Commerce, TX Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

You do not have to leave your house after the initial divorce petition has been filed. However, there should be a temporary orders hearing within a few days of the filing that determines these types of issues. Because Texas is a community property state you are entitled to half of everything that has been earned by either party outside of a gift, inheritance, or a personal injury settlement. I would advise you to contact a local family lawyer very quickly to properly protect your interests in this case.

You do not have to be in agreement to obtain a divorce. However, due to the contested nature of the divorce proceedings, you should be prepared for the divorce to be more expensive than one that is agreed. If you have children, then you need to hire an attorney. I do not suggest you try and represent yourself in a contested divorce with children. If you do not have children, you might be able to do some of the initial paperwork on your own. However, I would still seek out an attorney for some basic advice to get you on the right track and (if your matter remains contested) you will need to hire representation for your final trial. 

No, an inheritance is separate property. If you use the money for the purchase of something else that both of you will use and enjoy (like a house), then it becomes quasi-community (or partially community) property.