Low-Cost Divorce Solutions in San Antonio for Uncontested Cases
Not every divorce turns into a courtroom war. In fact, many couples in San Antonio can end their marriage without ever stepping into a trial – and without draining their bank accounts. If you and your spouse agree on the terms, an uncontested divorce gives you the chance to finalize everything quickly, quietly, and affordably.
This guide breaks down how uncontested divorces work in Texas, where to file for divorce in Bexar County, and the most cost-effective options available. Whether you’re filing on your own or working with a flat-fee attorney, the key is knowing how the local process works – because mistakes, even small ones, can cost you time and money.
What Counts as an Uncontested Divorce in Texas?
“Uncontested divorce” doesn’t mean you like each other – it means you agree on everything that matters. In Texas, for a divorce to qualify as uncontested, both spouses must be 100% on the same page about all legal issues in the case.
That includes:
- How all assets and debts will be divided
- Who gets custody and visitation (if there are kids)
- Who will pay child support and how much
- Whether either spouse will receive spousal maintenance
- How court costs and attorney’s fees will be handled
If there’s even one issue you disagree on, your divorce is contested. That doesn’t mean it has to go to trial – but it does change how the court will process your case and how much it’s going to cost.
Other basic requirements:
- One spouse must have lived in Texas for at least 6 months, and
- In Bexar County for at least 90 days before filing
- Both spouses must be willing to sign all necessary documents, including the Final Decree of Divorce
Uncontested divorces move faster, cost less, and are easier on everyone involved – but only if the agreement is full and legally sound.
Filing an Uncontested Divorce in Bexar County
If you qualify for an uncontested divorce, the next step is filing your case correctly – and in Bexar County, that means understanding local procedures and making sure the paperwork is clean.
Here’s how it works:
1. Prepare the forms.
Use the uncontested divorce forms provided by TexasLawHelp.org or purchase forms from a legal document provider. You’ll need:
- Original Petition for Divorce
- Civil Case Information Sheet
- Waiver of Service (if your spouse won’t be formally served)
- Final Decree of Divorce (Agreed)
2. File your petition.
Submit your completed paperwork to the Bexar County District Clerk’s Office, located at the Paul Elizondo Tower in downtown San Antonio.
- Address: 101 W. Nueva St., Suite 217
- Filing fee: $300–$350 (can request a waiver if you qualify based on income)
3. Get your case number and court assignment.
The clerk will assign your case to one of Bexar County’s civil district courts. This court will handle all filings and the final hearing.
4. Wait the mandatory 60 days.
Texas law requires a 60-day waiting period between the date of filing and the date a judge can finalize your divorce – unless you qualify for an exception due to family violence.
5. Finalize your case in court.
One spouse (usually the one who filed) appears for a brief “prove-up” hearing to present the final decree. Some judges in Bexar County allow virtual hearings; others may require in-person appearance.
Optional:
- You can e-file through the state’s online system (eFileTexas.gov), but make sure you follow local Bexar County filing instructions carefully. Errors in service or incomplete forms can delay your case.
DIY Divorce in San Antonio – When It Works and When It Doesn’t
Filing your own divorce – known as a pro se divorce – can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars. But it’s not the right fit for everyone, especially if your case involves children, property, or any hint of conflict.
When DIY works well:
- No children or both parents agree on custody and support
- No shared real estate, retirement accounts, or debt disputes
- Both parties are willing to sign paperwork quickly
- You’re comfortable following court procedures and paperwork instructions
Resources that can help:
- TexasLawHelp.org offers free, fillable forms with guides
- Bexar County Law Library (on the 5th floor of the Courthouse) has public-access computers and legal form assistance
- Some non-profit organizations offer help with form review or filing support
When to think twice about doing it yourself:
- There’s a disagreement about property, custody, or finances
- One spouse delays or refuses to sign documents
- You’re unsure how to divide a retirement plan or home
- There’s been any history of abuse, intimidation, or power imbalance
Pros and Cons of DIY Divorce:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No attorney fees | One mistake can delay or derail the process |
| Full control over your timeline | Rejected decrees are common if forms aren’t perfect |
| Free and low-cost tools available | No legal advice or protection if issues arise later |
Bottom line? DIY divorce can absolutely work in San Antonio – but only if you know exactly what you’re doing. If you’re not confident, at least have an attorney review your forms before finalizing.
Affordable Legal Help for Uncontested Divorce
Just because your divorce is uncontested doesn’t mean you have to go it alone – or pay top-dollar for help. In San Antonio, there are attorneys and legal services designed specifically for people who want professional support without the hefty price tag.
Flat-Fee Divorce Lawyers in San Antonio
Many local attorneys may offer flat-fee packages for uncontested divorces. These typically range from $500 to $1,500, depending on what’s included. Some packages cover:
- Preparing and reviewing all required documents
- Filing paperwork with the court
- Coaching you for your prove-up hearing
- Some will even attend court with you for a minimal extra fee
Legal Aid and Reduced-Cost Services
If your income qualifies, you may be able to get free or sliding-scale legal help through:
- Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA)
- St. Mary’s University School of Law – Pro Bono Program
- San Antonio Bar Association’s Community Justice Program
These services often fill up quickly, so apply as early as possible.
Limited Scope Representation
Some attorneys now offer “unbundled” services – you pay only for the parts of the divorce you need help with, like:
- Reviewing your decree before you file
- Drafting complex clauses
- Helping with the financial disclosure forms
This can cut costs significantly while still protecting you from costly mistakes.
Where to Start Looking:
- Use the State Bar of Texas Lawyer Referral Service
- Search local bar association directories
- Check reviews and confirm that the attorney is licensed and in good standing
How to Avoid Hidden Costs and Delays
Even a “simple” uncontested divorce can get expensive if you overlook the details. In Bexar County, avoidable mistakes are one of the most common reasons for delays, court rejections, or unexpected fees.
Top problems to watch for:
- Incomplete or incorrect paperwork
If your Final Decree is vague, missing legal language, or has conflicting terms, the court may reject it – or worse, approve something that creates confusion later. - Skipping required disclosures
You must include complete information about assets, debts, and property. Failure to do so can stall your case or lead to post-divorce legal challenges. - Mishandling service of process
If your spouse doesn’t properly waive service or if you fail to serve them through the correct channel, you may have to start over. - Courtroom surprises
Showing up to the final hearing without prepared documents – or without knowing what the judge will ask – can result in a reset or rejection.
Tips to keep your divorce on track:
- Triple-check every form before filing
- Don’t rely on internet templates without Texas-specific updates
- Know which court you’ve been assigned and follow its specific requirements
- Keep copies of everything – including signed waivers and notices
- If you’re not 100% sure about your documents, pay a flat-fee attorney to review them
Spending a little up front to avoid mistakes can save you weeks – and hundreds of dollars – down the line.
Is a Low-Cost Divorce Right for You?
Uncontested divorce can save time, money, and stress – but only if both parties are truly on the same page. Before you choose the cheapest option, take a step back and assess whether a low-cost path will actually work for your situation.
You’re likely a good fit for a low-cost divorce if:
- You both agree on all key issues: property, custody, support
- You’re both willing to sign paperwork and cooperate with timelines
- There are no complex assets (like retirement plans, business interests, or real estate disputes)
- There’s no history of power imbalance, financial control, or abuse
You may need more legal protection if:
- One spouse is hiding information or delaying
- The paperwork feels confusing or overwhelming
- You’ve got doubts about what’s “fair” or legally enforceable
- There’s a risk one party will back out before the final hearing
Some couples start with a DIY or low-cost plan and end up needing legal support mid-way. That’s okay – but if you see red flags early, don’t wait to ask questions or consult a professional.
Ask yourself:
- Am I confident this agreement protects my long-term rights?
- Do I know what this paperwork will mean years from now?
- Would it cost more to fix a mistake than to do this right the first time?
If the answer isn’t clear, it’s time to talk to someone who knows the system.
FAQs About Low-Cost Uncontested Divorce in San Antonio
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Bexar County?
The shortest possible timeline is 61 days (including the 60-day state-mandated waiting period). If everything is filed correctly and both parties cooperate, you can finalize within 2–3 months.
Can I get a divorce without going to court?
Not entirely. Even in uncontested cases, one party typically has to attend a brief final hearing – called a “prove-up” – to finalize the divorce. Some judges allow remote hearings; others may require an in-person appearance.
What if I can’t afford the filing fee?
You can request a waiver of court fees by submitting a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. If approved, this can eliminate the $300–$350 filing fee.
Can we file together to save time?
No. Only one party files the petition, and the other signs a Waiver of Service if both agree to proceed uncontested. You don’t file as co-petitioners under Texas law.
Do we need to split everything 50/50?
Not necessarily. As long as the division is agreed upon and legally fair, the court will usually approve it. Texas follows a “just and right” standard, not a strict 50/50 rule.
Can I use online divorce services?
Some online platforms offer Texas-based forms, but many don’t include local Bexar County filing instructions or proofing for accuracy. If you go this route, have a local attorney review your documents before submitting them.
What happens if my spouse changes their mind mid-way?
Your divorce becomes contested. At that point, you may need legal representation and may have to resolve issues through mediation or a court hearing.
Call Brandi Wolfe for Affordable Uncontested Divorce Help in San Antonio
Even the simplest divorce deserves to be done right. Brandi Wolfe helps clients in San Antonio navigate uncontested divorce with clarity, confidence, and a budget-conscious approach. Whether you just need help with paperwork or want a flat-fee solution from start to finish, she’s ready to help you move forward.
Call (210) 571-0400 to schedule your consultation today.