Going through a divorce in Denton County is one of the most difficult experiences you’ll face. The decisions made during this time will shape your financial future, your relationship with your children, and your path forward. At Varghese Summersett, our Denton divorce lawyers bring decades of combined litigation and negotiation experience to protect what matters most to you.
We’ve helped hundreds of Denton County families navigate divorce, child custody disputes, and complex property division. Our attorneys understand the local courts, know the judges, and have built a reputation for achieving results – whether through strategic negotiation or aggressive courtroom advocacy.

Why Hire a Denton Divorce Lawyer from Varghese Summersett?
Not all divorce attorneys in Denton are the same. When your family’s future is on the line, you need a law firm with the resources, experience, and track record to handle even the most contentious cases.
Local Court Experience: Our divorce lawyers appear regularly in Denton County family courts. We know the procedures, the judges’ preferences, and how to position your case for the best possible outcome.
Proven Results: With over 1,100 five-star reviews, our firm has earned a reputation for client-focused representation. We’ve successfully handled everything from amicable uncontested divorces to multi-million dollar contested cases involving business valuations and custody battles.
Full-Service Representation: Beyond legal counsel, we connect clients with financial advisors, custody evaluators, and mental health professionals to ensure you have comprehensive support throughout the process.
Trial-Ready Advocacy: While we resolve most cases through negotiation, opposing counsel knows we’re prepared to go to trial if necessary. This reputation often motivates favorable settlements.
Divorce and Family Law Services in Denton County
Our Denton family law attorneys handle every aspect of divorce and family law matters. Whatever challenges you’re facing, we have the experience to help.
Contested and Uncontested Divorce in Denton
Whether you and your spouse agree on everything or can’t agree on anything, our Denton divorce attorneys guide you through the process efficiently. For contested divorces, we build compelling cases that protect your interests in court. For uncontested divorces, we ensure the paperwork is done correctly and the agreement protects your rights.
High-Net-Worth Divorce
Divorces involving significant assets require attorneys who understand complex financial matters. Our team handles cases involving business ownership, professional practices, stock options, retirement accounts, real estate portfolios, and international assets. We work with forensic accountants and business valuation experts to ensure accurate asset division.
Child Custody and Conservatorship
Texas law uses the term “conservatorship” rather than custody. Our Denton child custody lawyers fight to protect your parental rights and your children’s best interests. We handle initial custody determinations, modifications, enforcement actions, and relocation cases.
Child Support
Texas has specific guidelines for calculating child support, but many factors can affect the final amount. Our attorneys ensure support calculations account for all relevant income sources and expenses, and we handle modifications when circumstances change.
Property Division
Texas is a community property state, which means assets acquired during marriage are generally divided equitably. Our Denton property division lawyers protect your separate property, identify hidden assets, and fight for a fair distribution of the marital estate.
Spousal Support and Alimony
Texas courts can award spousal maintenance in certain circumstances. We help clients understand their eligibility and advocate for appropriate support arrangements, whether you’re seeking support or defending against an excessive request.
Collaborative Divorce in Denton
For couples who want to avoid the courtroom, our certified collaborative divorce attorneys offer an alternative. This structured process allows you and your spouse to negotiate directly with professional guidance, often resulting in faster, less expensive resolutions.
Modifications and Enforcement
Life changes. When your circumstances shift significantly, you may need to modify existing custody, visitation, or support orders. And when your ex-spouse violates court orders, we take swift action to enforce compliance.
Understanding the Divorce Process in Denton County
If you’re considering divorce in Denton, understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and set realistic expectations.
Filing for Divorce
One spouse must file an Original Petition for Divorce with the Denton County District Clerk. Texas requires at least one spouse to have lived in the state for six months and in Denton County for 90 days before filing.
Waiting Period
Texas law mandates a 60-day waiting period between filing and finalizing a divorce. This period allows for negotiation and, in some cases, reconciliation.
Temporary Orders
During the divorce process, the court can issue temporary orders regarding child custody, child support, spousal support, and property use. These orders maintain stability while the divorce is pending.
Discovery
In contested cases, both sides exchange financial information and other relevant documents through a process called discovery. This ensures both parties have complete information before negotiating or going to trial.
Negotiation or Trial
Most Denton divorce cases settle through negotiation or mediation. When settlement isn’t possible, our trial attorneys present your case before a Denton County district judge.
Final Decree
Once all issues are resolved, the court issues a Final Decree of Divorce that officially ends the marriage and outlines the terms of the settlement.
Denton County Family Courts
Denton County has multiple district courts that handle family law matters. Knowing which court your case is assigned to and understanding the judge’s tendencies can significantly impact case strategy. Here’s a directory of Denton County family courts:
| Court | Judge | Floor | Phone | Court Administrator | Court Reporter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16th District Court | Hon. Sherry Shipman | 3rd Floor | 940-349-2310 | Joan Vallee | Michael Navarro |
| 158th District Court | Hon. Steve Burgess | 3rd Floor | 940-349-2320 | Rebecca Hobon | Christi Ritz |
| 211th District Court | Hon. Brody Shanklin | 4th Floor | 940-349-2330 | Larry Harbour | LaTresta Ginyard |
| 362nd District Court | Hon. Bruce McFarling | 3rd Floor | 940-349-2340 | Andrew Hartwell | Crystal Butler |
| 367th District Court | Hon. Brent Hill | 3rd Floor | 940-349-2350 | Debra Jones | Robin Callaway-Newton |
| 393rd District Court | Hon. Karen Alexander | 4th Floor | 940-349-2360 | Baylee Latchaw | Winnie Pauly |
| 431st District Court | Hon. Jim Johnson | 4th Floor | 940-349-4370 | Chrissy Kirkpatrick | — |
| 442nd District Court | Hon. Tiffany Haertling | 4th Floor | 940-349-4380 | Ali Hayslip | Deana Scobee |
| 462nd District Court | Hon. Lee Ann Breading | 4th Floor | 940-349-2110 | Stacy Fruth | Kimberly Tinsley |
| 467th District Court | Hon. Derbha Jones | 2nd Floor | 940-349-4390 | Kendra Piggot | Jennifer Ryan |
| 477th District Court | Hon. Michael Dickens | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| 481st District Court | Hon. Crystal Levonius | 4th Floor | 940-349-2270 | Laurie DiPierro | Kristin Anderson |
| Child Support Court (Title IV-D) | Hon. Cherami Jenkins | 2nd Floor, Suite 2203 | 817-884-3298 | Lorraine M. Robinson | — |
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Denton County
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Denton?
The cost of a Denton divorce lawyer depends on the complexity of your case. Uncontested divorces with no children and minimal assets cost less than contested cases involving custody disputes and significant property. At Varghese Summersett, we provide transparent fee structures during your initial consultation so you understand the investment required.
How long does a divorce take in Denton County?
Texas requires a minimum 60-day waiting period, but most divorces take longer. Uncontested divorces can finalize in 60-90 days. Contested divorces involving custody disputes or complex property division may take six months to a year or more.
What are grounds for divorce in Texas?
Texas allows both no-fault and fault-based divorce. No-fault divorce is based on “insupportability” – meaning the marriage has become insupportable due to conflict. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, abandonment, felony conviction, and living apart for at least three years.
How is property divided in a Denton County divorce?
Texas is a community property state. Property acquired during the marriage is generally considered community property and subject to “just and right” division – not necessarily 50/50. Separate property (owned before marriage, inherited, or received as a gift) typically remains with the original owner.
How is child custody determined in Denton?
Denton County family courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining conservatorship. Factors include each parent’s relationship with the child, living situations, work schedules, and any history of family violence or substance abuse. Courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents significant time with their children.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Denton?
While you can legally file for divorce without an attorney, even “simple” divorces involve legal documents that affect your rights for years to come. An experienced Denton divorce attorney ensures your agreement protects your interests and that all paperwork is properly filed.
Areas We Serve in Denton County
Our Denton divorce lawyers represent clients throughout Denton County, including Denton, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Frisco, Little Elm, The Colony, Corinth, Highland Village, Lake Dallas, Sanger, Aubrey, Pilot Point, Krum, Argyle, and Ponder.
Schedule a Consultation with a Denton Divorce Lawyer
When you’re facing divorce in Denton County, you need more than legal advice – you need a strategic partner who will protect your interests and guide you toward the best possible outcome. Our Denton divorce attorneys combine aggressive advocacy with compassionate client service to help families through some of life’s most difficult transitions.
Contact Varghese Summersett today to schedule a consultation with an experienced Denton divorce lawyer. We’ll evaluate your situation, explain your options, and develop a strategy tailored to your goals.


