Denton, Texas Divorce Attorneys
The nature of divorce varies from couple to couple—some divorces are simple and others are complex. In either case, the divorce process usually goes more smoothly under the experienced guidance of a divorce attorney.
If you are considering divorce, also consider the experienced family law attorneys of Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, L.L.P. We represent clients in a wide variety of family law matters. Contact our law office online or call 940-222-6565 to schedule a consultation.
Uncontested Divorce
A divorce is uncontested when both couples agree and settle on the terms for child custody, child support, division of assets, and alimony (also called spousal maintenance/support). At Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, L.L.P., whenever possible, our lawyers help clients divorce without resorting to litigation. We can often handle issues in conflict through negotiation or collaborative law (see below).
Our firm drafts and files all necessary documentation for uncontested divorce. Couples avoid having to go to court except for a final hearing where they simply answer questions required by law. At the final hearing, the court will grant divorce, formally dissolving the marriage. Our firm provides clients with copies of the final decree.
Contested Divorce
When couples are in dispute over child custody, child support, division of assets or alimony, the divorce is considered contested. Texas courts favor settlements and often order mediation before they allow a case to be heard. A case goes to trial when dispute resolution (mediation or collaborative law) has not worked to resolve disputed issues.
Because divorce encompasses many factors, some divorces are a mixture of contested and uncontested issues. For example, a couple may agree on terms for child custody, alimony, and child support, but be in dispute regarding division of assets. In such a case, the parties' lawyers would only litigate the division of assets aspect of their divorce.
Even when a case goes to trial, parties can settle at any point during litigation before the judge or jury renders a verdict.
Collaborative Law
Generally less expensive and time consuming than litigation, collaborative law provides the benefit of divorce lawyers and spouses working together in a cooperative effort to resolve their differences. Parties strive to arrive at agreements that benefit the family as a whole. At the outset, spouses and their lawyers must agree not to litigate. Professionals are frequently brought in for consultation, such as financial advisors for property division and debt, or mental health professionals to act as communication coaches. All parties involved strive to help spouses achieve their goals and to make the divorce process as stress free as possible.
Typically, spouses using collaborative law take the decision process out of the hands of a judge or jury, which allows them to achieve a more favorable outcome that fulfills their needs. In some cases, parties find they are more capable of dealing with future family issues on their own. Because conflict is minimized, collaborative divorce is much easier on children, and the likelihood of maintaining an amicable relationship after divorce is much greater than with couples that use litigation to divorce.
Contact a Lewisville Family Lawyer Today
While our divorce lawyers at Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, L.L.P. are very skilled litigators, we are equally skilled in collaborative law. We tailor our efforts to what is best for you. See how we can help with divorce. Arrange a consultation today by contacting us online or calling 940-222-6565.