Whether the ending of your marriage is amicable or highly contested, divorce can be challenging. There are so many questions and concerns during every step of the process – and so many decisions to make. Knowing your choices will not only affect your future – but the future of your children, the situation can quickly become overwhelming.
To ensure the outcome aligns with both your needs and goals, we encourage you to consult with our experienced and compassionate divorce lawyers in El Paso, Texas. For over 15 years, Quiñonez Law Firm has strongly protected our clients’ rights during their divorces and other family law matters. With your best interests in mind, we work hard to quickly and amicably resolve issues that arise, making your divorce as streamlined as possible.
Whether you are seeking a divorce or simply wish to learn more about your legal options, we recommend arranging a confidential consultation with one of our skilled Texas divorce lawyers. We will thoughtfully listen to your situation and explain all of your options, so you can decide how best to proceed.
Call (915) 533-0009 today to speak to a leading El Paso, Texas divorce attorney.
Divorces in El Paso, Texas
Although emotions run high during any divorce, certain decisions must be made. Couples must work together to agree on the many issues relating to their divorce, which include:
- Spousal support
- Asset division
- Debt division
- Child custody
- Child support
- Child visitation
Uncontested Divorce
Some couples can work together to reach a mutually-beneficial agreement in what is known as an uncontested divorce. There is no need to go through costly and lengthy negotiations or court battles in this simple and easy form of divorce.
When your divorce is uncontested, you and your spouse will simply file the necessary court forms and provide details of the agreements you have made. The judge will review the documents and, if they deem the agreement to be fair to both you and your spouse, will grant you a divorce.
Contested Divorce
In some situations, however, spouses aren’t able to agree on divorce-related issues and must pursue a contested divorce. A contested divorce can also be the only course of action when one spouse wishes to divorce, but the other does not.
During a contested divorce, spouses can continue to try to reach an agreement by working with a neutral third party who facilitates negotiation, known as a “mediator.” If they agree to all of the terms, they can then seek an uncontested divorce. However, if the spouses still disagree, the divorce will remain contested, and an El Paso court will ultimately decide the unresolved issues on their behalf.
Call (915) 533-0009 to arrange a confidential consultation.
No-fault and Fault-based Divorces in El Paso, Texas
Texas couples wishing to divorce have two options when it comes to fault. They can choose not to assign any blame in a no-fault divorce or cite a reason for ending their marriage in a fault-based divorce.
Generally, a no-fault divorce is faster, easier, and less contentious because neither spouse blames the other for ending their marriage. They only cite “insupportability” as the reason for the divorce, which is defined as “discord or conflict of personalities” under Texas law.
Some couples, however, are not in a position to pursue a no-fault divorce. In a fault-based divorce, a spouse may choose to cite a reason or “grounds” in an effort to obtain a more favorable settlement or child custody arrangement.
Grounds for a Fault-Based Divorce in Texas
Under Texas law, a party may choose from any of the following grounds:
- Adultery
- Cruelty
- Abandonment
- Living separately for at least three years
- Convicted of a felony or imprisoned for at least one year
- Confined to a mental hospital for at least three years
Most Texans choose to pursue a no-fault divorce as the process is typically more amicable and many couples do not wish to have their private matters become public. Still, many spouses will cite grounds, usually when one spouse is unwilling to support the other financially.
With several advantages and disadvantages to both no-fault and fault-based divorces, we recommend speaking with an experienced El Paso divorce attorney to determine an ideal course of action.
How Our El Paso Divorce Lawyers Can Help
Choosing which attorney will represent you in your divorce can greatly affect the outcome. We recommend taking the time to find one that not only will skillfully represent your best interests but also one who you feel comfortable with. At Quiñonez Law Firm, our clients turn to us in their time of need because we are their strongest advocate and their trusted confidant.
- With our years of collective experience, we have the skills and resources to meet your unique needs.
- We keep up with the latest rules and best practices of Texas divorce law.
- Our legal team has a track record of successfully taking on even the most complex and highly-disputed divorces.
- We keep you up-to-date with any developments and offer our legal guidance at every stage of the process.
- We work hard to keep the process as streamlined as possible, saving you time and money.
We welcome the opportunity to represent you in your divorce and encourage you to reach out to our firm to learn more about how we can help.
Talk to an El Paso divorce lawyer by calling (915) 533-0009 or contacting us online.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Paso Divorces
Can I get a legal separation in Texas?
Texas law does not recognize legal separation as an alternative to divorce. There are, however, some temporary arrangements you can obtain while your divorce is pending. A separation agreement puts a contract in place to address issues, such as spousal support and child custody. Another option is a trial separation. Although not overseen by the courts, they do help you decide whether a divorce is something you wish to pursue.
How long do you have to wait for your divorce to be finalized in Texas?
When filing for a divorce in Texas, your petition must be on file for a minimum of 60 days with a few exceptions, such as in cases involving domestic violence. How long your divorce takes will ultimately depend on you and your spouse’s ability to come to agree on the many issues relating to your divorce, which can range from less than the 60-day waiting period to several months – even years.
How are assets divided in a Texas divorce?
Texas is a community property state. This means that all income and property earned or acquired during the marriage belongs to both spouses. However, this does not mean that all assets are split equally. Under Texas law, courts divide marital assets between spouses in a way that is “just and right” based on the circumstances of each spouse.
Speak to a Top Divorce Lawyer in El Paso
A divorce is something you likely thought you would never have to go through. Realizing the life you once knew is coming to an end can be a devastating experience.
At Quiñonez Law Firm, we want you to know that we understand what you and your family are going through and want to assure you that you do not have to do this alone. Our compassionate El Paso, Texas divorce attorneys will be there every step of the way, acting only in your best interests. We will keep the lines of communication open and continually be there to address all of your questions and concerns.
When your future is on the line, turn to an experienced and dedicated legal team. Turn to Quiñonez Law Firm. Call (915) 533-0009 or contact us online to arrange a confidential, no-obligation case review.