What Are the Steps to Getting a Divorce in San Antonio?

Even though going through the divorce process is never simple, having a general understanding of how the process works can minimize some of the associated stress. If you are thinking about filing for divorce in San Antonio, it’s important to have an understanding of the path ahead of you. An experienced attorney in San Antonio from HGC can help you navigate the challenging landscape of divorce.

Call 210-222-9132 to connect with our dedicated San Antonio team.

What Do I Need to Do to Get a Divorce in San Antonio?

The divorce process looks different for everyone. However, there are some general steps that need to be taken in order to finalize the legal situation. A divorce generally involves determining your eligibility, filing and serving the petition, negotiating, mediating, going to court (if necessary), and finalizing the divorce.

How Do I Determine Whether I’m Eligible to File for Divorce?

To be eligible for filing a divorce in San Antonio, at least one spouse must have been residing in Bexar County for at least 90 days and have lived in the state of Texas for the last six months. If you meet these residency requirements, you may be able to file for a divorce in San Antonio.

How Do I File the Divorce Petition?

The divorce process officially begins when one spouse – known as the petitioner – files an original petition for divorce with the Bexar County district clerk. The divorce petition is a legal document that states your intent to end your current marriage. The document also states any initial requests related to child support, spousal support, child custody, or property division.

How Is the Respondent Notified of the Divorce?

The other party who is not filing the petition – also known as the respondent – needs to be notified of the divorce in an official manner. The process can be done through certified mail, personal service, or if each party is cooperative, waiver of service. After the respondent has been served, they have a limited amount of time to issue their response.

How Do I Negotiate During the Divorce Process?

While divorce proceedings are going on, the court may decide to issue temporary orders that address the use of assets or property, temporary financial support, or child custody or visitation. During this time, each party typically begins to collect evidence and negotiate key terms related to the divorce, like spousal maintenance, child custody, and property division.

What Happens During Mediation or a Contested Hearing?

Before a case can go to trial in San Antonio, most of them must attempt to undergo mediation. This is because spouses who can agree on key issues outside of the courtroom can save time, money, and work to preserve personal relationships. If mediation is not successful, the case may be moved to a contested hearing, where a judge will decide what should happen.

When Is the Divorce Finalized?

After reaching an agreement, or if the judge has made a final ruling, the divorce is officially signed off on. There is a 60-day waiting period in Texas from the day the petition is filed to when a divorce can be finalized.

Why Should I Work with an Attorney in San Antonio?

Divorce is a complicated legal process that can take a serious emotional toll. Therefore, it’s crucial to work with compassionate, skilled legal support who can support you during this challenging time. An attorney in San Antonio from HGC is eager to help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity. Whether you are in a child custody battle or just want to get divorced as quickly and simply as possible, we are here to help.

Contact us today online or call 210-222-9132 to learn more about how we can assist you.