If you’re like many people contemplating divorce right now, one of the key questions on your mind might be, “can I get divorced during the pandemic?” The short answer is yes, you can. With many married couples facing elevated stress and frustrations from our “new normal,” you may have decided you no longer can be married to your partner. For many people, the combination of being at home more often with a spouse has led to the discovery that they cannot bare to be married to their spouse any longer.
If this is you, you understandably might have questions such as, “is the process different than before,” or “are the courts even open to grant my divorce?” First and foremost, we highly encourage you to speak with a divorce attorney who can shed light on the matter and answer all of your questions.
While the courthouse in Bexar County is currently closed to in-person hearings at this time, you are still able to file for divorce and move forward as normal. If hearings are necessary, they are generally conducted virtually over video conference platforms, such as Zoom.
With that being said, here are some things to consider and how you can move forward with your divorce during this unprecedented time.
Getting Divorced During the Pandemic
If you and your spouse are in agreement to divorce, then your divorce will likely be uncontested and may not require a court hearing. Uncontested divorces are generally less costly and amicable than when they are contested. This is because contested divorces can take much more time and resources when trying to reach agreements. When children are involved, this almost always makes matters a bit more complex.
Mediation and court costs are also key contributors to driving up the cost of any divorce. So when divorces are uncontested, it usually works out much better for everyone financially and emotionally. This is true, even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Though it worth mentioning that a divorce attorney cannot represent both parties in a divorce. That is to say, he or she cannot represent both spouses in the divorce. Rather, an attorney can only represent one spouse legally because of conflicts of interest. With that being said, the attorney is going to work in a manner that is in the best interest of their client.
But this shouldn’t scare you. If your spouse has already hired an attorney, it is certainly in your best interest to seek legal counsel as well. This ensures that no one is taken advantage of and that you have an attorney looking out for your interests as well.
Has the Time Come for You to Divorce?
If you feel that you have reached the point of divorce, then you can still proceed with it. We understand you that you may be ready to divorce, but are concerned whether the pandemic will have any effects on you being able to. Rest assured, it does not. Getting divorced during the Covid-19 pandemic still follows the same procedures as before.
If you are ready to take the next step, we are here for you. Contact us today to speak with someone about your specific needs and let us help you make the first step toward a better tomorrow.