The steps in a divorce lawsuit in Texas can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, but generally the process follows these steps:
File a petition for divorce:
One spouse (the petitioner) must file a petition for divorce with the appropriate court. This document must be served on the other spouse (the respondent).
Response to the petition:
The respondent has the opportunity to file a written response to the petition for divorce.
Temporary orders:
Either spouse can request temporary orders, which are court orders that are in effect while the divorce is pending. These orders can address issues such as child custody, child support, and possession of the marital home.
Discovery:
The parties can gather information and evidence through a process called discovery. This can include exchanging written questions and documents, taking depositions, and requesting inspections of property.
Mediation:
Some courts require the parties to attend mediation in an attempt to resolve their disputes and come to an agreement.
Trial:
If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case will proceed to trial, where a judge will make decisions on the outstanding issues in the case.
Final orders:
After the trial, the judge will issue final orders resolving all outstanding issues in the case, including property division, child custody, and child support.
Appeal:
Either party has the right to appeal the court’s final orders to a higher court.
It’s important to note that this is just a general overview of the divorce process in Texas. It’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and responsibilities in a divorce case.