Alternatives to Traditional Divorce in Austin

Divorce is not the only option if you and your spouse are contemplating a breakup. You may need some time apart but are not yet sure the marriage should end, or you are not ready for the expense and emotional toll a divorce imposes. Although Texas does not recognize legal separations, you can still draft temporary separation agreements.

You and your spouse can also attend mediation to resolve your differences, participate in a collaborative divorce similar to mediation, or file for an uncontested divorce to avoid a stressful trial. Through all these alternatives to traditional divorce in Austin, your divorce attorney can provide the necessary documents and advocacy so you are confident with your choice.

How Is Separation Beneficial and What Does It Entail?

A separation gives you and your spouse a chance to live apart to determine if a traditional divorce is right for you or if your marital issues can be resolved and you can reconcile. Your attorney can formalize temporary agreements that follow guidelines similar to a divorce, such as custody arrangements for the children and temporary spousal support.

To avoid fighting about property ownership, we can draft a partition and exchange agreement following Texas community property laws that names which spouse has rights to specific property from the date you both sign it and into the future until you divorce or reconcile. To explore your alternatives, contact a family law attorney in Austin and learn how we leverage technology to help you build a workable agreement before pursuing a traditional divorce.

Mediation and Collaborative Divorces

Mediation is a process that involves a professional mediator who assists you and your spouse by facilitating respectful conversations and suggesting solutions so you can resolve your differences, either to avoid divorcing or avoid a trial if you choose to divorce. Your mediator can draft an agreement to add to your family court filings outlining the agreed-upon terms.

A collaborative divorce is similar to mediation, but it involves your respective divorce attorneys and accountants—including forensic accountants, asset appraisers, mental health professionals, and child therapists—who can craft a balanced and fair outcome that is best for the family. If you are looking for options to traditional divorce in Austin, our attorneys are innovators who think outside the box.

Uncontested Divorce

If you and your spouse are divorcing and cannot resolve crucial issues, such as property division, child custody, and spousal maintenance, chances are arguments will escalate, and your divorce will go to trial, which can be costly and time-consuming. This is called a contested divorce, and often parties act out of spite or greed, refusing to budge and move on.

You can seek an uncontested divorce if you maintain a civil relationship with your estranged spouse, seek help with any sticking points, and file with all issues resolved. This alternative to a contested divorce in Austin is less expensive, less stressful, and less time-consuming. Our attorneys are ready to advocate for you and help you decide which option for separation or reconciliation is right for you.

Learn Which Divorce Alternative Might be Right for You By Calling Our Austin Lawyers

It takes a thoughtful, experienced lawyer to understand that divorce is not about winning and losing but a collaborative effort to find the best solution for your family. You and your needs are unique, and so are we. We look for bold solutions and will discuss with you the myriad ways you can handle your uncoupling and avoid common hurt feelings and contention.

If you are seeking alternatives to traditional divorce in Austin, you will find our team approachable, welcoming, and ready to work toward your goals. We have the resources and technological advantage that can help make the process smoother for you. Call us today to get started.