Can I Get a Divorce in Texas Without a Lawyer?

 Posted on May 27, 2025 in Divorce

In Texas, you have the right to a DIY divorce. However, the legal process can be confusing and emotionally draining. While the prospect of saving money may appeal to you, understanding the steps of the divorce process and ensuring you meet the legal requirements can be overwhelming, even for an uncontested, seemingly straightforward divorce. If you have questions about divorcing in Texas and how legal counsel could benefit your case, an experienced Denton County, TX divorce attorney can help.

Do You Have To Have a Lawyer To Get a Divorce in Texas?

In short, no, you do not have to hire a legal representative to get a divorce in Texas. A self-represented divorce, also known as a pro se divorce, may work if your financial situation is simple and you agree on the terms of the divorce. Additionally, if no children are involved, the process can be much easier. However, divorces are not commonly that straightforward. Often, couples disagree on central issues, such as property and debt division or custody and support. 

When Should You Hire a Lawyer for a Texas Divorce?

If any of the following pertain to your situation, you should seriously consider hiring an attorney to represent you in the divorce:

• Your spouse hired an attorney, which would leave you at a disadvantage if you represent yourself.

• You have shared minor children.

• You disagree when discussing the terms of custody or child support.

• Your relationship has a history of domestic violence, power imbalance, or abuse.

• You have a complicated financial situation, especially if you have been married for a long time and accumulated a significant number of assets.

Texas is a community property state, which means that you are entitled to half of all marital property. Without an attorney, you risk being underrepresented in the final divorce decree and potentially losing half the value of assets that should have been characterized as separate property based on the nuanced Texas property division laws.

What Are the Risks of Getting a Divorce Without an Attorney in Texas?

In addition to the possibility of agreeing to an unfair division of debts and assets, you risk making legal mistakes that could impact you long after the divorce is finalized. For example, if you and your spouse have substantial debt, such as credit cards, bank loans, or mortgages, you could end up with an agreement that leaves you with an unfair debt burden or risks to your credit history. If you have a child, you may not fully understand the implications of how the court distributes decision-making responsibilities and visitation, and that could lead to more legal disputes down the road. To ensure that you are well-informed throughout the divorce process, consider hiring a knowledgeable attorney you can trust.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With a Frisco, TX Divorce Attorney

Every divorce is unique and requires careful evaluation to determine how Texas laws apply. If you have questions about the divorce process, working with experienced Collin County, TX divorce lawyers is the best way to protect your rights and interests. At The Law Office of Linda Risinger, we have been practicing family law in Texas for over 30 years, and our priority is to focus on the best possible results while keeping cost-effectiveness in mind. Call 972-294-6533 to schedule a free consultation today.