Johnna Teal & Associates
Texas Family Law Firm
"I will definitely recommend you if anyone ever asks." - M. Jackson
"I just wanted to say thank you so much for today. You were great! Everybody is so happy with the decision today. You are awesome! "- BV
"Your Family Law Attorney"
"You and your staff are wonderful people and you make me feel like family. Therefore, I wanted to tell you some good news. You guys really gave me confidence in myself so I started a diet through a weight management class. One month today, I have lost 14 lbs. I feel so good" -A. Issac
"First, I know that you're on my team and I knew I was in good legal hands when I walked in your office. I would hate to think of where things would be without your help and you believing that charges launched against me were false. Thank you! Divorce is tough! I am happy with your level of service" - J. Murray
"Your Family Law Attorney"
"YOUR SO FREAKIN AWESOME!!!!! I can't thank you enough." - D. Taylor
Divorce Q & A
Divorce FAQ
At Johnna Teal & Associates, we are here to answer any questions you have about your divorce or family law concerns. To sit down with Attorney Johnna Teal or if you prefer to have a phone consultation to learn more about any of the following questions, contact our offices at (713) 222-8200.
What Do I Have To Show to Get A Divorce?
How Long Will It Take to Get A Divorce?
Should I Consult With An Attorney Before I Move Out Or File For Divorce?
Should I Just Fill The Forms Out Myself?
What Do I Have To Show to Get A Divorce?
Texas is a “no fault state.” In other words, you do not need to state any specific reason why you want a divorce, nor does your spouse have to agree to a divorce.
How Long Will It Take to Get A Divorce?
In Texas there is a "cooling off period" to ensure litigates do not emotionally carry forward with a divorce and regret their decision shorty thereafter. Therefore, once the divorce petition has been filed with the court, you need only wait 60 days if you and your spouse agree on all issues. This can be done through the court's uncontested docket. Even if you and your spouse do not agree to all terms in the beginning, Johnna Teal & Associates has been successful in settling the vast majority of its clients’ cases. Johnna Teal & Associates Law Office commits itself to settling your case if the issues can be settled in your best interests.
If you and your spouse cannot agree on all issues, the only other way to obtain a divorce is through a trial (after mediation). If trial is required because you and your spouse cannot agree, then most cases will remain active for nine months until the final trial date. In highly contested cases, some cases can take as long as 12-18 months or longer. Most trials in divorce cases generally last about four hours or more. In such event, the judge or jury, as applicable, makes all decisions. Additionally, how long it takes to get to trial depends upon the complexity of your case and how backed up the judge's calendar is at the time of your trial date.
Johnna Teal & Associates Law Office is committed to expedite your case and to conclude the proceedings for you as soon as possible so that you can get on with your life.
How Much Will It Cost?
The total fees and costs in divorce proceedings vary depending upon a number of factors. If you and your spouse agree to most or all terms, the fees and costs will be minimal. It is our belief that no matter how simple the divorce, it is always in your best interests to consult with an attorney. This does not mean that you cannot do your divorce yourself. However, many people who do not consult with attorneys may leave out certain very important provisions that can come back to haunt them later on, and cost them a great deal of stress and money in order to re-litigate the dispute that could have been resolved correctly if attorney advise would have been sought earlier on in the process. A little “preventive medicine” may save you a lot of headaches in the future. Johnna Teal & Associates Law Office is committed to providing its clients with quality representation at an affordable cost. To find out more about our flat fee fee structure, please contact our office.
Should I Consult With An Attorney Before I Move Out Or File For Divorce?
If possible, it is always in your best interests to consult with a family law attorney before you move out of your residence or file for divorce, even if you decide to represent yourself. What happens early on in a case may turn out to be very important. Each case is different, and many of our clients have special circumstances. Again, some “preventive medicine” may save you a lot of heartache and headaches in the future.
Should I Just Fill The Forms Out Myself?
In many cases, especially ones that are uncontested, you may be able to represent yourself. When children are involved, the likelihood of being able to prepare your own forms is almost impossible. The Harris County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County and Brazoria County Law Libraries are good locations to find resources to assist you in the preparation of your own legal forms and orders.
As we have stated, we highly recommend that you at least consult with an attorney. A little bit of preventive medicine may save you a lot of money, heartache and headaches. In many cases, Johnna Teal & Associates Law Offices provides consult services without the necessity of formally retaining the firm and without having to pay a deposit or retainer fee.
For answers to these or any other family law or divorce questions, contact Johnna Teal & Associates Law Office for an initial consultation at (713) 222-8200.
Houston Office:
Johnna Teal & Associates
4100 Milam Street
Houston, Texas 77006
Phone: (713) 222.8200