Pro Se Instructions For Divorce With Children printable pdf download

CAUSE NO. 325-_____________

PRO SE INSTRUCTIONS FOR DIVORCE WITH CHILDREN

Helpful Information

The Texas Young Lawyers Association published the Pro Se Divorce Handbook to answer many of your

questions. You can read it online at

or at Tarrant County Law Library. You can get free divorce

forms at

Please do not ask the court clerk for legal advice. By law, only lawyers may give legal advice. The clerks

are not attorneys. For legal advice you need to hire an attorney. You can also attend one of the free legal clinic

listed on the attached sheet.

Your Court Date

Wait at least 61 days from the date the divorce petition was filed before you can go to court to get

your divorce. The 61-day waiting period is required by law and there are no exceptions.

Call the court secretary at 817-884-1587 to schedule a prove-up appointment. Call a few days before

you plan to go to court. At the prove-up appointment, this happens.

Be at the District Clerk’s Office between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. on your scheduled court date.

Going to Court

Proper clothing is required. Dress as if you were going to a professional job interview. (See enclosed)

Bring a pen with you.

If you need a translator, bring an adult who is at least 18 years old and fluent in both your native

language and in English.

You must attend “Kids First” Program at The Parenting Center before you can see the Judge to get

your divorce. (Information is enclosed) Phone 817-332-6348.

Forms you will need

You must fill out the required forms. Some forms the court will give you in a packet when you file for

divorce. The other forms you can get free at

1. Waiver of Service. Make sure your Waiver of Service is signed and notarized any day after the petition

for divorce is filed. If a Waiver is not signed you must have the other side served with citation by a

Constable or Sheriff or by certified mail through the District Clerk’s office. The District Clerk’s office does

not provide notary service.

2. Decree of Divorce. Bring the original and four (4) copies.

3. Appearance Sheet. Bring only the original.

Tarrant County District Clerk & 325

District Court

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Pro Se Instruction/Kids rev. 9/15/2008

Pro Se Instructions For Divorce With Children