Filing for divorce can be one of the most challenging life events. At Karen Torres Law, we serve as your steadfast advocate, providing strategic counsel for individuals navigating the dissolution of their marriage in Houston. As an experienced Texas Divorce Attorney, Karen Torres handles all aspects of your case, from uncontested divorces to highly contested, complex marital estates involving significant assets, business valuations, and debt division. Our priority is to protect your financial future and your relationship with your children.
Call us now at (713) 576-0400 to get started with a free, confidential review of your family’s case.
Why Choose Karen Torres Law for Divorce
Houston’s economy is unique, often involving complex assets like energy sector stock options, closely-held businesses, and international holdings. You need a Houston Marital Dissolution Lawyer who understands the intricacies of Texas Community Property Law and the process of Property Division Houston. Karen Torres is known for her aggressive approach in discovery, ensuring all marital property and debt are accurately identified and characterized for a just and right division. We offer tailored representation, whether through negotiated settlement or courtroom litigation.
Services We Provide
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Filing and navigating contested and uncontested divorce petitions.
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Complex Property Division and characterization of separate vs. community property.
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Valuation and division of business interests, stock options, and retirement accounts (QDROs).
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Litigating or settling spousal maintenance (alimony) and contractual alimony.
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Temporary Orders hearings to establish immediate custody, support, and financial management.
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Divorce cases involving family violence, protective orders, or substance abuse.
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Drafting comprehensive final decrees of divorce.
How We Help You
We begin with a strategic case assessment, outlining the most efficient path to resolution. For complex cases, we partner with forensic accountants, financial experts, and real estate appraisers to accurately value and trace assets. We guide you through mandatory mediation, preparing you to negotiate from a position of strength. If a settlement is not possible, Karen Torres will provide relentless representation in court, advocating for your fair share of the marital estate and protecting your rights as a parent.
Why Divorce Matters in Houston
Harris County has a six-month waiting period for a divorce decree to be granted, but the legal process can take much longer, especially when assets or children are involved. The Houston market has unique property division challenges due to high-value executive compensation and the prevalence of family-owned businesses. A misstep in tracing Separate Property or valuing a business can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. Local expertise in the 300+ Family District Courts is non-negotiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long does a divorce take in Texas? Texas law requires a minimum of 60 days from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized. However, complex or contested cases, especially those with child custody or complex property division, can easily take 6 months to over a year.
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Is Texas a 50/50 property state? Texas is a Community Property state. Community property is subject to a “just and fair” division, which most often results in a 50/50 split. Property owned before the marriage, or acquired during the marriage by gift or inheritance, is Separate Property and is not subject to division.
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Do I have to go to court for a divorce? Not necessarily. The vast majority of Texas divorce cases are resolved through mediation, a negotiation process outside of court. Only if mediation fails and there are unresolved issues will your case proceed to a final trial.
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What are Temporary Orders, and why are they important? Temporary Orders are court orders issued early in the case that govern the parties while the divorce is pending. They address critical issues like who stays in the marital home, temporary possession of the children, temporary child support, and payment of bills.
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Can I receive Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)? Texas law is very strict regarding spousal maintenance. You must generally meet certain statutory requirements, such as being married for at least 10 years and lacking the ability to earn sufficient income to meet your minimum reasonable needs, unless there are findings of family violence.
Client Testimonials
“My divorce involved the valuation of my husband’s business, which was extremely complex. Karen brought in the right financial experts and fought for a fair property division that protected my retirement.” – Susan R.
“After an incredibly stressful and contested divorce filing, Karen’s steady hand in mediation resulted in a full settlement. She protected my separate property and secured the custody terms I wanted.” – Jeffrey T.
“Karen Torres Law was highly professional and compassionate. They handled all the Temporary Orders quickly, allowing me to secure my financial standing and focus on my children during the process.” – Monica V.
