These agreements are typically referred to as “marital property agreements.” The Texas Family Code governs three types of marital property agreements:
Texas Family Code Section 4.102 allows spouses to partition or exchange between themselves all or part of their community property. Community property is defined as property, other than separate property, obtained by either spouse during the marriage. See Texas Family Code Sec. 3.002
Spouses may at any time choose to enter into an agreement to transfer his or her interest in community property by a partition agreement. This decision results in a particular piece of property or property interest becoming the other spouse’s separate property.
Texas Family Code Section 4.006 governs the enforceability of these agreements. A partition agreement under Section 4.102 must be in writing and signed by both parties. Also if a dispute arises regarding the legitimacy of this agreement, know that the spouse attempting to set aside the premarital agreement must prove that the agreement is unenforceable.
Section 4.006 provides that the party must prove the following:
Spouses may also convert separate property to community property. A spouse’s separate property includes property owned or claimed by the spouse before marriage; property obtained by a spouse during the marriage by gift, devise, or descent; and proceeds recovered for personal injuries sustained by the spouse during the marriage. See Tex. Fam. Code Sec. 3.001. Texas Family Code Section 4.205 governs the enforceability of spouses to convert separate property to community property. An agreement to convert separate property to community property must be voluntarily executed and the party converting his/her separate property must have fair and reasonable disclosure of the legal effect of converting his/her property to community property. See
Section 4.205 also provides for written agreements to contain a statement that should be exhibited in bold-faced type, capital letters, or underlined that provide disclosure language of a party’s knowledge of the effect of converting property to community property. A party resisting the agreement must prove unenforceability, however, unlike Section 4.006, Section 4.205 includes no provisions regarding unconscionability as a defense to enforceability.
James W. Evans is a board-certified family law attorney and the founder of Evans Family Law Group. With over 25 years of experience, he has built a reputation as a trusted advocate for Texas families navigating divorce, custody, and complex family law matters.
Accolades & Distinctions
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney James Evans, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a family law attorney.
Anyone wanting to divorce in Austin, TX will find themselves in conversation with the family law courts. Fa...
Divorce is almost never simple, but there are certainly cases that are more complex than others. If you're ...
Sharing the decision to end a marriage is never simple. Figuring out how to tell your spouse you want a div...
Our Austin divorce lawyers are committed to helping you find effective solutions that protect your interests and provide peace of mind during this pivotal time.
Agreed Divorce can help you move forward with dignity, grace, and respect. Evans Family Law Group helps Austin-area families.
Facing a child custody dispute in Austin can be an overwhelming and emotional experience, filled with legal intricacies and important decisions that impact your family’s future.
Whether establishing child support for the first time, modifying a previous order, or attempting to enforce an order of child support – this issue can turn even the simplest cases into a bitter point of dispute between parents.
Dealing with a high-conflict divorce in Austin? Finding the right lawyer can help protect your interests, handle complex legal issues, and reach a fair resolution.
Prenuptial agreements are not just about dividing assets; they’re about starting a marriage right. Discussions about financial matters early lowers the stress related to monetary issues.
Domestic violence matters in Austin are handled within family law and can involve protective orders and custody-related issues. These cases can significantly impact family court proceedings under Texas law.
Conservatorship determines how parental rights and responsabilities are shared. Our Austin conservatorship lawyers help parents protect their rights and navigate custody matters during difficult family situations.
At Evans Family Law Group, we combine our in-depth knowledge, strategic approach, and commitment to you to achieve optimal results.
Paid consultations are prioritized, and free consultations remain available based on scheduling availability.
Effective in and out of the courtroom with 17 years in practice and over 100 jury trials to our credit.