How costly, simple, and/or difficult your divorce is depends on several factors, especially the relationship between you and your spouse, the complexity of your case, and the type of legal services you choose.
If you and your spouse can reach agreements on issues such as child custody, child support, and property division, you can potentially minimize the cost of your divorce and make it much less stressful.
However, if you and your spouse are unable to reach agreements on your own, you may need to go through litigation, which is the process of having a judge decide your divorce case.
This is why it’s important to hire a Tarrant County divorce lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours — and that’s where the team here at the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy comes in.
We make you feel comfortable through the divorce process and are here to represent your best interests. With this in mind, here are some tips to help your divorce go more smoothly:
- Be prepared to compromise. It is unlikely that you will get everything you want in your divorce.
- Be willing to negotiate. It is often possible to reach agreements with your spouse without going to court.
- Be organized. Gather all of your financial documents and other relevant information before you meet with us.
- Be honest. We need to know all of the facts about your case to represent you effectively.
Remember, divorce is a major life event. It is important to invest in an experienced Texas divorce lawyer at The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy to help you protect your rights and interests.
Get the support you need with our Tarrant County Divorce Lawyer. Schedule a free consultation today to understand your options and move forward with confidence.
Why Choose Our Divorce Lawyers in Tarrant County?
Choosing the right divorce lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our Tarrant County divorce lawyers bring a combination of experience, customized strategies, and compassionate support to every case we handle.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Legal Advocacy: With decades of experience handling divorce cases in Tarrant County, our firm has a deep understanding of local family law and the court systems in the area. We have successfully represented clients through tricky divorces, child custody battles, and property division issues, ensuring they have the best possible legal support.
- Customized Legal Strategies: No two divorce cases are alike, which is why we tailor our approach based on each client’s unique circumstances and goals. Whether through mediation to reach an amicable agreement or aggressive litigation when necessary, we develop a plan that aligns with your best interests and desired outcomes. We aim to resolve cases efficiently while prioritizing what matters most to you.
- Compassionate and Transparent Communication: Divorce is a challenging, emotionally taxing process, and we’re committed to supporting you through every step. Our attorneys are dedicated to keeping you informed, answering your questions promptly, and providing clear, honest guidance. We understand the emotional toll of divorce and strive to make the legal process as manageable as possible for our clients.
If you’re ready to discuss your divorce case and learn how our team can support you, contact us for a consultation. We’re here to help you through this difficult time and protect your future as legal counsel.
Our Divorce Services in Tarrant County
Our divorce lawyers in Tarrant County provide comprehensive support through all aspects of the divorce process. Whether you’re dealing with a straightforward, uncontested case or a property dispute, our team has the experience and dedication to guide you effectively.
In an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on terms, making the process quicker and often less costly. In contested cases, where disagreements on issues like custody, support, or asset division arise, our attorneys advocate fiercely for your rights.
We guide clients through both scenarios, providing strategic support to resolve conflicts as efficiently as possible.
Our priority in custody cases is to secure arrangements that serve the child’s best interests, ensuring a fair, balanced solution. We offer detailed guidance in calculating child support based on Texas guidelines, considering factors like parental income and the child’s needs.
Our team is dedicated to helping clients achieve custody terms that work for the entire family with our legal services.
For cases involving spousal support, we assess factors such as the length of the marriage, financial disparities, and each party’s need to pursue fair and reasonable support arrangements. Our team ensures that any alimony agreements reflect the couple’s specific circumstances, advocating for fair support for both parties.
Texas law mandates equitable division of marital assets, which can be particularly difficult with high-value assets, business interests, or retirement accounts. Our attorneys have extensive experience in Tarrant County handling detailed property and asset divisions, ensuring that clients receive a fair distribution that aligns with Texas guidelines.
In situations involving domestic violence, our priority is client safety. We assist in obtaining protective orders swiftly and effectively, providing support and legal protection when needed.
Our team takes allegations of domestic abuse seriously and works diligently to ensure clients have the resources and protection necessary to feel secure.
We also offer support in a wide range of divorce-related matters, including but not limited to:
- Common-law marriage (Informal Marriage)
- Complex Property Division
- Contempt Proceedings
- Divorce for Business Owners
- Divorce for Men and Women
- Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders
- Estate Planning
- Father’s Rights
- Flat-Fee Divorce Options
- Grandparent Visitation and Custody Rights
- High Conflict Divorce
- High Net Worth Divorces
- LGBTQ+ Divorce
- Marital Agreements
- Mental Health and Addiction in Divorce
- Modifications to Support or Custody
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Protection Orders
- Spousal Maintenance
Have you experienced a divorce? Or, are you wondering how much divorce will cost?
Our lawyers can be your affordable divorce support. If you need expert guidance in any of these areas, our Tarrant County divorce attorneys are here to help.
About Our Tarrant County Divorce Attorneys
Our team’s proven success includes securing favorable results by paying close attention to each detail, gathering vital information, and tailoring strategies to fit each client’s unique circumstances. Recognizing the personal and financial strains of divorce, we work to simplify the process while defending your rights at every turn.
With over 35 years focused solely on family law, our firm brings seasoned experience to divorce cases and other family law matters in Tarrant County. We’re committed to achieving positive outcomes in every case, whether it involves child custody, spousal support, property division, or other aspects of divorce.
Our deep familiarity with Tarrant County and family court procedures allows us to guide clients confidently through every stage, providing clear communication and compassionate representation. If you’d like to discuss your case, contact us at (972) 528-0481 to schedule a consultation and explore how we can support you.
Talk to our Tarrant County divorce lawyer today. Get a free consultation to learn about your options and take the next step.
The Divorce Process in Texas
A typical divorce will follow the below process; however, please note that this will depend on the nuances of your situation, and we will tailor our guidance to your case:
Before divorce proceedings begin, one spouse must file a petition with the court for a divorce. This spouse is known as the petitioner, plaintiff, or person filing for divorce. Attorneys usually draw up the petition.
The initial petition often demands much more than the petitioner expects, such as alimony, child support, and assets. This is because the petition is a negotiation starting point.
The other spouse, the respondent, defendant, or person who did not file for divorce, has a limited time to file a response, usually admitting or denying each assertion and asking the court to deny the petitioner’s request. With the response, the respondent can also file a cross-petition, counterclaim, or cross-complaint to set forth their position on the basic facts and the relief they seek.
It is always a good idea for the respondent to file a cross-petition, especially if they have demands of their own, such as alimony, child support, or assets. Without a cross-petition, the respondent could be at a disadvantage in court.
Early in the divorce process, parties may file motions for temporary orders to address urgent issues, such as child custody, child support, alimony, or use of the marital home.
However, most parties prefer to reach a temporary agreement without going to court, as this can save money on attorney fees and create a more positive impression on the judge.
Discovery is the process of gathering information about your spouse and the circumstances of your marriage. This information will help us build a strong case for you for trial.
In addition to gathering favorable information about yourself, it is also important to anticipate your opponent’s case. This means thinking about the allegations your spouse is likely to make and gathering evidence to refute them — this is something we will do for you.
Winning a favorable judgment requires being prepared to deal with your spouse’s allegations. By anticipating your spouse’s case during discovery, we can develop a strong defense and increase your chances of success.
It is common for divorce cases to settle on the day of trial, or even during trial. Settlement agreements have several important advantages.
- Control: A settlement agreement allows you and your spouse to have more control over the outcome of your divorce. Instead of leaving your fate to the hands of a judge, we can negotiate an agreement for you that meets your specific needs and goals.
- Anxiety: Many clients prefer settlements to avoid the uncertainty and anxiety of a trial. Knowing that your divorce is finalized can be a relief, even if the settlement is not perfect.
- Cost: Trials can be expensive, and the cost can increase significantly as the trial date approaches. Settling can save you money on attorney fees and other expenses.
While it is tempting to negotiate directly with your spouse, it is almost always a mistake. Even if an attorney from our firm is involved, direct negotiations can lead to unrealistic expectations and miscommunication. This can make it more difficult to settle and can increase your overall legal costs.
Additional tips for negotiating a divorce settlement:
- Be prepared to compromise. It is unlikely that you will get everything you want in a settlement agreement. Be willing to give up some things to get the things that are most important to you.
- Be realistic. Consider your spouse’s needs and interests when negotiating. It is important to reach an agreement that is fair to both of you.
- Get everything in writing. Once you have reached an agreement, it is important to put it in writing and have it reviewed by an attorney from our firm. This will help to avoid future disputes.
If you are considering a divorce, it is important to speak with our experienced divorce attorneys to discuss your options and protect your rights.
In many states, you will be required to attend at least one mandatory settlement conference, also known as a divorce pretrial conference. This is a meeting between the attorneys for both parties and the judge, where they will discuss the merits of the case and try to settle.
Pretrial conferences can be a valuable opportunity for both sides to fully realize the emotional and financial costs of a trial. This can lead to more rational negotiations.
The judge’s demeanor during the pretrial conference is very important. After hearing an overview of the facts, the judge may offer their opinion on the case and suggest possible settlement terms.
Some states may require a mediation of status conference in place of the divorce pretrial conference. Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party helps the parties to settle.
Tips for preparing for a divorce pretrial conference:
- Be prepared to discuss the facts of your case and your desired outcome.
- Be prepared to compromise. It is unlikely that you will get everything you want in a settlement agreement.
- Be respectful and professional to the judge and your spouse’s attorney.
If you have any questions about the divorce pretrial conference process, be sure to ask the attorney we assign to your case.
While a minority of divorces go to trial, the likelihood of a trial varies depending on factors such as:
- Income level
- Length of marriage
- The wife’s occupation
The length of a trial depends on the time allocated by the court and the number and complexity of issues to be decided. Trials can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks.
A typical trial process is:
- The petitioner (the spouse who filed for divorce) presents evidence first by calling witnesses and introducing exhibits.
- Once the petitioner rests, the respondent (the spouse who did not file for divorce) presents their case.
- After both sides have rested, the court may allow the petitioner to present rebuttal testimony to respond to the respondent’s evidence.
Opening and closing arguments are not typically used in divorce trials, but some courts allow them.
During the trial, the judge will listen to the evidence presented by both sides and make a ruling on the issues before them. The ruling may include decisions about child custody, child support, alimony, and the division of property.
If you are facing a divorce trial, it is important to be prepared. This includes working with our attorney to develop a strong case and gathering all of the necessary evidence.
Here are some tips for preparing for a divorce trial:
- Work with our attorney to develop a case strategy. This should include identifying the key issues in your case and gathering the necessary evidence.
- Be prepared to testify. This means practicing your testimony ahead of time and being able to answer questions clearly and concisely.
- Be aware of the trial process. This includes knowing the order of events and what to expect from each witness.
- Be respectful and professional to the judge, your attorney, and your spouse’s attorney.
Divorce can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. We can help you through the process and protect your rights.
Divorce can trigger a torrent of emotions, from anger to anxiety to depression. But even though this is a difficult experience, you cannot simply call in sick.
Your interests (and your children’s interests) depend on your ability to push through and make rational decisions. You must separate grievances that are significantly related to your children’s welfare from those that are personally offensive to you, no matter how serious they may be.
Remember that you are not alone on this journey. Our attorney will be your primary advisor, but many of the most important considerations are outside of our purview.
Therefore, it is usually helpful to seek advice from others whose knowledge and judgment you respect, such as a counselor.
Always talk to your attorney first. Friends and family can be helpful, but they may also make things worse. Knowing when to listen means knowing when to ignore.
- Allow yourself to feel your emotions. It is important to acknowledge and process your feelings, even the difficult ones.
- Talk to someone you trust. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or support group.
- Take care of yourself. This means eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.
- Avoid making major life decisions during your divorce. It is important to give yourself time to heal before making any big changes.
Divorce can be a difficult and painful experience, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help you through this.
Consult with our divorce lawyer today and find the best option for your situation.
Common Issues in Divorce That We See & How to Overcome Them
Divorce can involve a wide range of possible issues requiring effective resolutions. Some of the most common include:
Conservatorship is a major part of any divorce involving children in Texas. It refers to the legal right and responsibility to care for a child, including making decisions about their upbringing, education, and healthcare.
There are two types of conservatorship in Texas:
- Joint managing conservatorship: Both parents have equal rights and responsibilities to make decisions about the child’s upbringing.
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- Sole managing conservatorship: One parent has the primary right and responsibility to make decisions about the child’s upbringing.
The type of conservatorship that is best for your child will depend on their specific needs and circumstances.
In most cases, joint managing conservatorship is preferred, as it allows both parents to maintain a close relationship with their child. However, sole managing conservatorship may be necessary if there are concerns about the other parent’s ability to care for the child safely and effectively.
If you are going through a divorce in Texas, it is important to talk to an experienced Tarrant County family lawyer from our firm about your conservatorship options. We can help you understand your rights and develop a plan to protect your child’s best interests.
When deciding conservatorship, the court will consider the following factors:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The child’s needs and well-being
- The parents’ ability to care for the child
- The parents’ willingness to cooperate with each other
The court will also consider the child’s preference if they are old enough and mature enough to express one. If you have any questions or concerns about conservatorship, please speak with an attorney from our team at your earliest convenience.
In Texas, both parents are required to financially support their child after a divorce. This can be done through an agreement between the parents or through a court order. If you are going through a divorce in Texas, it is important to have a Tarrant family law attorney from our law firm on your side to help you negotiate a fair child support order.
Factors that the court will consider when determining child support include the following:
- Income of both parents
- Needs of the child
- Number of children
- Day-to-day living expenses of the child
- Cost of childcare
- Cost of health insurance
- Cost of education
The court will also consider any other relevant factors, such as the child’s special needs or the parents’ earning potential.
If you are unable to agree with your spouse on a child support amount, the court will hold a hearing to determine child support. At the hearing, both parents will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue their case. The judge will then issue a child support order based on the evidence and the factors listed above.
Child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in the parents’ income or the child’s needs.
Establishing paternity is another vital part of any Texas divorce or conservatorship case. While mothers automatically have parental rights at the time their child is born, fathers in Texas must establish paternity to have the same rights and responsibilities.
There are two main ways to establish paternity in Texas:
- Voluntary acknowledgment: Both parents can sign a document acknowledging the father’s paternity. This document must be filed with the Vital Statistics Unit.
- Court order: If the parents cannot agree to a voluntary acknowledgment, the father can file a petition with the court to establish paternity. The court may order the parents to undergo a paternity test.
If paternity is established, the father has the same rights and responsibilities as the mother, including the right to child custody, visitation, and support.
There are many reasons why it is important to establish paternity, including:
- Legal rights: Fathers who have not established paternity do not have the same legal rights as fathers who have. This means that they may not be able to have custody of their children, make decisions about their children’s upbringing, or receive child support.
- Financial support: Fathers who have established paternity are legally obligated to provide financial support for their children.
- Government benefits: Children who are born to married parents are automatically eligible for certain government benefits, such as Social Security and Medicare. Children born to unmarried parents may also be eligible for these benefits, but the father must establish paternity for the child to qualify.
- Emotional support: Children need to know who their father is. Establishing paternity can help children develop a healthy sense of identity and self-worth.
If you are a father in Texas and you have not established paternity, it is important to do so as soon as possible. You can contact a family law attorney from our firm to help you understand your rights and options.
Marital or community property is all property and debts acquired during the marriage, regardless of which spouse acquired them, except for gifts and inheritances to one spouse.
Here are the key elements of asset and property division in a divorce:
- Non-marital or separate property is all property and debts owned by one spouse before the marriage, as well as gifts and inheritances to one spouse during the marriage.
- Commingled property is once non-marital property, but has become marital because it was traded in to acquire new property, repaired or enhanced during the marriage with marital funds, or used to pay non-marital debts.
- Dissipation is the use of marital assets or the creation of marital debt by one spouse for non-marital purposes after the marriage has begun to unravel. The spouse found to have caused dissipation may be required to reimburse the marital estate.
- A premarital agreement is a contract between two people who are planning to get married. It can be used to specify which property will be considered separate property and which property will be considered marital property.
- If real estate is acquired in joint names or transferred into joint ownership during the marriage, it will generally be considered marital property. However, there are some ways to protect real estate from becoming marital property, such as creating a trust or using a marital agreement.
- Business property acquired during the marriage is generally considered marital property. However, there are some ways to protect business property from becoming marital property, such as creating a business entity, such as a corporation or limited liability company.
- Bank accounts and investments acquired during the marriage are generally considered marital property. However, there are some ways to protect bank accounts and investments from becoming marital property, such as keeping them separate and keeping track of all transactions.
- It is important to designate beneficiaries for your assets and to have a will. If you do not have a will, state law will determine how your property is distributed.
- If you are involved in a child support or spousal support case, it is important to keep your assets and income separate from your spouse’s. This will help to protect your assets and income from being used to pay child support or spousal support.
If you have any questions about property division in your divorce, you should consult with an attorney from our law firm at your earliest convenience.
Protection orders are often used strategically in family law cases, especially divorce cases when child custody and visitation are in dispute. This is a misuse of the system, as protection orders are intended to protect victims of abuse.
Protection orders, also known as restraining orders or domestic violence injunctions, are all powerful tools that can be used to restrict a person’s contact with another person or to prevent them from entering a certain location.
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In divorce cases, some people may use protection orders to try to gain an advantage over their spouse. For example, they may file a protection order alleging abuse to obtain sole custody of the children or to force their spouse out of the marital home.
Note that protection orders should only be used in cases of genuine abuse. If you are considering filing a protection order, you should consult with our attorney to make sure that you meet the legal requirements.
Here are some tips for protecting yourself from misuse of protection orders in a divorce case:
- Be aware of the signs of abuse. Abuse can be physical, emotional, or financial. If you are being abused, it is important to seek help from a professional.
- Document any abuse that occurs. This may include keeping a journal, saving text messages or emails, or taking photos or videos of injuries.
- If you are considering filing a protection order, consult with our attorneys. We can help you understand the legal requirements and can represent you in court.
- If you have been served with a protection order, be sure to follow the terms of the order. If you violate a protection order, you could be arrested and charged with a crime.
Serving Tarrant County and Neighboring Cities
Our divorce attorneys provide dedicated support to clients throughout Tarrant County, TX, and we’re well-acquainted with the unique processes of local family courts.
Our firm’s commitment extends beyond the major cities in the county, such as Fort Worth—we assist clients in all cities and towns across the county.
While we cover every county in The Lone Star State, we have a particular focus on:
- Dallas County
- Tarrant County
If you’re looking for skilled legal support in any of these areas, schedule a free consultation with our trusted divorce attorneys to discuss how we can assist with your case.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Tarrant County Divorce Lawyers
We understand that every divorce case is unique, and our team is dedicated to listening to your concerns, understanding your goals, and developing a strategy tailored specifically to your situation. Scheduling an initial consultation allows you to discuss your circumstances in a confidential setting and receive insights on the best approach for moving forward.
Our commitment is to guide you through the divorce process with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. Whether you’re dealing with complicated property divisions, child custody matters, or other sensitive issues, we’re here to offer experienced legal support from start to finish.
Contact our family lawyers team today to take the first step toward a resolution that works for you if you have experienced a divorce.
Call us at (972) 445-9909 or fill out our online consultation form to schedule your free consultation.