What Is a Temporary Orders Hearing in a Texas Divorce?

A temporary orders hearing can address important issues while a divorce case is pending. Our Fort Worth divorce lawyers at the Law Office of Kyle Whitaker can help clients understand what to expect and prepare for the issues that may be decided before the divorce is finalized.

What Are Temporary Orders in a Texas Divorce?

Temporary orders are short-term rules that a Texas judge puts in place while a divorce case is still pending. These orders can tell the spouses:

• Who will live in the family home

• Who will pay certain bills

• How the spouses will use money and property

• How the children will be cared for and when each parent will have access to the children

Temporary orders can help prevent disputes and keep things organized until the divorce is finalized. They are not the final divorce terms and can be changed by the court if circumstances change.

The court can consider evidence presented by the parties when deciding what temporary arrangements are appropriate. Because temporary orders can affect a family’s finances and daily life for months, preparation is important.

How Should You Prepare for a Temporary Orders Hearing?

Preparing for a temporary orders hearing can help you explain your situation clearly and respond to the other spouse’s requests. Gather important financial documents before the hearing. These may include recent pay stubs, bank statements, credit card statements, tax returns, mortgage or rent records, utility bills, insurance information, and records of other regular expenses. 

You should also gather information about marital property and debts. This may include records for bank accounts, vehicles, real estate, retirement accounts, investments, and business interests. 

If the hearing involves children, gather relevant records about their school, medical care, and activities. Keep records that show your involvement in the children’s daily lives. Communications between you and your spouse may also be relevant, particularly if they involve disagreements.

You should also think about the specific temporary orders you want the judge to make. For example, you may want to ask the judge to allow you to stay in the home with the children, particularly if maintaining the children’s current living arrangement is important. 

Clearly explaining why a particular arrangement is necessary can help the judge understand your circumstances and determine what temporary arrangement is appropriate while the divorce is pending.

Finally, review any documents or requests filed by your spouse before the hearing. Knowing what your spouse is asking for can help you prepare a response and identify documents that support your position. Our team can prepare you for what to expect and advocate on your behalf at the temporary orders hearing.

Work With a Trusted Fort Worth Divorce Attorney

A temporary orders hearing can affect your finances, living arrangements, property, and relationship with your children while your divorce is pending. The Law Office of Kyle Whitaker can help you understand the legal process and prepare for the issues that may arise at your hearing. Contact our divorce attorneys in Fort Worth today online or by calling 817-332-7703.