Divorce can leave you wondering where you will live, how bills will get paid and when you will spend time with your children before the case ends. In Texas, temporary orders can help keep your family life and finances stable, protect property and address immediate needs while the divorce case is ongoing. If you and your spouse cannot agree on temporary arrangements, the court may need to decide them at a hearing.
Here are five common issues they may cover:
1. Who stays in the family home
A temporary order may allow one spouse to live in the family home while the divorce proceeds. The court may also address who can use other property during this period.
2. Who pays bills and expenses
The court may assign responsibility for household expenses, debts and other financial obligations. These arrangements can help clarify who pays certain costs while the case remains unresolved.
3. Whether temporary spousal support applies
Depending on your circumstances, the court may order temporary spousal support to help cover living expenses during the divorce process. Texas law also allows courts to address financial support and property.
4. Child custody and support arrangements
If you have children, the court may address parenting time, child support and who makes certain medical, educational or other decisions for them. State law refers to these custody-related matters as conservatorship and possession.
5. Restrictions involving property
The court may restrict certain actions involving marital property, such as selling, transferring or giving away assets. These measures can help preserve property until the court makes a final division.
Prepare for temporary orders
Temporary orders can affect where you live, what you pay and how you share responsibilities for your children while your divorce is pending. Gather recent income records, monthly bills, account statements and information about your children’s schedules so you understand the issues that may need attention. Because court procedures can differ, a family law attorney can help you understand which rules apply and prepare for an agreement or hearing.