Divorce is rarely easy, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or overly stressful. Whether your divorce is uncontested or contested, understanding the process and what to expect can help you navigate this significant life change with confidence. At the Law Office of Steven C. Buitron, we specialize in handling both uncontested divorces and contested divorces, always prioritizing our client’s best interests.
Uncontested Divorce: A Faster, More Affordable Option
If you and your spouse agree on all terms of your divorce, an uncontested divorce may be the simplest and most cost-effective solution. Uncontested divorces are ideal for couples who can reach an agreement on key issues such as:
- Child Custody and Support
- Division of Property and Debts
- Spousal Maintenance (if applicable)
How Does It Work?
- Flat Fee Structure
At our firm, we offer a flat fee for uncontested divorces, plus filing fees. This ensures no hidden costs and full transparency. - Scope of Representation
Our services include:- Drafting and filing the Original Petition for Divorce.
- Preparing a Waiver of Service for your spouse to sign.
- Drafting the Final Decree of Divorce.
- Representing you in the final court appearance to finalize your divorce.
- Timeline
Uncontested divorces in Texas can often be completed in 8 to 10 weeks, depending on the court’s schedule and other variables.
Why Choose an Uncontested Divorce?
- Cost-Effective: It avoids the high costs associated with litigation.
- Faster Resolution: Without disputes, the process moves quickly.
- Less Stressful: It minimizes emotional strain, especially for families with children.
When an Uncontested Divorce Becomes Contested
Even the most amicable divorces can hit roadblocks. A divorce may become contested if:
- Your spouse fails to sign or return the required documents.
- They hire an attorney or refuse to agree to previously settled terms.
- New disagreements arise regarding property, child custody, or support.
What Happens Then?
If your uncontested divorce becomes contested, we will continue to represent you, transitioning the case to an hourly fee structure. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue a favorable resolution, whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
Contested Divorce: Navigating Complex Disputes
If you and your spouse cannot agree on key issues, a contested divorce becomes necessary. These cases involve more steps, but with the right legal guidance, you can still achieve a fair outcome.
How Does a Contested Divorce Work?
- Filing and Service
The process begins with drafting and filing an Original Petition for Divorce, which is served to your spouse. - Answer and Discovery
- Your spouse must file an Answer within 20 days of being served.
- Both parties exchange Inventory and Appraisement forms, detailing financial accounts, property, and debts.
- Temporary Orders
If needed, the court may issue temporary orders to address:- Who resides in the marital home.
- Temporary child custody and support arrangements.
- Financial responsibilities during the divorce process.
- Mediation
Mediation is often required before trial. It allows both parties to negotiate terms with the help of a neutral mediator. Most cases settle at this stage, saving time and money. - Trial
If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial, where a judge (and sometimes a jury) decides unresolved issues.
Why Mediation is Preferable
In most cases, mediation is far more advantageous than going to trial. A Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA) is the product of thoughtful discussion and compromise, giving both parties control over the outcome. Conversely, a trial leaves the decision entirely in the hands of a judge, which can feel arbitrary and may not fully address your needs. Additionally, mediation is typically less expensive and less emotionally taxing than a courtroom battle.
How to Keep Your Divorce Uncontested
Maintaining an uncontested divorce status requires cooperation and careful communication. Here are some tips to help:
- Avoid Unnecessary Conflict: Keep discussions respectful and focused on solutions.
- Follow Local Standard Orders: Adhere to any standing orders issued by the court, which often prohibit actions like transferring assets or removing children from the jurisdiction.
- Encourage Communication: If your spouse has questions, suggest they speak with your attorney to address concerns directly.
Choosing the Right Divorce Attorney
No matter the type of divorce, having the right attorney is critical. At the Law Office of Steven C. Buitron, we understand that every case is unique and treat our clients with compassion, respect, and professionalism. Mr. Buitron personally handles each case, with the assistance of trusted paraprofessionals, ensuring you receive the dedicated representation you deserve.
We pride ourselves on:
- Transparent Pricing: Whether flat fees for uncontested divorces or retainer agreements for contested cases, we are upfront about costs.
- Responsive Communication: We keep you informed at every step of the process.
- Experienced Advocacy: From simple, uncontested divorces to complex trials, we work tirelessly to achieve the best results for our clients.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been served with divorce papers or are ready to file for divorce, contact the Law Office of Steven C. Buitron today. Whether your case is uncontested or contested, we’ll guide you through the process with care and expertise. Take the first step toward a fresh start by scheduling your free consultation today.