5 Steps to Take Before Filing for Divorce in Texas

 Posted on March 20, 2025 in Family Law

Filing for divorce is a big decision that requires careful preparation. If you are considering ending your marriage in Texas, there are several steps you can take beforehand that can help protect your rights, streamline the process, and reduce stress. Of course, if you are thinking about divorce, the most important step is to speak with a knowledgeable Texas divorce lawyer who can help you understand the state’s divorce laws and the process you can expect.

Step 1: Understand Your Finances

Whether you are struggling financially, you have a significant marital estate to divide, or you fall somewhere in between, divorce certainly brings about financial changes. Before you can consider how you and your spouse will divide your assets, you must first understand what those assets are and where you stand.

Before you file for divorce, you should collect documents, including:

• Bank account and credit card statements
• Mortgage and property records
• Retirement accounts
• Investment portfolios
• Insurance policies

A comprehensive record of your assets and debts can help ensure a fair division of property.

Step 2: Create a Budget for Post-Divorce Life

Take some time to think about how your expenses will likely change after the divorce. Calculate your anticipated living costs, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities, childcare, and other essential expenses. Establishing a budget will help you prepare for financial independence and understand what you will need to meet your obligations.

Step 3: Gather Important Documents

In addition to all the financial documents you need to collect, you should gather key documents for other areas of life. Having your marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, tax returns, employment records, home rental or mortgage contract, and car title and registration organized in one place can save you stress down the line. It also means you will have all the information you need to begin negotiations or court proceedings.

Step 4: Think About a Parenting Plan

If you have children, it is a good idea to start thinking about how you envision parenting after divorce. You can consider what your ideal plan would be and what you believe your spouse will want and will agree to. Drafting a proposed parenting plan can help the court understand your preferences and demonstrate your commitment to your child’s well-being.

Step 5: Prioritize Your Emotional Well-Being

Divorce can be emotionally draining. You might want to consider counseling or joining a support group to help you cope with the stress and hear from others going through a similar process. Taking care of your mental and emotional health will enable you to make clearer decisions throughout the process.

Contact a Parker County, TX Divorce Lawyer

Before you file for divorce, there are several things you can do to make the process smoother. While collecting important documents and mentally preparing for post-divorce financial and parenting decisions are crucial, the best thing you can do is work with a qualified and experienced Palo Pinto, TX family law attorney. At The Law Offices of Kary L. Key we understand how overwhelmed you might feel and we are dedicated to providing you with the guidance you need to achieve a fair outcome. Call us at 817-599-6969 so we can get started.