Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

What to do next

Live in Houston, Texas.I filled for divorce and separated back in December05. My lawyer did not send it until March 06. No kids, no property. Married since 09/2000.No know whereabouts of wife.Last know address in Louisiana. Try serving her, she moved out. I want to get this done.My lawyer wants more money to try serving her, however we don't know where she is at so I do not understand her request. Is there anything I can do to proceed without serving her? Can't even get lawyer to return my calls. Ex went into my personal bank account and made payments by phone using it. Could not press charges police tells me she is still my wife until divorce is final. I do not want anymore surprises. Checked on internet to try finding her, all addresses even her DL is still listed to my address. I own my condo before i was married, since 1996 and we never got any property together, we even had no joint accounts as bank or anything else. I need to know how I can get this divorce done even when there is nothing to ''fight'' over. Please help with advice as to what to do next.

Thank You.

Ps: I know I picked the worst lawyer on earth


Asked on 8/22/06, 8:50 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Fran Brochstein Attorney & Mediator

Re: What to do next

I agree with James Grissom.

However, the publication newspaper fee in Houston is under $100. But the Houston judges will appoint an attorney to try to locate her. Their fee is usually between $250-$750.

If you filed in Harris County, your case should be coming up for trial. You need to get the trial date re-set or else your case will be dismissed and you will have to start all over again.

Good luck!

www.familylaw4u.com

713.847.6000

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Answered on 8/23/06, 1:52 pm
James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: What to do next

If you picked the worst lawyer dump him/her and go get another one. I know there are a bunch of good lawyers in HOU. But, this attorney is right about this issue. You cannot proceed without serving the citation. You could serve a close relative if any are nearby or you could serve her by publication if you pinky swear that you don't know where she is and can't find her. This costs about $500-$600 just for the newspaper fee where I live plus attorneys fees. good Luck

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Answered on 8/22/06, 9:45 pm


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