Grapevine, TX High Conflict Divorce Lawyers

Experienced Attorneys for High Conflict Divorces in Grapevine

When a relationship turns bitter, the resulting divorce may involve many contested issues ranging from the division of property to the allocation of custody. If not handled with the utmost care, a high conflict divorce can end up costing you thousands upon thousands of dollars in legal fees. To resolve the conflict as efficiently as possible, consider reaching out to a Grapevine, TX divorce lawyer.

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we meet our clients' needs with an approachable attitude and aggressive advocacy in court. We know how to work through high conflict divorces, and our team is well-versed in Texas law. Attorney Lauren Powell has over two decades of legal experience, and when time permits, she serves as an adjunct professor at the University of North Texas School of Law.

Fault-Based Divorces in Texas

Texas allows both no-fault and fault-based divorces. While many couples choose the no-fault route—typically citing "insupportability" due to conflict that cannot be resolved—others pursue a fault-based divorce. Fault grounds can include adultery, cruelty, abandonment, or a felony conviction. Choosing to file based on fault may have serious implications for the outcome of the case. If one spouse is found to be at fault, the court may award a greater share of the marital property to the other spouse. This can also influence spousal support decisions and even child custody, depending on the nature of the misconduct.

However, pursuing a fault-based divorce generally means the process will be more contentious and time-consuming. The accusing spouse must present evidence of the other party's misconduct, which can lead to court battles, extensive discovery, and emotional strain. For this reason, fault-based divorces are typically more difficult to resolve than no-fault divorces and may be more expensive.

Reasons for Contested Divorces

High conflict or "contested" divorces arise when spouses cannot agree on the major issues that must be resolved before the marriage can be legally ended. The most common points of disagreement include the division of marital property, allocation of debts, child custody and visitation arrangements, and spousal maintenance.

Divorces with particularly complex marital estates may involve disputes over valuing assets or claims of dissipation, which can lead to longer courtroom proceedings. Additionally, disputes over child-related matters are especially sensitive and can lead to prolonged legal battles. In these cases, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to determine what is in the child's best interests, adding another layer of complexity to the proceedings.

How Are Contested Divorces Resolved?

While some contested divorces proceed all the way to trial, most are resolved through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation. These approaches allow spouses to maintain more control over the outcome and can reduce the emotional and financial toll of litigation. In mediation, a neutral third party helps the spouses reach mutually acceptable terms, which can then be finalized by the court.

If these efforts fail, the case may proceed to trial. There, a judge will hear evidence and make decisions about property division, custody, and support. Litigation can be unpredictable and stressful, but in some high-conflict cases, it may be the only path to resolution. As an experienced courtroom litigator, Attorney Lauren Powell can stand up for your rights during a highly contested divorce, seeking the best outcome during a trial.

Contact a Grapevine, Texas High Conflict Divorce Attorney

A high conflict divorce can be a major ordeal, but having a dedicated attorney at your side can help to ease the burden of stress. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we provide sound advice and creative solutions to difficult family law issues. To schedule a free virtual consultation, call our offices at 972-584-9382 or contact our Grapevine, TX high conflict divorce lawyers.