A DFW Divorce Lawyer Who Helps You Move Forward — With Clarity, Not Chaos
Divorce is one of the most disorienting experiences a person can face. We help clients across Dallas-Fort Worth understand exactly what to expect, protect what they've built, and get through the process with as little conflict as possible.
What You Need to Know About Divorce in Texas
Texas law requires a minimum 60-day waiting period before any divorce can be finalized — this applies to every case, no matter how straightforward. Under Texas Family Code § 6.702, the clock starts on the day the petition is filed. For uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on the key terms, the process typically concludes in two to three months. When significant disagreements exist over property, children, or support, contested divorces can take six months to a year or longer. Knowing where your case falls on that spectrum is the first conversation we have with every client.
Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses can reach agreement on property division, any children, and support, an uncontested divorce is the fastest and most affordable path. We help couples document those agreements correctly so nothing is left open to dispute later. Most uncontested cases in Texas are resolved shortly after the 60-day waiting period ends.
Contested Divorce
When spouses cannot agree, a judge decides the unresolved issues. Contested divorces involve more discovery, more negotiation, and sometimes trial. Our job is to advocate firmly for your interests while looking for opportunities to resolve disputes outside the courtroom — because a negotiated outcome almost always costs less and takes less time than a trial.
Community Property Division
Texas is a community property state, which means most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided between both spouses. That does not automatically mean a 50/50 split — Texas courts divide community property in a way that is "just and right" based on the specific circumstances of each case. We work to ensure that division reflects your contributions, your needs, and your financial future.
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance — sometimes called alimony — is not automatic in Texas. Courts award it in specific situations, including long marriages, a spouse's disability, or cases involving family violence. We help clients understand whether maintenance is likely, how much may be appropriate, and how to present that case effectively.
Divorce Involving Children
When children are part of a divorce, conservatorship, possession schedules, and child support must all be addressed. Texas courts prioritize the best interest of the child in every decision. We approach these matters with care and focus on outcomes that give your children stability — and give you a workable, enforceable parenting arrangement.
Serving Bilingual Clients Throughout DFW
We serve clients in Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Spanish — because going through a divorce is hard enough without a language barrier in the middle of it. Our staff communicates clearly with clients across Dallas, Richardson, Garland, Arlington, and the surrounding communities, and we write everything in plain language so you always know where your case stands.
|
Why Families in DFW Choose Wincorn & Associates
We've earned more than 145 Google reviews from clients across Dallas-Fort Worth who came to us during some of the hardest moments of their lives. What they consistently say: we were honest with them, we moved their cases forward efficiently, and we treated them like people — not case numbers.
- Two office locations: Richardson/Dallas and Arlington, covering both Dallas and Tarrant counties
- Bilingual and multilingual service in Arabic, Vietnamese, Mandarin, and Spanish
- Paralegal-supported model that keeps your case moving without unnecessary delays
- Plain-language communication at every stage — no legal jargon, no confusion
- Consultations available by phone, online, or in person at either office
How the Divorce Process Works in Texas
Most clients come to us not knowing what to expect next. Here is how the process typically unfolds:
- Filing: One spouse files a petition for divorce in the county where either spouse has lived for at least 90 days.
- Waiting period: Texas law requires a minimum 60-day waiting period from the date of filing before a divorce can be granted.
- Temporary orders: If needed, the court can issue temporary orders covering living arrangements, child possession, and financial support while the case is pending.
- Discovery and negotiation: Both sides exchange financial information. Many cases settle during this phase without going to trial.
- Final decree: Once all issues are resolved — by agreement or by the court — the judge signs a final decree of divorce and the marriage is legally ended.
We walk you through each of these steps and make sure you are never left guessing about where things stand.
When to Talk to a Divorce Attorney
You do not need to wait until things get adversarial to call us. In fact, the earlier you understand your rights and options, the better position you are in — whether your goal is a quick, amicable resolution or firm advocacy in a contested case. January is one of the busiest months for new divorce filings in Texas, and many clients find that having a clear legal picture before the holidays helps them make better decisions for themselves and their families. If you are thinking about divorce, or if your spouse has already filed, now is the right time to get informed.
|
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Texas
How long does a divorce take in Texas?
Texas requires a minimum 60-day waiting period from the date the petition is filed. Uncontested divorces typically conclude within two to three months. Contested divorces — where spouses disagree on property, children, or support — can take six months to a year or more, depending on the complexity of the issues involved.What is community property and how does it affect my divorce?
Texas is a community property state, meaning most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are subject to division. Courts divide community property in a way that is "just and right," which considers each spouse's circumstances — it is not always a straight 50/50 split. Separate property, such as assets owned before marriage or received as gifts or inheritance, is generally not subject to division.Do I qualify for spousal maintenance in Texas?
Spousal maintenance is not guaranteed. Texas courts may award it when the marriage lasted at least 10 years and one spouse lacks sufficient property to meet minimum reasonable needs, or in cases involving disability or family violence. The amount and duration are limited by statute.Can I get a divorce without going to court?
In many uncontested cases, only one spouse needs to appear before the judge for the final hearing, and that appearance is typically brief. If both spouses agree on all terms, the process can be handled largely outside the courtroom with the help of an attorney who prepares the required documents correctly.Do I need a lawyer if my divorce is uncontested?
Even in uncontested divorces, having an attorney review or prepare your agreements and final decree helps prevent costly mistakes. Errors in property division, child support calculations, or parenting plan language can create problems that are difficult and expensive to fix after the decree is signed.
Talk to a Dallas Divorce Attorney Today
You deserve straight answers and a clear path forward. Whether your situation is straightforward or complicated, we are ready to listen and help you understand your options. Contact Wincorn & Associates for a free consultation at either our Richardson/Dallas or Arlington office — or reach us by phone today.
