A simple divorce in Texas

Completing a divorce in Texas does not have to be a costly and ugly process.   However, in my experience, that depends more on the parties than on the attorneys. 

I suggest two things to my clients to help avoid a long, drawn out, costly, emotional proceeding.

1. Be prepared: This means getting lots of information together, primarily financial information, and doing it BEFORE you even meet with your attorney the first time.   This includes accounts, retirement accounts, paystubs, tax returns, real estate (including legal descriptions), vehicle info, lists of assets, lists of debts, credit reports, and any and every other item you may consider.   You will undoubtedly forget something up front, but better to have a long list with a few items missing than no list with only general ideas about your property
2. Be realistic: Think long and hard and then write out a wish list of what you want/where you wish to be when the case is completed, including your desires about your property and your children.  Share this with your attorney early on, and be prepared to review and discuss it with him/her.  At that first meeting, you should get a clear idea of what is possible, what is probable, and a roadmap to the end.