There may come a point in your marriage when you and your spouse feel divorce is the answer. As people start down this path, they often wonder – is there a tangible benefit to being the first one to file for divorce?
In some cases, the answer is yes.
Why Filing for Divorce First Is a Good Thing
When you’re headed toward a hotly contested divorce, it’s only natural to think that filing for divorce first might give you the upper hand and possibly add a layer of protection moving forward. Sometimes, this is certainly the case. For amicable divorces, filing first is often irrelevant. However, for highly contested cases, it can be critical when there are emergency issues, jurisdictional issues, or even strategic planning considerations. Many people also feel that filing first gives them more time to prepare for the role of petitioner versus if they were the respondent. The reality is that divorce is a complex process with many potential twists and turns, and every piece of the process, including the timing of the first filing, can be critical for the outcome of a case.
Whatever the situation, simply filing for divorce is the first step. Texas has a 60-day waiting period after you or your spouse file that petition. That means a judge cannot even rule on your pending divorce case until that timeframe ends (unless the case involves domestic violence).
From there, several complex issues need to be addressed. Depending on your case, this could include:
- Property division
- Financial negotiations
- Custody
- Spousal maintenance
- Missing documentation
- Unforeseen circumstances
If you are the one filing for divorce, it’s important to know that the attorneys at Christman | Daniell Attorneys, have a unique and refreshing approach to the often turbulent and emotionally stressful disputes arising in the context of divorce, child custody, and other family law cases. Our firm anchors its representation and legal advice in principles and philosophies that focus on the long-term best interests of children and families. We are committed to supporting and guiding you through the dark days of marital discord and crisis.
Please call Christman | Daniell for your legal needs today!
Looking for family law services in Collin County, Texas? Christman | Daniell is your premier choice. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the legal landscape, our skilled team is dedicated to helping families navigate complex legal matters. Whether it’s divorce, child custody, or adoption, trust Christman | Daniell to provide compassionate and effective representation for all your family law needs throughout Collin County.
