have an extensive knowledge and understanding of Texas divorce laws and procedures. We’ll carefully explain your rights and options, as well as your chances of success, so that you can make good decisions for you and your family. Chrysandra is board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, an honor earned by less than one of every ten family law attorneys in the state. To schedule an appointment with a proven and effective Texas family lawyer, visit our website or call our offices at 940-566-0606.
Handling Divorce and Family Law Matters throughout Denton and the surrounding communities, including Denton, Collin, Wise, Tarrant and Cooke counties and the municipalities of Keller, Euless, Hurst, Colleyville, Bedford, Crowley, Lake Worth, Benbrook, Haslet, Saginaw, Watauga, Richland Hills, White Settlement, River Oaks, Forest Hill, Kennedale, Westover Hills, Lakeside, Pelican Bay and North Richland Hills