Divorce Courts in Harris County, TX
Court Name | Location | Phone | Hours | Judge(s) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Harris County 245th Family District Court | 201 Caroline St, 15th Floor, Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 274-4500 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Tristan H. Longino |
Harris County 246th Family District Court | 201 Caroline St, 16th Floor, Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 274-4600 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Angela Graves-Harrington |
Harris County 247th Family District Court | 201 Caroline St, 17th Floor, Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 274-4700 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Janice Berg |
Harris County 257th Family District Court | 201 Caroline St, 18th Floor, Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 274-4900 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Sandralee Marche Jackson |
Harris County Divorce Filing Fee
The average base filing fee in Harris County for a divorce is approximately $300. The service fee is typically $75 per defendant if using sheriff’s service. You can contact the Harris County District Clerk’s office at (713) 755-7300 to get more accurate information.
Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Harris County, Texas, at least one spouse must have lived in Texas for six months before filing. Additionally, one spouse must have resided in Harris County for at least 90 days prior to filing. Proof of residency can include a driver’s license, utility bills, or a notarized affidavit.
How to File for Divorce in Harris,Texas
1. Prepare Your Divorce Forms
Gather all necessary paperwork including your marriage certificate, financial records, property deeds, and information about shared assets and debts. For couples with children, collect birth certificates and prepare details about custody preferences and support arrangements.
2. Complete Required Forms
Fill out the official divorce complaint forms, domestic relations information sheet, and summons. If children are involved, you’ll need additional forms including the child support information sheet. Forms must be complete and accurate to avoid rejection.
3. Submit Paperwork to the Court
Submit all completed and signed divorce documents to the Clerk of Court in your county. Once your forms are filed and the fee is paid (or waived), the court will assign a case number to your divorce. A judge will also be assigned to review your case and issue the final divorce judgment.
4. Serve Your Spouse With Papers
Legally notify your spouse about the divorce filing through sheriff’s service, certified mail, or a private process server. Your spouse has a limited period to respond to the complaint. This step is crucial as the divorce cannot proceed until proper service is documented with the court.