Divorce, an undoubtedly challenging and emotional journey, doesn't always have to be a battleground. As a Texas family lawyer, I've seen firsthand the benefits of couples resolving their divorce through agreement rather than letting a court decide. Our SimpleTexasDivorce program is all about helping couples, who have been able to agree about their divorce, get through the process as inexpensively as possible while assuring that they have the assistance of a licensed Texas Family Lawyer throughout.
Here are compelling reasons to consider reaching an agreement in your Texas divorce (or other family law matter):
Control Over the Outcome
When you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce, you maintain control over the decisions that will affect your life, rather than leaving them in the hands of a judge. This includes arrangements regarding children, property division, and financial support.
Reduced Emotional Strain
Court battles can be emotionally taxing and confrontational, heightening stress and resentment. Resolving by agreement can reduce the emotional toll on both parties and any children involved, fostering a more amicable post-divorce relationship.
I often talk with clients about financial savings in their family law matter, but I think “emotional savings” is just as important. Lessening the emotional cost of your divorce, especially when kids are involved, can pay huge physical and mental health dividends during and after the process.
Cost-Effectiveness
Litigation is expensive. Attorney fees, court costs, and the time required for trial preparation can quickly add up. An agreement can significantly reduce these costs, allowing both parties to allocate their resources elsewhere.
Time Efficiency
Court proceedings can be lengthy, with schedules subject to the court’s availability. Agreeing outside of court can expedite the process, allowing both parties to move forward with their lives more quickly.
In addition to Emotional and Financial Savings, time efficiency contributes to the “Opportunity Cost” savings of the divorce.
What about all those things you could be doing instead of spending hours, weeks, months or longer stuck in the divorce process? Those things that you miss out on, which could be business and financial opportunities, but could also include fun, leisure, family and relationship opportunities, are often much more valuable, especially when you are looking back on this time period of your life months or years down the road.
Privacy
Court hearings are public, but agreements reached privately can be kept confidential. This privacy can be especially valuable when sensitive issues or high-profile individuals are involved.
Better Compliance
People are more likely to comply with an agreement they had a hand in crafting. This voluntary compliance reduces future conflicts and the need for legal enforcement actions.
Flexibility
An agreement can be tailored to fit the unique needs of your family. Unlike court orders, which are based on standard legal guidelines, an agreement allows for creative solutions that work best for all involved.
Foundation for Future Cooperation
Especially important for parents, resolving issues amicably sets a positive precedent for future interactions. It shows a commitment to cooperation and respect, essential for effective co-parenting.
Conclusion
While not every divorce can be resolved by agreement, it's worth exploring this option. It’s not about giving up your rights; it’s about finding a mutually acceptable path forward.
As a Texas family lawyer, we developed the SimpleTexasDivorce program to assist clients, who have a family law issue they need resolved and are able to resolve it by agreement. I encourage clients to consider the potential benefits of this approach. After all, the goal is not just to end a marriage, but to begin the next chapter of your lives on the best possible terms.
