If you are thinking about divorcing your spouse, you are likely to face some uncertainty. That is, you may worry about where you are going to live or what car you are going to drive until the divorce concludes. A temporary orders hearing may bring some focus to an otherwise unclear situation.
In Texas, either spouse may request a temporary orders hearing. As its name suggests, the hearing provides an opportunity for a judge to settle urgent matters until the parties can reach a permanent arrangement. Here are a few things you should know about this type of hearing.
The hearing is optional
Even if your marriage is heading for an inevitable end, you and your spouse may be able to negotiate pre-divorce matters. For example, you may each have a car you can drive or a house where you can live. You may also be able to come up with your own plan for sharing income, paying debts or caring for the family pet. If so, you probably do not need to request a temporary orders hearing. Nevertheless, if the judge schedules one, you must attend.
You make a first impression
The presiding judge at a temporary orders hearing is likely to be the same one who finalizes your divorce. Therefore, you want to make a good first impression at the hearing. Preparing a solid case is essential. After all, judges often eventually make temporary orders permanent.
You must not violate the order
Judges usually do not take kindly to violations of their orders. Therefore, if a judge issues a temporary order, you must follow it. Failing to do so may encourage the judge to hold you in contempt. That is, you may have to pay associated court costs and legal fees. Even worse, if you irritate the judge, the outcome of your divorce may also favor your spouse.
Neither you nor your soon-to-be ex-spouse may need to ask a judge for a temporary order hearing. If you have to go through one, though, you must take it seriously.