Divorce in Texas: It's Not One Path or the Other

Divorce is rarely as black-and-white as many people expect. While many people talk about Texas Divorce as uncontested or contested, most real-world cases fall somewhere in between the extremes of either term. Understanding divorce as a sliding scale of agreement and conflict can help you make smarter decisions and avoid unnecessary stress, time, and expense.

 

Uncontested Divorce: When There’s Broad Agreement

 

An uncontested divorce generally means both spouses are able to agree on many and maybe even all of the major issues involved, such as:

• Division of property and debts

• Child custody and visitation (called conservatorship and possession in Texas)

• Child support and spousal maintenance

When there is full agreement, an uncontested divorce can often move quickly and cost far less than a heavily litigated case. In Texas, these cases may be finalized after the mandatory 60-day waiting period.

 

Important note: Many divorces become less contested, if not completely uncontested, over time—even if they didn’t start that way. Reaching agreement doesn’t mean you rushed or gave up; it often means you found a workable solution.

 

Even when everything seems agreed upon, having a Texas divorce attorney review the final paperwork can help ensure nothing critical is overlooked.

 

Contested Divorce: When Disagreements Remain

 

A contested divorce simply means there is at least one unresolved issue. That might involve:

• Disputes over property division or asset values

• Disagreements about custody or parenting schedules

• Spousal support or alimony concerns

• Fault-based claims, such as adultery or cruelty

Some contested cases are highly complex, but others may involve only one sticking point. Importantly, a divorce can be contested early on and later settle—or partially settle—without ever going to trial.

 

Divorce Exists on a Spectrum

 

Most divorces aren’t fully uncontested or fully contested from start to finish. Instead, they move along a spectrum:

• You may agree on parenting but disagree on finances

• You may need temporary court orders but settle before trial

• You may resolve most issues through mediation

Texas courts often encourage—or require—mediation before trial, precisely because many disputes can be resolved without a judge making the final call.

 

The Role of Mediation and Collaborative Divorce

 

Mediation allows spouses to negotiate with the help of a neutral third party, often reducing conflict, cost, and emotional strain. Collaborative divorce offers another option, where both parties commit to resolving issues outside of court with professional support.

 

At Beal Law Firm, attorneys handle everything from negotiation-focused cases to complex litigation, allowing the legal strategy to evolve as your situation does.

 

What Path Makes Sense for You?

 

Rather than asking, “Is my divorce contested or uncontested?” a better question is:

• How much agreement exists right now?

• What issues still need resolution?

• Are there safety, power-imbalance, or abuse concerns?

• How flexible is each party willing to be?

A board-certified Texas divorce attorney can help you understand where your case falls on the spectrum—and how to move it toward the most efficient resolution possible.

 

Work With a Texas Divorce Attorney Who Adapts With You

 

Beal Law Firm has helped Texans throughout Dallas–Fort Worth, Southlake, and far beyond navigate divorces at every stage of conflict and cooperation. Whether your case starts amicably, becomes contested, or evolves somewhere in between, our attorneys are prepared to guide you toward the best possible outcome.