Richardson Divorce Lawyer

Divorce Attorney In Richardson, TX

Choosing to divorce is never an easy decision. When you decide it’s time to hire a divorce lawyer, look for someone with not only experience, but also level-headed, rational advice. Let a Richardson divorce lawyer with the experience and knowledge you need guide you through the chaos. You can have peace of mind knowing that we have been helping clients in the Dallas area with all aspects of divorce since 1999.

Why Choose Us?

Michael P. Granata has spent over 26 years focused solely on family law in the Greater Dallas-Fort Worth area. Having served on the Board of the Dallas Bar Association Family Law Section, Mr. Granata possesses unique awareness and the stature that benefits each client.

The Law Office of Michael P. Granata prides itself on being a small firm. This means your case will not go to an assistant, and information will not get lost. Mr. Granata personally directs every aspect of your matter and works with certified financial analysts and trusted mental health professionals when necessary.

Clients have given Mr. Granata glowing reviews, saying things like, “After witnessing Attorney Granata in action, my family and I have regained our faith in the legal profession. He was gracious, kind, and exceptionally thorough, and his attention to detail was truly reassuring. He did exactly what he said he would do—and more.”

While client testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee a similar outcome, this is just one example of the kind of representation our firm provides.

Requirements to Get Divorced in Richardson, Texas

To get a divorce in Richardson, Texas, there are specific state requirements that must be met. Either the petitioner or respondent must have permanently resided in Texas for six months before filing and been a resident of the county in which the divorce is being filed for at least 90 days. Texas is a no-fault state, so you do not need to prove fault on behalf of your spouse to get divorced.

There are, however, some recognized fault grounds for divorce:

• One spouse committed adultery during the marriage.
• One spouse’s cruel treatment of the other spouse renders cohabitation impossible.
• One spouse was convicted of a felony during the marriage and was in prison for at least one year.
• One spouse abandoned the other and left the family home for at least one year without intent to return.
• Spouses have no cohabitation for 3+ years.

Mr. Granata can inform you of what grounds apply in your situation.

How a Divorce Works in Richardson, TX

The Texas Judicial Branch FY2024 Annual Report shows that over 111,000 of the 288,367 new family law filings were divorce cases. Once you have initiated a divorce case in Richardson, Texas, it will generally proceed as follows:

• One spouse files an Original Petition for Divorce. In Richardson, divorces are filed at the Dallas County Family District Court located at 600 Commerce Street in Dallas.
• Pending completion of the case, the court can make temporary orders for child custody, spousal support, and use of community property.
• Each party conducts discovery by exchanging financial documents. Discovery allows each party to know all of the marital assets and liabilities.
• Granata always attempts to settle cases outside of court. Settling quickly reduces legal fees and the emotional stress on the parties and any children.
• If parties can’t agree, the case will go to trial. Mr. Granata can represent you and prepare thoroughly for the trial.
• The court signs a final decree of divorce, which spells out the terms of the divorce.

Texas also requires a waiting period of 60 days from the time your petition is filed before your divorce can be granted. Contested divorces involving property, custody, or support issues typically take longer.

Richardson Divorce Lawyer You Can Trust

Mr. Granata brings focused, individualized attention to every case he stewards. We’ve achieved favorable outcomes on cases from straightforward dissolutions to highly contested custody cases. We have had experienced judges grant our clients primary physical custody even when the other party requested equal parenting time.

We’ve also had cases where the division of assets was adjusted from a 50/50 split to one that mirrored each party’s contributions to the marital estate. Other results include: award of above-guideline and lowered child support based on true income and parenting times that are customized to each family’s actual schedules.

Please be advised that past performance does not guarantee future results. Each case is determined on its individual merits.

Beyond his clients, Mr. Granata is invested in his community. He runs a daily blog and a Twitter account highlighting Texas family law case law and legislation. He shows daily activity tracking and incorporates changes in Texas family law.

FAQs

How Much Does a Lawyer Cost for a Divorce in Richardson, Texas?

The cost of a Richardson divorce attorney will vary depending on the details of your situation. An uncontested divorce will generally cost less, but if you have contested custody, disagreements over property, or are seeking spousal support, it may cost more. Here at the Law Office of Michael P. Granata, we always try to mediate, if possible, to minimize costs.

What Should I Avoid During a Divorce in Texas?

During a Texas divorce, you should avoid large financial transactions, removing funds from joint accounts, or discussing your case on social media. Do not withhold access to children in violation of court orders, or make unilateral decisions about shared property. Working closely with a Richardson divorce attorney throughout the process helps you avoid costly and preventable missteps.

What Are the Three C’s of Divorce?

Communication, cooperation, and compromise make up the three C’s of divorce. During Texas divorces where children are involved, these components become incredibly important as parents work toward solutions that are in the best interests of their child. When everyone is open-minded, many cases can be settled with mediation.

What Is the Biggest Mistake People Make During a Divorce?

One of the biggest mistakes people make during a divorce is allowing their emotions to guide their legal choices. Making decisions based on emotion, like hiding assets, refusing to compromise, or picking fights, can harm your case. Another mistake is proceeding through your divorce without legal representation. A Richardson divorce attorney can help you think clearly and proceed with confidence.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer Who Will Listen

Going through a divorce in Richardson doesn’t mean you have to handle legal aspects alone. At the Law Office of Michael P. Granata, we provide the honest advice and guidance you need to make wise choices. Beyond Richardson, this firm also services Highland Park, Irving, Garland, Lakewood, and more.

Explore your options today with a boutique family law firm with big-firm results.