Divorce Representation in Southlake: Protect Your Rights

A Southlake Divorce Attorney with 20+ Years of Family Law Experience

Divorce touches nearly every part of a person’s life: finances, property, children, and plans for the future. Many proceedings require immediate attention, particularly when temporary orders for custody, support, or property preservation are at stake. Michelle Purvis has practiced family law for more than 20 years, serving clients in Southlake and throughout Tarrant County. She handles each case with zealous advocacy, diligent preparation, and genuine compassion. Clients work directly with Michelle from the first consultation through final resolution. There are no handoffs to junior associates and no gaps in communication.

If you’re filing for divorce, seek representation from Michelle Purvis Law. Call (817) 809-8199 for a consultation.

Contested & Uncontested Divorce in Texas

Not every divorce follows the same path. In an uncontested case, spouses agree on the core issues: property division, conservatorship of children, child support, and spousal maintenance. In a contested case, one or more of those issues must be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or a final trial before a Tarrant County family district court judge. Texas law imposes a minimum 60-day waiting period after the Original Petition for Divorce is filed before any divorce can be finalized, regardless of whether the parties agree.

Michelle represents clients in uncontested divorces and in highly contested cases. When settlement is achievable, she focuses on drafting clear, enforceable settlement agreements and final decrees that hold up after the case closes. When agreement isn’t possible, she’s prepared to present a strong case at trial. Clients receive a realistic assessment of their situation and a strategic plan built around their specific goals.

Grounds for Divorce in Texas: Fault vs. No-Fault

Texas gives spouses a choice between no-fault and fault-based divorce. Most cases are filed on no-fault grounds under “insupportability,” meaning the marriage can no longer continue due to a discord or conflict of personalities between the spouses. No evidence of wrongdoing is required, and for many clients, the no-fault path is simpler and less adversarial.

Fault-based grounds are available when the facts support them and when pursuing fault serves the client’s interests. Because Texas is a community property state, courts divide marital assets under a “just and right” standard. Proven fault can influence how that division is weighted. Choosing between fault and no-fault grounds requires weighing the available evidence against the likely impact on property division and the overall cost of litigation.

Fault-based grounds available under Texas law include:

• Cruelty
• Adultery
• Felony conviction
• Abandonment (for at least one year)

Texas law also recognizes additional no-fault grounds beyond insupportability: living apart without cohabitation for at least three years, and confinement in a mental hospital for at least three years when recovery is unlikely.

Don’t hesitate to contact Michelle Purvis Law to discuss your specific situation.