Bastrop County Family District Court Information
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Bastrop County District Clerk’s Office, 804 Pecan Street, Bastrop, Texas 78602 |
| Contact | (512) 581-7100 |
| Operating Hours | 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday (excluding public holidays) |
| Parking | Arrive early to secure parking as spaces can fill up quickly |
| Security | Be prepared for a brief security screening upon entry |
| Advice | Allow extra time for parking and security to ensure a smooth filing experience |
Eligibility and Bastrop County Requirements
In Bastrop County, to file for divorce, one spouse must have lived in Texas for six months and in the county for 90 days. The no-fault option, claiming the marriage is “irretrievably broken,” is popular because it avoids blame and simplifies proceedings.
The 6-Month Texas Residency and 90-Day County Rule
To file for divorce in Texas, one spouse must have lived in Texas for at least six months and in the filing county for 90 days. If a spouse lives out of state, the divorce can still be filed in Texas if these conditions are met by the filing spouse, ensuring the case is appropriately located.
How to File for Divorce in Bastrop County: Step-by-Step
To file for divorce in Bastrop County, grasp the legal framework and timeline for a smooth transition. Begin by collecting necessary documents and understanding legal requirements. Then proceed to file formally, either in-person with the court clerk or online.
Step 1: Preparing the Original Petition for Divorce
To start the divorce process in Bastrop, obtain the necessary forms from the Bastrop County District Clerk’s office or online. In your Original Petition for Divorce, include names, addresses, marriage date, and indicate whether the grounds for divorce are no-fault or fault-based. Clearly specify requests regarding property division, child custody, support, or alimony. Typically, you will need a Civil Case Information Sheet, which is often required in Texas. If you have minor children, include a Standing Order detailing parental responsibilities and any temporary restraining orders to protect assets or regulate behavior during the divorce. Be sure to check for any local procedural differences. Before filing, carefully review for accuracy and completeness, then file with the district clerk and ensure your spouse is properly served according to Texas laws.
Create your free account to see if you’re eligible to file for online divorce in Texas. Complete all paperwork from the comfort of your home, with no hidden fees.
Step 2: Filing Fees and E-Filing via the District Clerk
In Bastrop, the divorce filing fee is about $350, but confirm the latest rate with the District Clerk’s office. Start the process using the Texas E-Filing system by creating an account on eFileTexas.gov or an approved provider. Upload your completed divorce petition and related documents, then pay the filing fee electronically. You’ll get a confirmation once the District Clerk’s office receives everything.
Step 3: Service of Process and Waivers of Service
Official Notice via Citation formally informs your spouse of the divorce filing by delivering a legal notice, ensuring they can respond. A cooperative spouse might sign a Waiver of Service, which acknowledges receipt of the papers and skips formal service, speeding things up. The waiver needs a notary’s signature and must be returned to the court, filed after the original petition but before any hearings.
Requirements for Parents: The Parent Stabilization Class
In Bastrop County, Texas, parents involved in divorce, custody, or family law cases must attend a four-hour Parent Stabilization Class. This state-approved course educates on the impact of family changes on children and offers support strategies. Completion certificates are filed with the court as proof of compliance. Skipping class?
The 60-Day Waiting Period and Finalizing Your Case in Bastrop County
In Bastrop County, a 60-day waiting period starts once an uncontested divorce petition is filed, allowing time for possible reconciliation. If uncontested, the divorce can be finalized soon after. For contested issues, court-ordered mediation might be required, where a neutral party helps the spouses reach an agreement. If mediation fails, the case heads to trial for a judge’s decision.
Erin Bensen is a relationship expert and a writer known for her articles on love and marriage. Being a paralegal, she also writes about divorce and the procedures around it. Erin regularly contributes to Modern Love Counseling and other divorce blogs, offering practical advice and support. Right now, Erin is working on her personal podcast, where she intends to discuss the complexities of relationships and help couples considering divorce.