Westlake Divorce Lawyer | Varghese Summersett

Our Westlake divorce lawyer can help you end your marriage while protecting your financial interests, your children, and your future. Varghese Summersett’s family law team serves Westlake residents from our nearby Southlake office at 3120 Sabre Drive, Suite 110. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling divorce cases in both Tarrant and Denton County family courts.

Divorce is rarely simple, especially in a community like Westlake where significant assets, business interests, and complex custody arrangements are common. The right attorney makes a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds and resolves.

Which County Will Handle My Westlake Divorce?

Most of Westlake falls within Tarrant County. However, portions of the town north of J.T. Ottinger Road and south of the State Highway 114 to 170 connection are located in Denton County. Where you pay property taxes will tell you which county has jurisdiction over your divorce.

This distinction matters because your case will be filed and heard in the county where you reside. Tarrant County Family Court and Denton County divorce courts operate under the same Texas Family Code, but each has its own judges, procedures, and local rules. Our attorneys regularly practice in both jurisdictions and understand how to navigate each court system effectively.

What Types of Family Law Cases Do You Handle?

Our Westlake family lawyers handle the full range of divorce and family law matters. Whether your situation is straightforward or highly contested, we have the experience and resources to guide you through the process. Our practice areas include:

• Divorce (contested and uncontested)
• Collaborative divorce
• High net worth divorce
• Property division
• Business valuation and division
• Child custody and possession
• Child support
• Spousal maintenance (alimony)
• Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
• Modifications and enforcement of court orders
• Grandparent rights
• Adoption
• Protective orders

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Texas?

Texas law requires a minimum 60-day waiting period from the date you file your Original Petition for Divorce until your divorce can be finalized. Under Texas Family Code Section 6.702, this waiting period is mandatory for most cases.

An uncontested divorce where both spouses agree on all terms can often be completed shortly after the 60-day mark. Contested divorces involving disputes over property division, child custody, or support can take six months to a year or longer. Cases involving significant assets, business interests, or complex custody issues may require additional time for discovery, appraisals, and negotiation.

Considering divorce? Call (817) 203-2220 to schedule a free consultation with a Westlake divorce lawyer.

What Should Westlake Residents Know About Property Division?

Texas is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during marriage generally belong to both spouses equally. However, “equal” does not always mean a 50/50 split. Courts divide property in a manner they deem “just and right,” considering factors like each spouse’s earning capacity, fault in the breakup, and the needs of any children.

In Westlake, where real estate values are high and many residents own businesses or hold executive positions, property division often involves substantial complexity. Common issues include:

• Valuing and dividing family businesses
• Retirement accounts and stock options
• Multiple real estate holdings
• Separate property claims and tracing
• Hidden assets and forensic accounting

Our attorneys work with financial experts, business valuators, and forensic accountants when needed to ensure you receive an accurate picture of the marital estate. Learn more about asset division in Texas divorce.

Why Choose Our Westlake Family Law Team?

Varghese Summersett is a full-service law firm with more than 70 team members across four Texas offices. Our family law division brings the same dedication to excellence that has made our criminal defense practice one of the most respected in the state.

When you work with our Westlake divorce lawyers, you benefit from:

• Attorneys who have practiced in Tarrant and Denton County courts for over two decades
• Experience handling both amicable divorces and high-conflict custody disputes
• Skilled trial attorneys ready to go to court
• A support team of paralegals and case managers who keep your case moving forward
• A convenient Southlake office location just minutes from Westlake

Watch: Our Southlake Family Law Team, Serving Westlake

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce in Westlake

Do I have to go to court for my divorce?

Not necessarily. If you and your spouse reach an agreement on all issues, your divorce can often be finalized with minimal court appearances. Many divorces settle through mediation or negotiation without a trial. However, at least one spouse typically must appear before a judge for the final prove-up hearing.

Can I file for divorce if my spouse won’t agree?

Yes. Texas allows no-fault divorce, meaning you can file based on “insupportability” (irreconcilable differences) even if your spouse objects. Your spouse cannot prevent the divorce from happening, though they can contest terms like property division and custody.

How is child custody decided in Texas?

Texas courts make custody decisions based on the best interest of the child. Factors include each parent’s relationship with the child, the child’s physical and emotional needs, each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, and any history of family violence or substance abuse. Parents who agree on custody arrangements can present their plan to the court for approval.

What if my spouse is hiding assets?

Texas law requires both spouses to fully disclose their assets during divorce proceedings. If you suspect hidden assets, your attorney can use formal discovery tools, subpoenas, and forensic accountants to uncover undisclosed property. Hiding assets can result in severe penalties from the court.

How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Westlake?

Attorney fees vary based on case complexity. Uncontested divorces typically cost less than contested cases requiring extensive negotiation or trial. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss fee structures and provide an honest assessment of what your case may require.

Talk to a Westlake Divorce Lawyer Today

If you’re facing divorce or another family law matter in Westlake, don’t face it alone. Our experienced attorneys are ready to listen to your situation, answer your questions, and help you understand your options. Contact Varghese Summersett today to schedule a consultation.

Call (817) 203-2220 or contact us online to get started.