In Texas divorce proceedings, a critical document allows a respondent to voluntarily relinquish their right to formal notification of the lawsuit. This document, when properly executed and filed with the court, acknowledges that the respondent is aware of the divorce action and consents to the court’s jurisdiction. As an example, a respondent living out of state, upon receiving a copy of the petition, may choose to sign and file this document rather than requiring the petitioner to formally serve them through a process server or other authorized means.
This mechanism streamlines the divorce process, potentially saving time and expense associated with locating and serving the respondent. It can foster a more amicable resolution, indicating a willingness to cooperate and avoid unnecessary conflict. Historically, this procedural option has been a cornerstone of Texas divorce law, providing a pathway for uncontested or mutually agreed-upon dissolutions of marriage to proceed efficiently.