Divorce is part legal process, part life reboot, and both can feel overwhelming. In San Antonio, the rules are Texas‑specific, the timelines are real, and small choices early on can shape the outcome in a big way. With a seasoned San Antonio Divorce Attorney from Lishman Law guiding each step, people typically find clarity faster, reduce stress, and make smarter, future‑proof decisions. This guide breaks down the divorce process in Bexar County and beyond, from filing and temporary orders to property division, child custody, and spousal support, while also flagging how 2025 updates to family law may influence results. It’s practical, plain‑English context for anyone ready to move from uncertainty to a plan.
Key steps in the San Antonio divorce process explained
A Texas divorce follows a predictable path, even if the details are unique to each family. In San Antonio (Bexar County), the journey usually looks like this:
- Confirm residency and grounds: One spouse must have lived in Texas for at least six months and in the county for at least 90 days before filing. Most filings cite “insupportability” (no‑fault), though fault grounds can still matter later for property division.
- File the Original Petition for Divorce: This starts the case and triggers local standing orders, where applicable, to maintain the status quo on finances and parenting.
- Service and response: The other spouse is served and typically has about 20 days plus the following Monday to answer. Waivers and alternative service methods may be used in specific situations.
- Temporary orders: Courts can set short‑term rules on parenting time, use of the home, support, and bill payments. These orders stabilize life while the case moves forward.
- Disclosures and discovery: Texas requires early financial disclosures: additional discovery (bank statements, appraisals, business records) helps clarify what exists and what it’s worth.
- Negotiation and mediation: Most San Antonio judges expect good‑faith mediation before trial. Many cases settle here with a mediated settlement agreement (MSA) that’s generally binding.
- Final hearing or trial: Unresolved issues go to a judge (or sometimes a jury on limited questions). A Final Decree of Divorce formalizes property division, conservatorship, possession schedules, child support, and any maintenance.
There’s a mandatory waiting period, at least 60 days from filing to finalize, though safety‑related exceptions exist. An experienced San Antonio Divorce Attorney at Lishman Law can tailor the timeline, sequence disclosures, and position temporary orders so the final outcome aligns with long‑term goals.