Hays County Divorce & Family Law
San Marcos Divorce Lawyer
Attorney Jesus R. Lopez has helped San Marcos families through divorce and custody cases for 20 years. You'll get straight answers, a flat fee you know up front, and a real person when you call.
- Free consultation, by phone or in person
- Flat fees and payment plans, with no surprise hourly bills
- 20 years of Texas family law experience
- Se habla español
Divorce and custody help for San Marcos families
Whether you're just starting to think about divorce or you've already been served, the decisions you make early on affect your children, your home and your finances for years. As a San Marcos divorce lawyer, Attorney Lopez explains your options under Texas law in plain language and builds a plan that fits your situation and your budget.
We represent clients in San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, Wimberley and throughout Hays County in contested and uncontested divorces, divorces involving children, and divorces with real estate, retirement accounts or military retirement to divide. Many cases settle through negotiation or mediation, and when one doesn't, we're prepared for the courtroom.
We have represented both custodial and noncustodial parents, including in Texas Attorney General child support cases, and we've helped clients with complex property, including military retirement, real estate, and stock and bond accounts. Our goal is a result that is just and fair under the Texas Family Code.
Why San Marcos clients choose Attorney Jesus R. Lopez
Getting started is simple
- Call or send the formTell us briefly what's going on. Your first consultation is free.
- Get a clear plan and a flat feeWe explain your options under Texas law and quote a flat fee, with a payment plan if you need one.
- We get to workFrom filing to temporary orders to the final decree, you'll always know what's happening and what comes next.
Getting divorced in San Marcos: the basics
Divorces for San Marcos residents are filed with the Hays County District Clerk and heard by the Hays County district courts at the Hays County Government Center on Stagecoach Trail. A few Texas rules apply to every case:
Want the details? Read our guides to filing for divorce in San Marcos, the Texas divorce timeline, and what to do if you've been served. Hays County specifics: filing fees, the Hays County standing order, and our Hays County records search page.
Common questions about divorce in San Marcos
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in San Marcos?
We charge flat fees, so you'll know your cost before we start. The fee depends mainly on whether your divorce is contested and whether children are involved. Call for a free consultation and a quote, and ask about payment plans.
How long does a divorce take in Texas?
Texas requires a 60-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized. Uncontested cases can often finish soon after that. Contested cases take longer, depending on the issues and the court's schedule.
Can I file for divorce in Hays County?
Generally, one spouse must have lived in Texas for six months and in Hays County for 90 days before filing. We'll confirm where you can file during your consultation.
How is custody decided in Texas?
Texas courts decide custody, which Texas law calls conservatorship, based on the best interest of the child. Texas presumes both parents should be joint managing conservators unless there's a reason they shouldn't, such as family violence. We'll explain conservatorship, possession schedules and what the court is likely to consider in your situation.
My spouse already filed. What should I do?
Don't ignore the papers. In Texas, your answer is usually due by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday after 20 days from the date you were served. Missing it can lead to a default judgment. Call us as soon as you're served.
Do I have to go to court?
Many divorces settle by agreement or in mediation, and an uncontested divorce may only require a short final hearing. If your case can't be resolved, we'll prepare you for every hearing.
Do you offer consultations in Spanish?
Yes. Consultations are available in English or Spanish, by phone or in person. Información en español.
Serving San Marcos and nearby communities
We represent families throughout Hays County, including San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Uhland and Niederwald, as well as clients in Bastrop County.
Other practice areas
Attorney Lopez also handles criminal defense, DWI defense, and wills and probate for San Marcos clients.
Free tools for Texas parents
Plan ahead with the same tools we use with clients.
Divorce and family law guides
Free, plain-English articles for San Marcos and Hays County families. See all guides →