What Is a “General Denial” in a Texas Divorce?

When you are served with divorce papers in Texas, you typically have a limited window to file a written response with the court. In many cases, that response is a simple, standard filing called a “general denial.” Despite how it sounds, a general denial is not an aggressive move and it does not mean you are calling the other party a liar. It is primarily a procedural step that prevents a default judgment and preserves your ability to address issues like property, support, and parenting issues as the case moves forward.

What a General Denial Means

A general denial is a broad, standard response that tells the court:

• You are participating in the case.

• You are not automatically agreeing with everything stated in the divorce petition.

• The other party must prove what they are requesting.

  
  

A general denial is often used as a protective filing at the start of a case, especially before a full review of the facts and financial documents has been completed.

What a General Denial Does (and Does Not) Communicate

It does mean:

• You are preventing a default outcome where orders could be entered without your input.

  
  

• You are preserving your right to dispute requests related to:

  
  

   - Fault

  - Property division 

   - Conservatorship

   - Possession and Access Schedules

   - Child support

   - Spousal maintenance

   - Attorney’s fees

  
  

• You are requiring the other side to establish the basis for what they are asking the court to do.

  
  

It does not mean:

• You are accusing the other party of lying about everything.

• You are refusing to negotiate or settle.

• You are “fighting the divorce itself.”

  
  

In most cases, a general denial is simply a procedural tool that keeps your options open while the case moves forward.

How Filing a General Denial Affects the Divorce Process

Filing a general denial does not decide any issue by itself. Instead, it typically places the case on the normal track toward resolution, which often includes:

1. Temporary arrangements (if needed). Some cases require interim agreements or court orders to address finances, parenting schedules, or use of the home while the divorce is pending.

2. Information gathering. Both sides exchange and review financial and other relevant information.

3. Negotiation. Many cases resolve through negotiated settlement once the key facts are clear.

4. Mediation. A structured settlement process is often used to reach a final agreement.

5. Final resolution. If the case does not settle, unresolved issues are decided at a final hearing.

A general denial is usually the beginning of participation, not an indication that your case is or will become a high-conflict case.

Common Questions Clients Ask

1. “Does this mean I disagree with getting divorced?”

   Not necessarily. A general denial typically addresses the requests and allegations in the petition, not whether a divorce will occur.

2. “Can we still settle if we file a general denial?”

   Yes. Filing a general denial does not prevent settlement discussions or mediation.

3. “Should I file something more specific?”

   Sometimes. Depending on the circumstances, additional filings may be appropriate to address specific issues or requests. That decision is fact-dependent.

Talk to a Lawyer About the Right Filing for Your Situation

This post is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Deadlines and strategy matter in divorce cases, and the best response is not always the same for every person. If you have been served with divorce papers or you are considering filing, please call The Law Office of Lindsey Lewis, PLLC to schedule a consultation today. We can help you understand what filings make sense for your goals, your timeline, and the issues involved.