San Antonio Divorce Attorney

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Whether you’ve mutually decided it’s time to end your marriage or your spouse has sprung divorce papers on you without warning, the road ahead is best navigated with the support and counsel of a trusted San Antonio divorce lawyer.

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, we offer personalized service and aggressive, client-focused representation to people filing for divorce in San Antonio, TX. Our legal team wants to help you start the next chapter of your life on the right foot.

Move forward with confidence. San Antonio's divorce experts are here to fight for your rights. Contact us for a free consultation at (210) 702-2203.

Why It's Important to Hire a Divorce Lawyer

Hiring an attorney is crucial when going through a divorce due to the complex nature of the legal process and the significant impact it has on your life.

Here's why it's essential to have professional legal representation:

Insights into procedures and legal requirements
Knowledgeable guidance
Advocacy for your best interests
Emotional support
Customized approach

Hiring a San Antonio family law attorney ensures you have a dedicated professional who understands the legal landscape and has your best interests at heart.

Why Choose Our Firm to Handle Your Divorce?

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, we embody the qualities you seek in a family law lawyer. Our San Antonio divorce lawyers are compassionate and caring and deliver trustworthy guidance.

Accolades and Recognitions

Our divorce lawyers in San Antonio are dedicated to our clients and providing top-tier legal representation. Our firm stands out in guiding individuals through their journey, and past clients have given us positive reviews.

Additionally, our attorneys have received recognitions from various esteemed sources:

Named to the 2023 Texas Rising Stars List
Scene in S.A. 2023 Top Family Lawyer
Scene in S.A. 2022 Best S.A. Lawyer
Scene in S.A. 2022 Top Family Lawyer
Scene in S.A. 2021 Best S.A. Lawyer
Scene in S.A. 2021 Top Family Lawyer

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Divorce Matters We Handle

With a passion for practicing family law, Attorney Derek Ritchie is prepared to walk you through your divorce and overcome any bumps along the way.

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, we handle:

High net worth divorces: Divorce is difficult for anyone, but high-net-worth couples often face unique challenges when dividing property, determining alimony, and calculating child support. We offer tailored representation that accounts for your specific financial situation.
Uncontested divorces: Even if you and your spouse agree on most of the terms of your divorce, it is still in your best interest to retain legal representation. With the right lawyer on your side, you’ll be positioned for success in the future. Our clients know they can count on us to protect their rights and interests.
Spousal maintenance: After a divorce, the court may agree upon or order spousal maintenance to help the lesser-earning spouse maintain their accustomed standard of living for a set period.
Property division: Texas is a community property state, which means property acquired during the marriage is subject to division. Our attorney can help you understand how property is divided in a Texas divorce and work toward a favorable resolution for you.

Protect your assets and get the best possible outcome with skilled divorce lawyers in San Antonio, Texas. Call for a consultation at (210) 702-2203.

How to File for Divorce in Bexar County, TX

First, hire a divorce attorney near you to assist and represent you through the process.

Once you have representation, here are the first steps in filing for in San Antonio:

Pick up a packet from the courthouse or download Texas divorce papers online
Complete the appropriate paperwork (agreed divorce, default divorce, or contested divorce)
Make two copies of your divorce papers
File your original papers and pay the filing fee
Serve copies of the completed papers to the other party

Before filing papers, however, the first step you should really take is to consult a Bexar County divorce lawyer. A local divorce attorney can help you with the paperwork, ensure that no errors are made, and provide support and guidance as you file.

The Basics of the Divorce Process in Texas

No one ever expects their marriage to end in divorce, but it is an unfortunate reality for many. For many, the divorce process is their first encounter with the court system, and many are unfamiliar with some of the basics of what the experience entails or requires.

Although Texas provides grounds for a no-fault divorce, also known as irreconcilable differences, the state also recognizes divorce based on fault. In Texas, potential grounds for divorce include adultery, abandonment, cruelty, felony conviction, and confinement in a mental hospital.

The Residency Requirement

You must meet the state's residency requirement before you can file for divorce in Texas. You or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months and be a resident in the county where you wish to file for divorce for at least three months. If you meet these requirements, the court could finalize your divorce 60 days after the initial filing.

Key Issues in a Divorce

Several key issues must be addressed in a divorce, including property and asset division, alimony, child support, and child custody, each of which can take considerable time to resolve if you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement on any of them. When spouses disagree on one or more of these issues, they will have a contested divorce. However, if you find yourselves on the same page, you may have an uncontested divorce.

A judge will always put the child’s best interests first when deciding on child custody or child support.

Below are some of the factors a judge will consider when determining custody:

The child’s emotional needs
The relationship the child has with each parent
The child’s developmental needs
The child’s age
Each parent’s work schedule
Each parent’s lifestyle and ability to provide for the child
In some cases, the child’s preference may be considered
Whether either parent has a history of domestic abuse or substance abuse
Any other factors a judge may consider pertinent to supporting the child’s best interests

When it comes to dividing property and assets, Texas is a community property state, which means all marital property will be divided equally.

Additionally, alimony is only granted under specific circumstances. For example, the court will examine the duration of the marriage, any contributions a spouse made as a homemaker, and the earning ability of the spouse seeking alimony.

Count on Us for Trusted Guidance Every Step of the Way

Though we will strive to help you finalize your divorce through mediation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution, we believe no one should feel pressured to accept a less-than-ideal settlement. Our divorce attorneys in San Antonio, TX recognize that sometimes, litigation is necessary. Should we think that taking your case to the courtroom will yield better results, we are prepared to do so.

Getting a divorce is a major life change, and it's important to have experienced San Antonio divorce lawyers on your side. At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, we understand the emotional and legal challenges you're facing, and we're here to help you every step of the way.

Our team of skilled and compassionate lawyers have a proven track record of success in helping clients achieve their desired outcomes in divorce cases. We'll work tirelessly to protect your interests and secure the best possible results for you and your family.

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Our Services

Common Mistakes People Make During a Divorce

Going through a divorce is challenging, and mistakes during this process can have long-lasting consequences. Here are some of the most common missteps individuals make during divorce proceedings:

Not Understanding Financial Implications: One of the most frequent errors is failing to grasp the full financial impact of divorce. This includes not recognizing how assets will be divided and underestimating the future cost of living on a single income. It's crucial to have a clear picture of your financial situation and plan accordingly for post-divorce life.
Failing to Document Assets: Overlooking the importance of documenting marital assets can lead to inequitable distribution. Individuals often forget to account for all assets, such as retirement accounts, investments, and even debts. Thorough documentation ensures a fair division and prevents future disputes.
Letting Emotions Drive Decisions: Divorce is an emotional process, and allowing feelings to dictate decisions can result in unfavorable outcomes. Whether it's rushing through the process to avoid pain or making punitive decisions out of anger, these actions can complicate and prolong the legal proceedings.

How a Divorce Attorney Can Help

Engaging a divorce attorney brings numerous benefits, helping you avoid these common mistakes and safeguarding your interests:

Legal Guidance: An experienced divorce attorney provides informed insights into the legal and financial aspects of divorce. They help clarify the financial implications, ensuring you understand the long-term effects of decisions made during the process.
Protecting Your Interests: Attorneys meticulously document all assets and liabilities, advocating for a fair division. They also offer strategic advice to keep emotions in check, focusing on achieving the best outcomes for you and your family.
Comprehensive Support: With a divorce attorney by your side, you receive support that extends beyond legal advice. They help navigate negotiations and mediate disputes, aiming to reach amicable resolutions that minimize stress and conflict.

By avoiding these common mistakes and enlisting the expertise of a skilled divorce attorney, you can better manage the complexities of divorce and move forward with confidence. At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, our dedicated team is here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Answers From Our Experienced Attorneys

What if my spouse doesn’t want to divorce?

You do not need your spouse’s approval or permission to file for divorce. If you want a divorce, then you can start those proceedings on your own and with the help of an attorney. Finalizing your divorce and figuring out a fair divorce agreement will be a bigger challenge if your spouse does not want to divorce and will not cooperate, but it is not impossible.
How do I know when it is time to divorce?

No one can decide for you when you want to file for divorce. The best advice we can give you as a divorce law firm is to listen to your gut and remember that you deserve to be happy. For more information about deciding to divorce or not, you might be interested in speaking with a marriage counselor.
How long does it take to get a divorce in San Antonio?

The fastest a divorce can be finalized in Texas is 60 days, because there is a required 60-day waiting period from the date you file your petition for divorce until the date a divorce decree can be finalized. That being said, most divorce cases take longer. Uncontested divorces generally take a few months, while contested divorces often take a year or longer to be finalized due to busy court schedules and complex issues like custody and support disputes.
Do you have to be separated before filing for divorce in TX?

In Texas, you are not required to be separated before filing for divorce. However, one of the grounds for divorce in Texas is “living apart” – if you and your spouse have not cohabited for at least three (3) years, then you could file for divorce based on living apart.
What are the grounds for divorce in Texas?

Texas allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorce. If a Texas couple wants to file for no-fault divorce, then they would do so using the reason of “insupportability”. This simply means that the marriage can no longer be supported. No further reasons need to be given. Additional ways to file for no-fault divorce include: Separation – If the couple has been living apart for 3 or more years, then they can file for a no-fault divorce. Mental Instability – If one spouse has been in a mental hospital for 3 or more years with an unlikely recovery, then the other spouse can file for no-fault divorce. However, Texas also allows for a spouse to file for fault-based divorce. The primary grounds include: Cruelty Adultery Felony Abandonment

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Hear From Our Happy Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, PLLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

"Lovely to Have Them in my Corner"
If I had to choose just one word to describe my experience with Mr. Ritchie it would be, marvelous. It was a very lovely experience to have had him in my corner.

- Traci M.
"A Great Experience"
Derek Ritchie is a professional and very reliable attorney. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders once he took on my case. It was a great feeling to know that I had him on my side.

- Diana C.
"Treats Us Like Family"
Derek is a great attorney! Not only is he knowledgeable and reliable, but he takes care of his clients like they’re his family. Would highly recommend his services!

- Joyce P.
"Professional with Integrity"
Mr. Ritchie is a professional with integrity, ethics and a competitive drive to win! So grateful for his counsel. Hope I never need him for any criminal defense, but he works hard and knows family law. Next is some estate planning! Thanks, Derek Ritchie!

- Nadia N.
"Everyone Was Compassionate"
My experience was a great one, from the moment I picked up that phone to having a next-day free consultation!. They were so helpful, respectful, and professional throughout the whole thing!

- Ashley C.
"I Couldn't Have Asked for Better Representation"
The whole firm was very caring and empathetic towards the situation and I couldn’t have asked for better legal representation!

- Former Client
"All-Around Amazing!"
They are so excellent and treat you like family. Very professional, efficient, listen to you and they take it from there. Just all-around amazing!

- Jenna B.
"Highly Recommended"
Highly recommended! Very responsive & handled our legal situation in a timely, professional, & caring manner.

- Former Client
"I Would Highly Recommend This Practice"
He listens to you, returns your calls, knows who to call in Bexar County, does what he says promptly, and on top of that, both he and his office manager Vanessa are SUPER friendly and empathetic.

- John W.

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What Sets Us Apart?

Work Directly With Your Attorneys

Derek and his team will work directly with you through every step of your case. It’s important to us that your case receives highly personalized attention. You instilled your trust in us and we will work to meet and exceed your expectations.
We Fight to Win

We’re competitive by nature and have a versatile legal style. We always seek an amicable outcome among different parties. We’re also prepared and ready to take your case to trial.
Complimentary Consultations

We strive to create an environment where you feel safe and protected. We recommend starting with a complimentary consultation to review your case together. Evening and weekend consultations are available by appointment only.