What’s the Difference Between Uncontested, Agreed, and No-Fault Divorce?

When people begin the divorce process, it’s easy to get confused by terms like uncontested divorce, agreed divorce, and no-fault divorce. While these phrases often overlap in conversation, they each mean something distinct under Texas family law.

As female divorce attorneys serving Denton County, Texas, we guide clients from Flower Mound, Lewisville, Highland Village, and surrounding communities through these differences every day. Understanding which type of divorce applies to your situation can make the process clearer and less stressful.

Amie Peace

Over 20 Years of Legal Experience

Rated Super Lawyer 9 Times

Featured In Texas Monthly Magazine

What Is an Uncontested Divorce in Texas?

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all aspects of their case before the divorce is finalized, including:

  • Division of community property and debts
  • Child custody, visitation, and child support
  • Spousal maintenance or alimony (based on the parties agreement)

Uncontested divorces are generally faster, less expensive, and more private than contested divorces because there are no disputes to resolve in court. Many couples reach their agreement through mediation or collaborative negotiation before submitting their final paperwork.

Even in an uncontested divorce, it’s important to work with a Denton County divorce lawyer who ensures that all legal documents are properly prepared according to Denton County Court local rules and meet Denton County Court requirements for Denton County divorces.

Internal Link Suggestion: Link “Denton County divorce lawyer” to your main divorce services page (e.g., /divorce-lawyer-denton-county/).

What Is an Agreed Divorce in Texas?

An agreed divorce is similar to an uncontested divorce, but the main difference lies in how the agreement is reached.

In some cases, a couple may begin the divorce process with disagreements, but after working through mediation or attorney-led negotiation, they reach full agreement on all terms. Once both parties sign an Agreed Final Decree of Divorce, the case becomes an agreed divorce.

This path can save time, reduce conflict, and give both spouses more control over their future and more privacy in their divorce—without leaving decisions entirely up to a judge.

Internal Link Suggestion: Link “mediation” to your page on mediation or alternative dispute resolution (e.g., /mediation-divorce-texas/).

What Is a No-Fault Divorce in Texas?

A no-fault divorce refers to the grounds for divorce rather than how it’s handled procedurally.

Texas law allows couples to divorce without proving that one spouse was at fault. The most common no-fault ground is “insupportability”, which means that conflict or discord has made the marriage insupportable and there is no reasonable expectation of reconciliation.  No specific divorce ground has to be plead (for example, adultery or abandonment) to start the divorce.

No-fault divorce helps couples focus on resolving practical issues—like property division or parenting time—without assigning blame.

However, fault-based grounds such as adultery or cruelty can still impact the outcome of property division or spousal support in some cases.

These questions can be discussed with a Denton County divorce attorney to determine the importance of grounds in your divorce.

Internal Link Suggestion: Link “property division” to your property division service page (e.g., /property-division-attorney-texas/).

Which Type of Divorce Is Right for You?

If you and your spouse agree on everything, an uncontested or agreed divorce may be the most efficient and peaceful route. But if there are issues, disputes or questions about children, finances, or property, a contested divorce may be the necessary choice to being the divorce to protect your interests.

Our knowledgeable Texas family law attorneys can help you understand your options and guide you toward the approach that fits your goals and family circumstances.

Compassionate Legal Guidance in Denton County

At Peace & Associates Family Law, we provide experienced, compassionate representation to clients throughout Denton County, including Flower Mound, Lewisville, Argyle, and Highland Village.

Whether your case is uncontested, agreed, or contested, our goal is to help you navigate your divorce with dignity, understanding, and peace of mind.

Call Peace & Associates Family Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.

Amie S. Peace
Rated by Super Lawyers


loading ...
Amie S. Peace
Rated by Super Lawyers


loading ...

Call Us When It’s Convenient

We can get started today. Call us to schedule a phone, or in office consultation.

“We care about each and every one of our clients and the legal issues they bring to us for assistance with. Whether you need help and guidance with a divorce or family law issue, modifying custody orders, establishing an estate plan, or probate issue, we will treat you and your case with the respect and the priority it deserves.”

Amie Peace

Founder of Peace & Associates, PLLC

Send Us A Message
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Your Name(Required)

By submitting my data I agree to be contacted