How Long After a Divorce Can You Remarry in Texas?

By Frank Vendt | October 26, 2023

Have you recently gone through a divorce and are wondering, “How long after a divorce can you remarry in Texas?” Well, you have come to the right place.

Divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process, and its legal implications extend beyond the dissolution of a marriage. In Texas, as in many other states, there are legal requirements and waiting periods before you can remarry after a divorce.

This blog delves into the specific regulations in Texas regarding how long you must wait to remarry. We will also look into the various legal aspects associated with this process.

So, let’s get started.

The Waiting Period in Texas

How long after divorce can you remarry? In the state of Texas, there is a waiting period before you can remarry after getting a divorce. This waiting period is 30 days from the date the divorce is finalized.

It is important to understand that this is not a discretionary waiting period; it is mandated by the state’s laws. During this time, neither party involved in the divorce can marry someone else.

The purpose of this waiting period is to allow time for the divorce process to conclude, and for any appeals or legal challenges to be resolved. It allows individuals to make a well-considered decision about entering into a new marriage.

Why Is There a Waiting Period to Remarry in Texas?

In Texas, the waiting period is established to provide both spouses with the option to contest or appeal the terms of the divorce settlement. Once these thirty days have elapsed, it offers the assurance that the divorce terms will remain unchanged. This enables individuals to consider a new marriage if they so desire.

It can be trying to navigate the obligatory waiting period when you are eager to remarry. However, it is an essential safeguard to ensure that both parties have a fair opportunity to contest any aspects of the divorce agreement.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the other waiting periods that apply in the divorce and remarriage process.

Firstly, there is a sixty-day waiting period from the time of filing for divorce to when a judge can finalize it. Furthermore, after obtaining a marriage license, there is an additional 72-hour waiting period before a legal marriage can take place in Texas. This cumulative timeline implies that there is a minimum waiting period of 93 days between filing for divorce and embarking on a new marital union.

So, if you are wondering how soon after divorce can you remarry in Texas, keep in mind the above timelines too.

What Are the Exceptions?

Do you have to wait 30 days to get married after a divorce? Well, Yes but there are exceptions.

Two scenarios exempt individuals from adhering to the compulsory waiting period following a divorce before pursuing remarriage:

If you and your former spouse intend to remarry each other, you can do so before the waiting period has concluded.
In certain circumstances, a judge may exercise the authority to waive the 30-day waiting period.

But compelling reasons or “good cause” must be demonstrated (as stipulated in the Texas Family Code – FAM § 6.802).

A judge possesses the authority to approve your request for waiving the mandatory thirty-day waiting period for remarriage. However, there must be a compelling reason to do so. Such compelling reasons may encompass specific circumstances like:

Deployment: If you or your intended spouse are set to be deployed before the thirty-day waiting period expires.
Permanent Overseas Duty: In the event that either of you is scheduled for permanent duty overseas prior to the waiting period’s conclusion.
Health Emergency: If you or your future spouse must undergo surgery for a critical health issue before the waiting period elapses.
Lengthy Separation: In cases where you had not seen or cohabited with your divorced former spouse for an extended duration leading up to the divorce.

Ultimately, the judge exercises discretion in assessing the facts and nuances of your individual circumstances to determine whether the waiting period should be waived. Engaging a skilled Richmond TX divorce attorney can significantly enhance your ability to present a compelling case for why you should be exempt from the thirty-day waiting requirement for remarriage.

Legal Requirements for Remarrying

While the 30-day waiting period is a mandatory requirement, there are additional legal requirements and considerations to keep in mind when remarrying after a divorce in Texas.

Finalized Divorce Decree: Before considering remarriage, it is essential to ensure that your divorce decree is finalized and filed with the court. This decree outlines the terms of the divorce settlement, including property division, child custody, and alimony. It is a legally binding document and must be adhered to.
Residency Requirements: Texas law requires at least one of the parties seeking to remarry to be a resident of the state. This means that you must be living in Texas for at least six months before filing for remarriage. If you are a non-resident, you may need to consider residency requirements before planning your remarriage.
Age Requirements: In Texas, individuals must be at least 18 years old to get married without parental consent. If either party is under 18, written parental consent is required.
Marriage License: To remarry, you will need to obtain a marriage license from a county clerk’s office in Texas. Both parties must appear in person to apply for the license, and certain documentation, such as a valid photo ID and proof of divorce, may be required. Marriage licenses are typically valid for up to 90 days.
Waiting Period Compliance: It’s crucial to adhere to the 30-day waiting period after your divorce is finalized before getting remarried. Attempting to marry before this waiting period ends can lead to legal complications.

Let’s now look at the potential issues you could face if you do not adhere to the mandatory waiting period before remarrying.

Potential Legal Issues

Proceeding with a marriage prior to the expiration of the waiting period, absent a judge-granted waiver, can expose you to legal complications. There may be potential challenges from your former spouse, and the risk of having your new marriage deemed “voidable.”

Moreover, remarrying before the waiting period is over provides an opportunity for a disgruntled ex-spouse to contest your new marriage. This could potentially lead to legal disputes and unwanted complications.

Here are some other issues you may encounter:

Bigamy: Attempting to remarry before your divorce is finalized or during the waiting period can result in a bigamy charge. Bigamy refers to the act of marrying someone while already legally married to another person. In Texas, bigamy is a criminal offense and can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Contested Divorce: If your divorce is contested, it is essential to wait until all such issues are resolved and the divorce decree is final. Attempting to remarry during this time can complicate the legal proceedings.
Property Division: The terms of property division outlined in the divorce decree should be adhered to after the divorce is finalized. Any attempt to remarry without abiding by these terms may lead to legal conflicts.

Waiting for the full thirty days before entering a new marriage is a more straightforward and legally secure choice. Doing so can help you avoid the possibility of your new marriage being declared void or facing legal entanglements.

Prenuptial Agreements

In addition to the legal requirements and waiting period for remarriage in Texas, couples may also consider entering into a prenuptial agreement.

A prenuptial agreement, also known as a prenup, is a legally binding contract that outlines how assets and liabilities will be divided in case of divorce. It can be particularly valuable for individuals who want to protect their assets, business interests, or inheritance.

Prenuptial agreements can address various financial and property-related matters. They can help ensure that both parties are on the same page regarding these issues before entering into a new marriage. However, it is crucial to draft a prenuptial agreement with the assistance of a qualified family law attorney to ensure its validity and enforceability.

Marriage Counseling and Emotional Preparation

Understanding the legal requirements for remarriage after a divorce is crucial. It is also equally important to prepare emotionally and psychologically for this significant life change. Many people find it helpful to seek marriage counseling or therapy before getting remarried, especially if their previous marriage ended in divorce.

Marriage counseling can provide a safe and supportive environment to address unresolved issues, improve communication, and strengthen the foundation of the new relationship. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the past, learn from previous mistakes, and work toward a healthier, more fulfilling partnership in the future.

Emotional preparation for remarriage also involves assessing personal readiness. This includes considering the reasons for wanting to remarry. It ensures that you’ve healed from the emotional wounds of the previous marriage, and assessing your expectations and goals for the new relationship.

Financial Considerations

Remarrying after a divorce can have significant financial implications, and it’s essential to address these considerations early in the process. Some important financial aspects to consider include:

Child Support and Alimony: If you or your former spouse are paying child support or alimony, the remarriage can impact these financial obligations. It’s essential to understand the legal implications and, if necessary, consult with an attorney to modify court orders.
Beneficiary Designations: Review and update beneficiary designations on insurance policies, retirement accounts, and estate plans to reflect your new marital status and wishes.
Property and Assets: Discuss how property and assets from the previous marriage will be managed in the new marriage. Consider issues related to joint accounts, home ownership, and other shared financial responsibilities.
Financial Goals: Communicate openly about financial goals, such as saving, investing, and managing debt. A shared understanding of financial priorities can contribute to a harmonious and stable marriage.

The Role of Children

For individuals with children, the decision to remarry involves not just personal considerations but also those related to their children. It’s essential to approach this transition with sensitivity and care.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Open Communication: Discuss your decision to remarry with your children. Listen to their concerns and feelings and address any fears they may have. It’s crucial to create a safe and supportive environment for them to express themselves.
Parenting Roles: Clarify the roles and responsibilities of each parent within the new marriage. It’s important to maintain a balance that ensures the well-being of the children and supports their emotional and psychological needs.
Co-parenting with Ex-Spouse: If you share custody of children with your former spouse, maintaining a positive and cooperative co-parenting relationship is essential. Ensure that your new marriage does not disrupt the child’s sense of stability.
Blended Family Dynamics: In cases where both partners have children from previous marriages, creating a harmonious blended family is a process that requires patience and understanding. Family counseling and support can be valuable in navigating these dynamics.

The Importance of Legal Counsel

Navigating the legal complexities and emotional nuances of remarriage after divorce in Texas can be a challenging task. Therefore, it is highly advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified family law attorney who specializes in divorce and remarriage cases.

An experienced attorney can help you understand the legal requirements, ensure compliance with the waiting period, and assist in obtaining the necessary marriage license. They can also provide guidance on prenuptial agreements, financial considerations, and any potential legal issues that may arise.

Legal counsel can help you protect your rights, assets, and interests while ensuring that the remarriage process is as smooth and legally sound as possible. Additionally, they can help address any issues related to child custody, support, or alimony, ensuring that the best interests of all parties are considered.

The Vendt Law Firm- The Legal Counsel You Need

When navigating the intricate legal landscape of remarriage after divorce in Texas, it is crucial to have the guidance and support of a seasoned family law firm. At The Vendt Law Firm, we specialize in providing expert counsel and assistance in matters related to divorce, remarriage, and all facets of family law.

Our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in Texas family law regulations. We can ensure that your transition into a new marriage is not only legally sound but also as smooth and stress-free as possible. We are dedicated to protecting your rights, interests, and the well-being of all parties involved.

If you are considering remarriage after a divorce in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Vendt Law Firm. Our knowledgeable attorneys can help you navigate the waiting period and address any potential legal challenges. We can also provide invaluable advice on prenuptial agreements, financial considerations, and more.

Schedule your appointment today.