Citation in a Texas divorce case follows the same rules as in general civil cases, governed by the Texas Family Code § 6.408 and the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure 99–124. Citation is the legal process of notifying the other party that a legal action has been filed against them, and it must be done according to strict procedural rules to ensure the court’s jurisdiction.
If the divorce involves a child, the citation must be served to several specific individuals, including any managing or possessory conservators, guardians, and anyone required by law to support the child. Additionally, the citation must be served to any alleged father unless he has waived his rights or otherwise been excluded under specific provisions of the Family Code.
Proper service of citation is critical because it establishes the court’s jurisdiction over the parties involved. Without proper service, any judgment rendered by the court could be challenged as invalid. For those navigating a divorce, understanding these citation rules is essential to ensure that the process proceeds without unnecessary delays or complications.