San Antonio Divorce Lawyer

The Residency Requirement

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

Bexar County courts may require proof of residency, such as utility bills or leases, so collect these documents early to prevent delays. The courthouse at the Paul Elizondo Tower in downtown San Antonio manages divorce cases for the entire county, offering one central location for filings, hearings, and document reviews.

Key Issues in a Divorce

Several important issues must be resolved in a divorce, including property and asset division, alimony, child support, and child custody. If you and your spouse cannot agree, these matters may become contested and require court intervention. Spouses who agree on all terms can pursue an uncontested divorce, which generally requires less time and expense.

When children are involved, Texas law directs courts to focus on each parent’s ability to maintain a stable and supportive home. Judges in San Antonio may look at local factors, including access to schools or health care, when developing parenting arrangements. Complicated property holdings and business interests may require more documentation and strategic negotiation, particularly in high-asset cases in Bexar County.

A judge always evaluates the child’s best interests in custody and child support matters.

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

In Texas, community property law means all marital property will be divided equally unless the parties can show a reason for a different outcome.

Courts only grant alimony in specific circumstances. They may look at the duration of the marriage, whether one spouse served as a homemaker, and the earning potential of the party seeking support.

The Impact of Local Bexar County Procedures on Divorce Timeline

Divorce timelines in Bexar County may differ from other Texas counties due to court procedures, docket schedules, and required waiting periods. Although Texas law enforces a minimum sixty-day waiting period, high demand in San Antonio courts can push hearings or trial dates further out, particularly when there is a surge in filings. A divorce attorney familiar with Bexar County courts can help manage your expectations and suggest steps to keep your case moving, such as submitting documents proactively and responding quickly to discovery. Understanding local procedures helps ensure a smoother process and reduces unnecessary delays.

Count on Us for Trusted Guidance Every Step of the Way

We strive to resolve divorce cases through mediation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution, but no one should feel pressured to accept less than a fair settlement. Our attorneys in San Antonio recognize that sometimes litigation is necessary. If we believe the courtroom offers a better path for your case, we are fully prepared to advocate for you.

Divorce is a major life event. Having experienced attorneys by your side in San Antonio offers support through both the emotional and legal challenges. At The Law Office of Derek S. Ritchie, we help you move forward every step of the way.

Our team provides dedicated and compassionate representation to help clients achieve favorable outcomes. We work diligently to protect your interests and pursue the best possible result for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a divorce typically take in San Antonio?

Most divorces in Bexar County take at least sixty days due to Texas’s mandatory waiting period, but complex cases or court backlogs can extend this timeline by several months.

Do I have to appear in court for my divorce?

Many divorces settle without a full trial, especially if both spouses agree on key issues. In Bexar County, you may still need to attend a brief court hearing for the judge to finalize your agreement.

What if my spouse does not want a divorce?

Texas courts allow one spouse to file for divorce even if the other does not agree. The process carries on, but contested divorces may require additional hearings and extended timelines in San Antonio courts.

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