A formalized legal instrument issued by a Texas court finalizing the dissolution of a marriage. It outlines the specific terms agreed upon by both parties or ordered by the court, encompassing aspects such as property division, child custody arrangements, child support obligations, and spousal maintenance, if applicable. A hypothetical instance would be a document detailing the division of marital assets, including real estate and financial accounts, alongside a schedule for parental visitation and the associated financial support responsibilities.
This judicial order holds significant weight as it represents the legally binding conclusion of the marital relationship. Its meticulous specification of responsibilities and entitlements provides clarity and structure, reducing the potential for future disputes. Historically, the evolution of these documents reflects changes in societal norms regarding marriage, divorce, and family law, adapting to address the complexities of modern relationships and ensuring fairness and protection for all involved parties, particularly children.