Divorce Attorneys in Southlake
- Southlake, TX
- Wood | Sanchez Law
Hire A Southlake Divorce Lawyer
When a marriage is no longer serving the best interests of both partners, divorce may be the healthiest way forward. Still, ending a marriage often comes with intense feelings like heartbreak, depression, and resentment that can compromise your judgment. That’s why having qualified legal guidance matters most. At Wood & Sanchez Law, our Southlake legal team is ready to provide trusted support and an objective viewpoint throughout every phase of your divorce.
Compassionately Representing The Southlake Community
Divorce is one of the most challenging events a person can go through. Every choice you make during this time could have consequences that will affect your life for years to come. Thankfully, you don’t have to face it all by yourself. Whether you pursue cooperative mediation or take your case to court, the right divorce attorney can make all the difference.
At Wood & Sanchez Law, our dedicated divorce attorneys bring over 20 years of experience in Texas family law. We serve clients throughout Southlake, expertly assisting them with property division and child custody, which is usually the most emotionally charged aspect of divorce. That’s why our team always takes a compassionate and highly tactful approach. We prioritize your children’s well-being while defending your rights as a parent and Texas citizen.
Why Experienced Legal Counsel Matters
If you’re considering divorce or have just been served, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The separation process is filled with deadlines, documentation, and critical decisions, so it’s important to hire a professional family law attorney as soon as possible. At Wood & Sanchez Law, we recognize how emotionally and logistically complex this transition can be. Our experts are here to shoulder your legal burdens and help you move forward with confidence.
From filing the initial paperwork to establishing temporary arrangements and pursuing a fair settlement, we’ll be by your side every step of the way. If your case heads to court, we’re fully prepared to represent your interests. Let our seasoned attorneys handle the complexities of your divorce, so you can focus on building what comes next.
Our Approach to Divorce Cases
Divorce in Texas falls into two main categories: uncontested and contested. In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all major issues, allowing for a smoother and more harmonious process. If the parties are unable to collaborate, their divorce becomes contested and must be settled by a judge. At Wood & Sanchez Law, we bring clarity and direction to both scenarios, offering full-service legal support that addresses the four main conflicts of divorce:
- Division of Property: We help ensure all marital assets, such as homes, bank accounts, and investments, are divided fairly.
- Spousal Support: If one partner needs financial assistance after separation, we’ll work to establish the appropriate spousal support payments.
- Child Custody: We craft equitable custody plans that serve your children’s best interests.
- Child Support: Our team helps calculate fair support obligations based on income, living costs, and the needs of your children.
Known throughout Southlake and other locations for our fearless legal style, we combine strategic negotiation with thoughtful advocacy. Whether your case is amicable or hostile, at-fault or no-fault, you can trust us to guide you through the legal system with unwavering commitment.
Where Proven Experience Meets Personalized Care
When you work with Wood & Sanchez Law, you’ll benefit from the resources of a big firm and the personal touch of a smaller practice. Our family law lawyers give every case the specialized attention it deserves. Let us help you move beyond your divorce to a more prosperous and independent future. Schedule your preliminary consultation today.
The Steps To Filing For Divorce In Southlake
Divorce laws vary from state to state, and Texas has its own rules that must be followed. While any adult can initiate the process, working with a certified divorce attorney can help reduce stress, avoid missteps, and streamline the overall process. If you’re thinking about separating from your spouse in Southlake, here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Step 1 - Check Residency Requirements
Before you can file, either you or your spouse must have lived in Texas for at least 6 months and in your current county for at least 90 days. Divorce petitions must be filed in the family court of the county where your spouse resides.
Step 2 - File the Divorce Petition
To begin, you’ll submit an Original Petition for Divorce with the District Clerk. This document outlines the reasons for divorce and documents any shared property or children. Bring the original plus two copies and be prepared to pay a filing fee.
Step 3 - Notify Your Spouse
Your spouse must be officially notified of the petition, either through a process server or by signing a waiver of citation. If you’re the party that has been served divorce papers, don’t wait to make a response. You should read the documents carefully, note all deadlines (usually around 20 days), and contact a lawyer promptly to avoid losing your say in the process.
Step 4 - Negotiate the Terms
Texas mandates a 60-day waiting period before any divorce can be finalized. During this time, both parties are encouraged to resolve issues like property division, custody, and support. If a settlement is reached, the agreed terms will be included in the final paperwork. Otherwise, undecided matters will move to court.
Step 5 - Prepare the Final Decree
Once terms are settled—either through negotiation or litigation—both parties must complete a Final Decree of Divorce. This document details every aspect of the agreement. Some decrees may require a court appearance; others can be finalized with administrative oversight.
Step 6 - Attend the Final Hearing
The last step is a short court hearing scheduled with the District Clerk. If every point of contention has been resolved, the judge will ask some concluding questions and sign the decree, officially dissolving the marriage.
Let Wood & Sanchez Help You Take the Next Step
At Wood & Sanchez Law, our knowledgeable and approachable attorneys are committed to providing the legal support you need. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, property division, or child custody issues, we’re ready to stand with you every step of the way. To get started, call us at 1-888-981-7509, complete our online form, or visit our office. We proudly serve clients throughout Southlake, TX, and other nearby cities, offering trusted representation in a wide range of family law matters.
At-fault divorces can stem from reasons such as cruelty, adultery, abandonment, a felony conviction, or other undisclosed issues that harm the marriage. No-fault divorces are typically based on insupportability or irreconcilable differences. Additionally, if a couple has been living apart for more than three years, or if one spouse has been institutionalized for a similar period, these circumstances can also serve as grounds for a no-fault divorce.
An effective divorce attorney prioritizes clear communication, provides personalized solutions, and possesses strong courtroom experience. They will also work to move the process along efficiently, minimizing unnecessary litigation. At Wood & Sanchez Law, we always focus on what’s best for you, ensuring that your best interests are factored into every decision.
It’s advisable to refrain from discussing your divorce on social media during your case. Any posts you make could potentially be used against you in court. To protect yourself, we recommend temporarily deactivating your accounts or adjusting your privacy settings until all legal matters are resolved.
In Texas, each party is usually responsible for paying their own attorney fees. However, the court may order one spouse to cover part or all of the other’s fees if there is a substantial financial imbalance between the two.
Yes, you can get divorced even if you’re stationed elsewhere. Non-residents are also eligible to file for divorce in Texas if they’ve been stationed at a local military base for at least six months and have lived in the same county for the past 90 days.
Historically, mothers often had the upper hand in child custody cases, but today, custody decisions are more balanced. In Texas, neither spouse is given preferential treatment. The primary factor in custody disputes is always the child’s well-being. View our Child Custody Page for more information.
Yes, Texas recognizes common-law marriages as legitimate. However, if you part ways and do not file for divorce within two years, the court may rule that the marriage never existed.
You can still get a divorce even if your spouse disagrees. If you’re unable to serve them divorce papers in the usual way, alternative methods such as certified mail or publication in a newspaper can be used. Additionally, if your spouse fails to respond by the designated deadline, the court may issue a default judgment to finalize the divorce.
