TEXAS DIVORCE: Navigating the Course
Going through a divorce is oftentimes a traumatic period of transition. The emotional tension placed upon other family members will likely quadruple if your divorce turns into a nasty, hard fought custody battle.
Understanding the court's role and knowing what to expect can significantly help to reduce some of the anxiety and intimidation of the legal process. Having a healthy appreciation of the fact that the court's role is neither to punish the other party nor to obtain some form of justice for the wrongs the other party may have committed during the marriage should also dampen any thoughts of endlessly throwing mud at the other party or using a child as a weapon against the other party. A lack of knowledge about the process and unrealistic expectations about the court's role prolongs the divorce process, while substantially increasing the costs and doing irreparable harm to familial relationships.
Courts seek to come up with a “just and right” division of marital property and a parenting plan that is in the “ best interest of the child.” Having a well-grounded understanding and appreciation for those two guiding principles will greatly assist you in obtaining a divorce as efficiently and amiably as possible.
A good attorney will not only provide you with an honest assessment of your unique set of circumstances, but should also explain the key factors considered by courts when making property division and custody determinations, and then assist you with formulating a legal strategy that takes into to consideration the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Obtaining your desired outcome requires excellent preparation, perseverance, and a great deal of patience.