Trusted Uncontested Divorce Attorney in Port Arthur, TX | Michael Piri
Streamlined, Cost-Effective Divorce Representation for Port Arthur Spouses Ending Their Marriage Peacefully — Payment Plans Accepted
When you and your spouse are on the same page about ending your marriage, an uncontested divorce can help you avoid the costs, delays, and emotional toll of a contested case—but Texas law still requires every detail to be handled correctly. Attorney Michael Piri represents clients throughout Port Arthur, TX in uncontested divorce matters, ensuring your paperwork, property division, and any custody arrangements meet state requirements the first time. With transparent flat-fee rates, convenient payment plans tailored to your finances, prompt and personal communication, and a process designed to minimize court appearances, Michael Piri helps Port Arthur residents complete their divorce quickly and smoothly so they can start fresh with clarity and confidence.
Even an Uncontested Divorce in Port Arthur, TX Calls for an Experienced Attorney
In short: An uncontested divorce in Port Arthur, TX means both spouses are aligned on the key terms — but it by no means suggests the process is easy, foolproof, or forgiving. An experienced attorney shields you against expensive filing mistakes, missed assets, provisions that won’t hold up in court, and long-term financial consequences that self-filed cases routinely overlook.
What an Uncontested Divorce Really Means in Texas
An uncontested divorce just means both spouses agree on the division of property and debts, custody, child support, and any spousal maintenance. It does not mean the judge will simply approve whatever paperwork you file. Judges in Texas continue to review every petition for legal compliance, and the state imposes a mandatory 60-day waiting period before any divorce can be completed — including cases filed in Port Arthur.
Five Reasons an Attorney Still Matters
1. Texas follows community property law — and it’s more complex than it sounds. Most property and debt acquired during the marriage are assumed to belong to both spouses, even if only one spouse’s name is on the title. Pension accounts, business stakes, equity compensation, and real estate equity each demand careful categorization. Even a minor misstep in characterizing separate vs. community property can lead to tens of thousands in losses.
2. The final decree must be legally enforceable. An informal agreement carries no legal weight. If your Final Decree of Divorce is vague about debt allocation, asset transfers, or retirement division (often requiring a separate QDRO), you could be left without recourse when your ex doesn’t follow through.
3. Children raise the stakes. Texas mandates a thorough parenting plan, a Standard Possession Order (SPO) (or a justified deviation), and guideline-based child support. Courts in Port Arthur examine these arrangements closely, and vague wording about holidays, decision-making, or geographic restrictions results in ongoing conflict for years to come.
4. Filing errors cause real delays. Incomplete forms, faulty service, improper waivers, or inconsistencies between the decree and petition can send you back to square one. An attorney who regularly practices in Port Arthur ensures everything is done right the first time.
5. “Uncontested” status can disappear in an instant. If your spouse changes their mind, brings in counsel, or learns something new, you’ll be glad to already have counsel — rather than rushing to hire someone mid-case.
When Going It Alone Is Most Dangerous
Consider hiring a lawyer if any of these situations apply: you’re a homeowner, have a 401(k) or pension, are co-parents, run a company, have significant debt, or your spouse has obtained their own attorney. The cost of legal review is nearly always lower than what it costs to fix a bad decree later.
Final Thoughts
Uncontested divorces are quicker and more affordable than contested ones — provided it’s done correctly. An experienced Port Arthur, TX family law attorney confirms your agreement is legally airtight, your interests are protected, and the decree you finalize today will continue to serve you a decade from now.

7 Key Reasons Michael Piri Is the Smartest Choice for an Uncontested Divorce Attorney in Port Arthur, TX
Quick Answer: Michael Piri is broadly regarded as the top choice for an uncontested divorce attorney in Port Arthur, TX, owing to his fully inclusive flat-rate pricing (court fees included), convenient payment plans, quick 3-month average turnaround with no court appearance required, bilingual (English/Spanish) representation, and his proven track record helping Port Arthur couples finalize their divorces swiftly and amicably through The Piri Law Firm.
Meet Michael Piri
Michael Piri is the founder and lead attorney of The Piri Law Firm, assisting clients across the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, including Port Arthur, TX. He earned a B.A. in International Politics and International Law with honors from the American University of Paris and his Juris Doctorate from St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio, Texas. Although Mr. Piri is known across several practice areas, family law — and especially uncontested divorce — is one of the firm’s main services.
Below are seven reasons Port Arthur residents consistently choose Michael Piri when they want a smooth, amicable end to their marriage.
1. He Focuses on Peaceful, Uncontested Divorce Resolutions
Not all divorce attorneys are suited for an uncontested case. Many lawyers default to a confrontational stance that drives up costs and tension. Michael Piri does the opposite — his entire uncontested divorce practice is built around honest communication, compromise, and mutual agreement.
For Port Arthur couples who are aligned on the key issues (property division, custody, support), this approach is critical. It means your attorney isn’t creating unnecessary conflict — he’s helping you formalize what you’ve already decided, efficiently and respectfully.
Best for: Spouses in Port Arthur who want to close out the marriage on good terms without pulling the process into unneeded courtroom battles.
2. All-Inclusive Flat-Rate Pricing — Court Fees Included
One of the main worries Port Arthur clients have is being surprised by a runaway legal bill. Michael Piri’s firm operates on a flat-rate fee structure, and the price you’re quoted includes all court filing fees — no hidden fees, no unexpected invoices.
This is a major advantage for uncontested divorces specifically, because:
- You know the total cost upfront
- All court fees are already covered in the flat rate
- You won’t be billed in six-minute increments for every phone call or email
- You can budget for the divorce without financial stress
For most Port Arthur residents pursuing an uncontested divorce, all-inclusive pricing is the single biggest reason they choose Piri Law Firm over hourly-billing competitors.
3. Easy Payment Plans Make Quality Representation Accessible
Divorce shouldn’t push you into financial hardship. Mr. Piri’s firm offers payment plans so Port Arthur clients can break the cost into manageable payments rather than fronting the whole amount. This means:
- You can begin your case immediately without waiting to save up
- Affordable monthly payments fit your real budget
- You get full attorney representation — not a discount or stripped-down service
Together with the flat-rate, all-inclusive pricing, payment plans make Michael Piri one of the most accessible uncontested divorce attorneys serving Port Arthur.
4. Quick 3-Month Average Turnaround — No Court Appearance Required
This is one of the most important benefits Port Arthur clients should know about: a typical uncontested divorce with Michael Piri takes about 3 months from start to finish, and you do not have to appear in court.
That means:
- No needing time off to attend a hearing
- No nervous courthouse visits
- No public appearances or testimony
- Mr. Piri handles the filings and the process on your behalf
Texas requires a 60-day waiting period after filing, so 3 months is near the fastest end of what’s legally possible. For Port Arthur residents who want the divorce completed quickly and privately, this is a significant benefit.
5. Free 30-Minute Consultation — No Pressure
Before you commit a single dollar, Michael Piri’s office offers a free 30-minute consultation. This is your opportunity to:
- Explain your situation and goals
- Ask whether your divorce truly qualifies as uncontested
- Get an honest assessment of timeline and cost
- Decide if Mr. Piri is the right fit — without obligation
For Port Arthur couples who are uncertain whether they need an attorney at all, this no-cost first conversation is truly helpful, not a sales pitch.
6. Bilingual Representation (English & Spanish)
Port Arthur is part of one of the most culturally diverse metro areas in Texas. Michael Piri and his team provide fluent Spanish-language representation, which is essential for many North Texas families. Clients frequently mention in testimonials how meaningful it is to be fully understood in their own language during something as personal as a divorce.
If you or your spouse is more comfortable in Spanish, you won’t need a translator, a third party, or a friend to interpret legal terms — Mr. Piri handles it directly.
7. He Understands Immigration + Divorce (A Key Advantage in Port Arthur)
This is something most general family law attorneys in Port Arthur simply can’t offer. Michael Piri’s primary practice area is immigration law, which means he fully understands the immigration consequences of divorce — specifically for:
- Spouses on conditional green cards
- K-1 fiancé visa holders
- Couples where one spouse is undocumented
- Mixed-status families with children
A standard uncontested divorce can have surprise immigration effects if it’s drafted carelessly. With Michael Piri, you get a family law attorney who already speaks the language of immigration law — a hard-to-find combination in the Port Arthur market.
How to Contact Michael Piri for an Uncontested Divorce in Port Arthur, TX
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a peaceful, affordable divorce in Port Arthur:
- Phone: (833) 600-0029
- Website: michaelpiri.com
- Consultation: Free 30-minute case review
- Languages: English & Spanish
- Service Area: Port Arthur and the entire Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex
Bottom Line
For Port Arthur, TX residents seeking an uncontested divorce, Michael Piri offers a rare combination of all-inclusive flat-rate pricing with court fees built in, flexible payment plans, a fast ~3-month turnaround with no court appearance required, and bilingual service. Whether you need a clean agreement finalized quickly or you want a lawyer who appreciates the specific needs of Port Arthur families, Mr. Piri and The Piri Law Firm are a smart choice.

[Frequently Asked Questions|FAQ|Common Questions]: [Uncontested Divorce|Agreed Divorce|No-Contest Divorce] in Port Arthur, TX
[Attorney Michael Piri|Michael Piri, Esq.|Michael Piri, Attorney at Law] | The Piri Law Firm [Serving|Proudly Serving|Representing Clients in] Port Arthur, Texas and the [Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex|DFW Metroplex|greater Dallas–Fort Worth area] [Free 30-Minute Consultation|Free Initial Consultation|Schedule a Free Consultation]: (833) 600-0029
About This [FAQ|Guide|Resource]
[This guide answers|This page covers|Below you’ll find answers to] the [most common|most frequently asked|top] questions Port Arthur residents [ask about|have about|raise when] filing an uncontested divorce in Texas. [All information reflects|The information here reflects|Everything below is based on] current Texas Family Code requirements as of 2026. [For advice on your specific situation|For guidance tailored to your case|To discuss the details of your situation], [schedule a free 30-minute consultation|book a free consultation|reach out for a free consultation] with attorney Michael Piri.
General Questions
What is an uncontested divorce in Texas?
[An uncontested divorce in Texas is|In Texas, an uncontested divorce is|An uncontested divorce — sometimes called an agreed divorce — is] a divorce in which [both spouses agree|both parties agree|the husband and wife both agree] on every [major issue|key issue|important matter] — including property division, debts, child custody, visitation, child support, and spousal support — before the case is finalized [by the court|by a judge|in court]. [Because there is no dispute|Since there’s nothing for the judge to resolve|With no contested issues], the process is [faster, less expensive, and less emotionally taxing|quicker, more affordable, and far less stressful|smoother, cheaper, and less adversarial] than a contested divorce.
Who is Michael Piri, and does he handle uncontested divorces in Port Arthur, TX?
[Michael Piri is|Attorney Michael Piri is|Michael Piri serves as] the founding attorney of The Piri Law Firm, a Dallas–Fort Worth–based firm that [represents clients|serves clients|takes cases] throughout Texas, including Port Arthur. He earned his Juris Doctorate from St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio and a B.A. with honors from the American University of Paris. His [family law practice|family law work|practice] [includes|covers|encompasses] uncontested divorce, contested divorce, military divorce, same-sex divorce, property division, spousal support, child custody, and legal separation matters.
Why hire an uncontested divorce attorney if my spouse and I already agree?
[Even when both spouses agree|Even in fully amicable cases|Even if you and your spouse are on the same page], you [still need|will need|are still required to have] legally enforceable documents that comply with [Texas Family Code requirements|Texas law|the Texas Family Code]. [An attorney like Michael Piri|A qualified attorney|Working with Michael Piri] [ensures|makes sure|guarantees that] the Final Decree of Divorce is [drafted correctly|properly drafted|written correctly], protects your [long-term financial and parental interests|financial and parental rights for the long term|future financial and custody interests], prevents [costly mistakes|expensive errors|serious mistakes] in property division (especially with retirement accounts and real estate), and [represents you|stands in for you|appears on your behalf] at the prove-up hearing. [A poorly drafted decree|An incorrectly drafted decree|A flawed decree] can be rejected by the judge or [create disputes|cause disputes|trigger conflicts] years later.
How is an uncontested divorce different from a contested divorce?
An uncontested divorce is [one where|a case in which|a divorce in which] spouses agree on every term and submit a joint settlement to the court. A contested divorce is [one where|a case where|a divorce in which] the spouses [disagree on at least one issue|cannot agree on one or more issues|are in dispute over at least one matter] — such as custody, property, or support — and the court must [intervene|step in|decide]. Uncontested divorces in Texas [typically finalize|usually wrap up|generally conclude] in 61 to 90 days. Contested divorces [commonly take|often last|usually run] 6 to 12 months or longer.
Eligibility and Requirements
What are the residency requirements to file for divorce in Port Arthur, TX?
Under Texas Family Code § 6.301, at least one spouse must have [lived in Texas|been a Texas resident|resided in Texas] for the past 6 continuous months and in the county where the case is filed for the past 90 days. [If you live in Port Arthur|For Port Arthur residents|If Port Arthur is your home], you would file in your county’s district court. Michael Piri can confirm whether you meet residency requirements during your free consultation.
Do I need grounds to file for an uncontested divorce in Texas?
[No|No, you don’t|Not at all]. Texas is a no-fault divorce state under Texas Family Code § 6.001. You can [file based on|cite|use] “insupportability,” meaning the marriage has [become insupportable|broken down|become untenable] due to discord or conflict and there is no [reasonable expectation of reconciliation|chance of reconciliation|hope of reconciling]. You [do not have to prove|aren’t required to prove|don’t need to demonstrate] wrongdoing by either spouse.
Can we get an uncontested divorce if we have children?
[Yes|Yes, absolutely|Yes, you can], but you and your spouse must agree on conservatorship (custody), possession and access (visitation), child support, medical and dental support, and any other parenting terms. The court will [only approve|only sign off on|only finalize] the agreement if it serves the best interests of the child. [Most Texas counties|The majority of Texas counties|Most counties in Texas] also require both parents to complete a court-approved parent education course before the divorce is finalized.
Can we file an uncontested divorce if one of us doesn’t live in Texas?
[Yes|Yes, you can|Absolutely] — only one spouse needs to meet the 6-month state and 90-day county residency requirements. The non-resident spouse can sign a Waiver of Service and [participate from another state|handle everything from out of state|complete the process remotely]. This is a [common scenario|frequent situation|familiar circumstance] Michael Piri handles for military families and clients whose spouses have relocated.
Do my spouse and I have to be physically separated to file?
[No|No, you don’t|Not at all]. Texas does not require any period of physical or legal separation before filing for divorce. You and your spouse can [still live in the same home|continue living together|remain in the same household] when the petition is filed and throughout the 60-day waiting period.
Timeline and Process
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Texas?
The [minimum timeline|shortest possible timeline|fastest possible timeline] is 61 days from the filing date, due to the mandatory 60-day waiting period under Texas Family Code § 6.702. [In practice|Realistically|In most real-world cases], most uncontested divorces in Port Arthur [finalize within|are completed in|wrap up in] 2 to 4 months, depending on court availability, paperwork complexity, and how quickly both spouses sign the required documents.
What is the 60-day waiting period, and can it be waived?
The 60-day waiting period is a [mandatory|required|state-mandated] “cooling-off” period that begins the day after the Original Petition for Divorce is filed. A judge [cannot sign|is not allowed to sign|may not sign] your Final Decree of Divorce before the 61st day, even if both spouses are in full agreement. The [only exceptions are|sole exceptions involve|exceptions are limited to] cases involving documented family violence convictions or active protective orders against the other spouse.
What are the steps in a Texas uncontested divorce?
The five [main|primary|key] steps are:
- File the Original Petition for Divorce with the district clerk in your county.
- Serve the other spouse or have them sign a Waiver of Service.
- Wait the mandatory 60 days while finalizing the settlement agreement.
- Prepare the Final Decree of Divorce and any related documents (such as a QDRO for retirement accounts).
- Attend the prove-up hearing, where a judge reviews the paperwork and signs the decree.
Do I have to go to court for an uncontested divorce?
[In most cases|Typically|Usually], at least one spouse must appear before the judge for a brief “prove-up” hearing, which [usually lasts|typically takes|generally runs] 10 to 15 minutes. [Many|Several|A growing number of] Texas counties now allow virtual appearances by Zoom, and some courts permit the entire prove-up to be handled by affidavit so neither spouse has to appear in person. Michael Piri will advise you on what your specific Port Arthur-area court requires.
What is a “prove-up” hearing?
A prove-up hearing is the [short, final court appearance|brief final hearing|short concluding court appearance] where the judge reviews your divorce paperwork, asks a few standard questions to confirm that you meet residency requirements and that the agreement is voluntary, and then signs the Final Decree of Divorce. [Once the judge signs|As soon as the judge signs the decree|After the judge’s signature], your divorce is [legally final|officially finalized|legally complete].
Costs and Fees
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Port Arthur, TX?
[Total costs typically range|Costs generally range|The full cost usually falls between] from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on complexity. Court filing fees in Texas [generally range|usually range|typically run] from $250 to $400 depending on the county. Attorney fees are added on top of that. The Piri Law Firm [works on a flat-fee basis|charges flat fees|offers flat-fee pricing] for many family law matters, with payment plans available — so you know the cost upfront.
Does The Piri Law Firm offer flat fees for uncontested divorce?
[Yes|Yes, we do|Absolutely]. Michael Piri’s firm works on flat-fee pricing for many family law cases, and payments can be made over time. Flat fees [give you predictable costs|provide cost predictability|offer pricing transparency] and remove the worry of an hourly billing meter running every time you call your attorney. Specific pricing depends on whether children are involved, the complexity of property division, and other factors discussed during the free consultation.
Can I file for divorce in Texas if I can’t afford the filing fee?
[Yes|Yes, you can|You can]. If you have a low income or receive certain government benefits, you can file a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs (commonly called a fee waiver) with the district clerk. If approved, the court [will waive|waives|drops] your filing fees. Michael Piri can help determine whether you qualify.
Do I save money by filing without an attorney?
[You may save|You might save|It’s possible to save] on attorney fees upfront, but DIY divorces [often cost more|frequently cost more|tend to cost more] in the long run. [Common pitfalls include|Frequent issues include|Typical problems are] incorrectly worded property division clauses that can’t be enforced, missed retirement account orders (QDROs), unclear custody language that leads to future litigation, and decrees rejected by the judge — which forces you to start over. [Hiring an experienced uncontested divorce attorney|Working with an experienced divorce attorney|Retaining a qualified attorney] [protects what you’ve built|safeguards your assets|protects your interests].
Property, Debt, and Children
How is property divided in a Texas uncontested divorce?
Texas is a community property state. Under the Texas Family Code, all property acquired during the marriage is presumed to be community property and is divided in a manner the court considers “just and right” — [which is not always a 50/50 split|not necessarily an even split|which doesn’t always mean an equal division]. In an uncontested divorce, [you and your spouse decide|you and your spouse work out|the spouses determine] how to divide assets and debts [yourselves|on your own|between yourselves], and the court approves your agreement as long as it is reasonable.
What is “separate property” in Texas?
Separate property is property that [one spouse owned before the marriage|a spouse already owned before getting married|either spouse owned prior to the marriage], or received during the marriage by gift, devise, or descent (such as an inheritance), or received as compensation for personal injury (excluding lost earnings). Separate property is not divided in a divorce, but you must be able to [clearly trace and document it|trace and prove it|properly document it].
How is child custody decided in an uncontested divorce?
In Texas, custody is called “conservatorship.” Most uncontested divorces [result in|conclude with|end with] Joint Managing Conservatorship, where both parents share rights and duties. You and your spouse will [agree on|decide on|work out] a Standard Possession Order (or a customized schedule), the child’s primary residence, decision-making authority, and child support. The judge will only approve the agreement if it serves the best interests of the child.
How is child support calculated in Texas?
Child support in Texas is set by statutory guidelines based on the paying parent’s net monthly resources. [As a general rule|Generally speaking|As a baseline], the obligor pays 20% for one child, 25% for two, 30% for three, 35% for four, and 40% for five or more, with adjustments for additional children and high-income earners. Michael Piri will run the actual numbers based on your situation.
Can spousal support (alimony) be included in an uncontested divorce?
[Yes|Yes, it can|Absolutely]. Texas allows two types: court-ordered spousal maintenance (which has strict eligibility requirements) and contractual alimony (agreed upon by both spouses and written into the decree). In uncontested cases, contractual alimony is more common because [the spouses negotiate|both parties negotiate|the couple decides on] the amount and duration directly.
Special Situations
Can immigrants file for an uncontested divorce in Port Arthur, TX?
[Yes|Yes, they can|Absolutely]. Immigration status does not affect your right to file for divorce in Texas. [However|That said|Keep in mind], divorce can have serious immigration consequences — particularly for green card holders whose status depends on the marriage. Michael Piri’s background in both family law and immigration law [makes The Piri Law Firm uniquely positioned|uniquely qualifies the firm|positions The Piri Law Firm well] to advise immigrant clients on how a divorce may affect their status. The firm offers Spanish-language services.
Do you handle same-sex uncontested divorces?
[Yes|Yes, we do|Absolutely]. Michael Piri represents clients in same-sex divorces in Texas. The legal process is the same as for opposite-sex marriages, though some same-sex couples [face unique issues|encounter specific challenges|deal with particular complications] involving the legal recognition of their marriage’s start date, parentage, or pre-marital cohabitation that may affect property division.
What if my spouse is in the military?
Military divorces have additional considerations, including the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA), and rules for dividing military retirement and benefits. Michael Piri handles military divorces and can [ensure|make sure|verify that] your decree complies with all federal requirements.
Can we still do an uncontested divorce if there is a history of domestic violence?
You can — but you should speak with an attorney first. Texas waives the 60-day waiting period in cases involving documented family violence. You may also be eligible for a protective order. Your safety is the priority, and an attorney can help you [navigate the process|move through the process|handle the process] while protecting your legal rights.
What if my spouse won’t sign the divorce papers?
If your spouse refuses to sign a Waiver of Service or otherwise participate, you can still [proceed by formally serving them|move forward by formally serving them|continue by having them formally served] and, if they fail to respond, requesting a default judgment. [At that point|Technically|At this stage], the divorce is no longer “uncontested,” but it can still be [relatively straightforward|fairly simple|reasonably manageable]. Michael Piri can advise on the best path forward.
Working With Michael Piri
What areas does The Piri Law Firm serve?
The Piri Law Firm represents clients throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, including Port Arthur and the surrounding counties. The firm handles family law, immigration, criminal defense, and personal injury cases.
Does Michael Piri offer a free consultation?
[Yes|Yes, he does|Absolutely]. The Piri Law Firm offers a free 30-minute consultation. You can call (833) 600-0029 to schedule, or submit a request through michaelpiri.com.
Does the firm offer Spanish-language services?
[Yes|Yes, absolutely|Yes, we do]. Michael Piri and his team [provide services in Spanish|offer Spanish-language services|are fluent in Spanish], and the firm has extensive experience working with Hispanic and Latino families across Port Arthur and the DFW area.
What should I bring to my free consultation?
To [make the most of|get the most out of|maximize] your 30-minute consultation, gather:
- A list of all marital assets and debts (accounts, balances, vehicles, real estate)
- Recent pay stubs or income documentation for both spouses
- Information about any retirement or pension accounts
- Children’s information (names, ages, current school, current arrangement)
- Any existing agreements you and your spouse have already discussed
- Marriage certificate and prenuptial or postnuptial agreement, if any
How do I get started with my uncontested divorce?
Call The Piri Law Firm at (833) 600-0029 or visit michaelpiri.com to [schedule your free 30-minute consultation|book your free consultation|set up your free consultation]. Michael Piri will [review your situation|go over your situation|assess your case], explain your options, quote a flat fee, and outline a [realistic timeline|practical timeline|clear timeline] for finalizing your divorce in Port Arthur, TX.
Contact The Piri Law Firm
Phone: (833) 600-0029 Website: michaelpiri.com Free Consultation: 30 minutes, no obligation Languages: English and Spanish Practice Areas: Uncontested Divorce, Contested Divorce, Child Custody, Spousal Support, Property Division, Military Divorce, Same-Sex Divorce, Legal Separation, Immigration, Criminal Defense, Personal Injury
Disclaimer: This FAQ is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this page does not create an attorney-client relationship with Michael Piri or The Piri Law Firm. For advice specific to your situation, schedule a consultation with a licensed Texas attorney.