Married to single: Tips for a smooth transition after divorce in Texas

May 09, 2013

Married to single: Tips for a smooth transition after divorce in Texas

Article provided by Hortick & White, PLLC
Visit us at http://www.jsw-law.com/

Divorce is a difficult process. With nearly 50 percent of married couples ending their relationship in divorce, many couples find themselves navigating through this complicated emotional and financial separation.

Legal and financial experts have noticed some common mistakes made by divorcing couples. Being aware of these common missteps can help you avoid making them yourself and increase your odds of a smooth transition from married to single life.

Avoid these common mistakes

In order to help ease the transition back into singlehood, it is important to keep the following in mind:
-Avoid rushed decisions
-Do not be afraid to seek professional assistance
-Take the time to carefully review finances

The number one tip: do not rush. Whether you initiated the divorce or were surprised with divorce paperwork, it is important to seriously consider all major decisions. It may be tempting to hurry through the process in an attempt to find closure and put the divorce behind you, but this could lead to serious financial strife in the future. Taking the time to review all assets and make sure a settlement is fair can help to better ensure a more stable financial future after divorce.

In addition to taking the time to carefully consider all major decisions, it is also wise to seek help. Although an individual can file for divorce without the assistance of professionals, legal experts can help provide clients with a better result. These professionals can help ensure a more stable financial life post divorce by carefully reviewing all assets and debts when developing and negotiating the divorce settlement.

The cost of using these experts can be reduced by properly preparing for meetings. Show up to the meeting with the needed documents, this can include estate plans, stock portfolios and pension paperwork.

While preparing these documents, make a list of all the debts incurred during the marriage. Some common debts married couples have are found in mortgages and credit cards. Be aware of who will remain responsible for the debts after the divorce is finalized. If no longer responsible for a mortgage, make sure your name is removed from the paperwork and home's title.

Texas law and divorce

Under state law, if the courts are involved the court will divide the property as it deems "just and right." The court can take various factors into consideration, including the presence of any children from the marriage. Texas does not require property divided in a divorce be completed by the courts. The couple can present a written agreement to the court. If the court approves of the agreement, it will be legally binding.

Whether you plan on developing on agreement with or without court intervention, it is wise to seek the counsel of an experienced Texas divorce attorney to better ensure a fair outcome.