When Can I Remarry After a Texas Divorce?

 Posted on July 14, 2024 in Divorce

Not every divorce starts out the same. Sometimes the decision comes suddenly, perhaps in reaction to abuse or adultery. Other times, the decision to get divorced is expected and a long time coming, usually after the couple has been drifting apart for a while. In those cases, a spouse may have become involved in a serious romantic relationship and might even be ready to marry by the time the divorce is finalized.

However, while many states allow spouses to remarry immediately after the divorce decree, Texas is one of the states that usually do not. States that have mandatory waiting periods for remarriage after divorce include:

• Kansas — 30-day waiting period

• Washington, D.C. — 30-day waiting period

• Alabama — 60-day waiting period

• Massachusetts — 90-day waiting period

• Rhode Island — Three-month waiting period

• Oklahoma — Three-month waiting period

• Wisconsin — Six-month waiting period

• Nebraska — Six-month waiting period

This article will discuss Texas’ mandatory waiting period for remarriage after divorce, as well as some exceptions to the rule. Be sure to speak with a Texas divorce attorney if you have questions about divorce or getting remarried after your marriage is dissolved.

What Is the Mandatory Waiting Period for Remarriage in Texas?

A couple who gets divorced in Texas must wait at least 30 days before getting remarried. This allows each spouse a month to appeal the terms of the divorce agreement. After 30 days, it is assumed that both spouses still agree to the terms of the divorce and they can then remarry.

Note that this 30-day waiting period begins when the judge issues the divorce decree. There is also a minimum 60-day waiting period from when the petition for divorce is filed with the court to when the judge can issue that decree. From the beginning of the divorce to the end, therefore, there is a minimum of a 90-day waiting period before a divorced spouse can get remarried.

What Are the Exceptions to the Mandatory Waiting Period?

There are two main exceptions to the mandatory waiting period:

• If the same spouses who divorced are getting remarried to each other, they do not need to wait.

• If there is a good cause to waive the mandatory waiting period, the judge can do so.

Examples of good causes include:

• If either spouse will be deployed in the armed forces before the 30 days are up

• If either spouse will be assigned to permanent duty overseas before the 30 days are up

• If the spouses had not lived together for years before the divorce

• If either spouse is scheduled to undergo surgery for a serious medical condition before the 30 days are up

Contact a Frisco, TX Divorce Lawyer

Getting remarried after divorce can be a complicated process, but not when you work with the experienced attorneys at The Law Office of Linda Risinger. We have been practicing family law for over 30 years and we know what it takes to get you the best results possible. Call 972-294-6533 to schedule a free consultation with a Collin County, TX divorce attorney.