Texas Divorce Decree: The Final Step

Last Updated on September 28, 2023 by Benson Varghese

In Texas, the divorce process is officially over when a judge signs the final decree of divorce. This legal document legally ends your marriage and contains all of the court’s decisions about your divorce. In this article, we will explain the Texas divorce decree in more detail, including what is in it and how it will guide you moving forward.

What information is contained in a Texas divorce decree?

A Texas divorce decree is a binding legal document that contains the court's final decisions on all of the issues in your divorce. This includes decisions about property division, spousal support, child custody, child support, visitation, and possession. The final decree of divorce will also specify who will pay what debts and court costs. Once it is signed by the judge, you are officially divorced and can move on with your life.

How does a Texas divorce decree work?

divorce decree in Texas

Once the judge signs your divorce decree, it is filed with the court clerk and becomes a public record. This means that anyone can request a copy of a Texas divorce decree from the court clerk's office. Once the decree is final, you and your spouse are legally obligated to follow its terms. If either of you fails to do so, the other party can file an enforcement action with the court to have the terms enforced. You will likely receive a copy of your divorce decree through your attorney shortly after it is signed.

What if I don't follow my Texas divorce decree?

A Texas divorce decree is a court order. If you fail to abide by it, your former spouse can file a motion to enforce the divorce decree. This will bring the matter to court, where a judge can hold you in contempt of court and order you to pay a fine, award your former spouse attorney's fees, or even put you in jail. So, it is very important that you understand the terms of your decree and follow them carefully. If you have not been following your divorce decree, you should speak to an experienced family law attorney to find out what your options are and how to mitigate possible punishment.

Can I modify a divorce decree if the terms are no longer feasible?

Yes. You can file a motion to modify the divorce decree if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since it was issued. For example, if you were ordered to pay child support but have lost your job, you can ask the court to modify the child support order. Your divorce decree must have been in place at least a year before you can move to modify it.

How does a Texas divorce decree impact my life moving forward?

A Texas divorce decree is a binding legal document, the order under which you must live. It dictates how you will divide your property, how you will support your children, and possession and access to them. It is important to understand all the terms of your decree. Once it is signed by the judge, you are legally obligated to follow it.

If you fail to abide by its terms, you could find yourself back in court facing repercussions. If your circumstances change, it's important to file a motion to modify the decree so that you remain in compliance. In essence, the divorce decree will be a part of your life moving forward, so it is important to refer to it as you make decisions about your post-divorce life.

How long after the divorce decree is signed can I remarry?

30 days before remarrying

In Texas, you must wait 30 days after a judge finalizes your divorce to remarry. So, you can marry 31 days after the judge signs your divorce decree.

 

Questions about Texas divorce decree?

We hope this article has helped you better understand the Texas divorce decree and how it can impact your life moving forward. If you have any further questions, please drop them in the comment box below. We will answer them as soon as possible.

If you are seeking a divorce or need help enforcing the terms of your decree, call us at 817-900-3220 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We are located in downtown Fort Worth and serve clients throughout Tarrant County.

For more information, please check out our YouTube Channel.

Turner Thornton
Turner Thornton
Turner Thornton is a well-known family law attorney in Fort Worth who leads the Varghese Summersett Family Law Group. Turner has successfully guided hundreds of individuals and families through the most trying period of their lives as a skilled negotiator and savvy litigator. Turner Thornton concentrates his practice on family law, including divorce, child custody, contempt, and modification cases. He is experienced in handling estates with significant and unique assets that can be difficult to value. He finds amicable resolutions where possible to conserve his client's resources, but knows how to take the gloves off if the situation calls for it. He has had remarkable results in and outside of the courtroom based largely on his ability and desire to understand his clients' needs and guide them on the pathway to what success looks like for them.

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Nicole Carroll | Senior Counsel

Last Updated on February 12, 2024 by Turner Thornton Nicole CarrollSenior Counsel Nicole Carroll is a highly experienced Southlake family law attorney who serves as

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