Belton Divorce Lawyers

A Firm with a Track Record of Success

Divorce is never an easy decision. It can be a highly emotional and expensive process. Many divorce cases drag on for months or, in some cases, years.

Our firm helps clients get through the process as favorably as possible. We understand how challenging it can be to go through a divorce. That's why our team provides compassionate and individualized legal counsel to each client.

Call the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard at (254) 220-4225.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

Every divorce is different because every couple is unique. People decide to pursue divorce for a number of reasons, ranging from infidelity to irreconcilable differences. Regardless of the reason for your divorce, the filing process is complicated, and you will likely need the help of an attorney as you work through the proceedings.

There are many factors to consider in a divorce, like whether it’s contested, or whether one party is at fault more so than another. A contested divorce is when both parties cannot agree on property division, custody and visitation, and/or spousal support. If your divorce is contested, it will likely take an extended period of time to resolve. This happens because you may need mediation or several modifications to your agreement. Not only do contested divorces take more time, but they also cost more money, whereas uncontested divorces take less time and rely on the cooperation of both parties to be completed amicably.

Fault vs. No-Fault Divorce Cases

Another factor in divorce is fault. In Texas, individuals can file a no-fault or fault-based divorce. For example, a no-fault divorce may be the result of irreconcilable differences. On the other hand, a fault-based divorce could be due to abuse or infidelity.

Grounds for a fault-based divorce include:

• Cruelty
• Felony conviction
• Abandonment
• Separation for three or more years

Judges may award more communal property to the party who is not at fault.

In no-fault cases, the division of property is mostly even. That said, the specific evidence related to your divorce case determines the outcome, meaning there are no guaranteed results. However, an attorney can help you protect your assets and fight for your rights to ensure you’re satisfied with the ultimate terms of the divorce.

Communal vs. Separate Property

Property also plays a role in divorce. In Texas, property is either communal or separate. Communal property is anything under joint ownership or purchased with joint funds during the marriage. In contrast, individual property is what either party owned before the marriage or purchased with separate funds during the marriage. For example, a car purchased with a joint bank account during the marriage would be communal, but if you bought it with inheritance money left exclusively to you, it would be separate.

Property division can be one of the most challenging factors to work through in a divorce. One reason is that pensions and retirement are communal, but dividing these funds is incredibly time-consuming and complicated. Another reason is that property may be one of the main issues both parties disagree on in a contested divorce. Ultimately, you should consult a qualified legal professional with experience in property division to ensure your belongings are properly protected during the division process.

Supporting You Every Step of the Way

Divorce is an emotionally charged, painful, and complex situation for families. The outcome of your case can be affected depending on the contributing factors discussed above. That's why our attorneys provide support throughout the divorce process. We work with you to ensure that your rights and interests are protected. Our team proves our dedication with a hands-on approach so you can be sure that we have your best interests in mind.

Contact Belton divorce attorneys at the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard today.