Understanding Spousal Support In Texas
In Texas, spousal support or alimony can be one of the most debated aspects of a divorce. Often, there is a substantial discrepancy between what you think you are entitled to receive or pay, and what is actually required under Texas law.
At Teller Law Firm, P.C., our Grapevine spousal maintenance attorneys can provide you with legal guidance and advice regarding contentious financial issues during your divorce. They will advocate for your best interests and protect your rights under the Texas alimony laws.
Is It Possible To Get Temporary Spousal Support During The Divorce Process?
One of the most stressful aspects of the divorce process is not knowing how the financial details will work out. We also understand the financial challenges that arise during a divorce as details are being worked out. If you are worried about finances, temporary spousal maintenance can help you maintain a standard of living while your divorce case is ongoing.
This temporary support can cover essential expenses such as housing, food and utilities until your divorce is finalized. Temporary spousal support is not guaranteed and depends on various factors, including your financial needs and your spouse’s ability to pay. However, our experienced divorce attorneys can assess your situation and advocate for your interests in seeking temporary support if it is appropriate for your case.
Securing Fair And Accurate Spousal Support
The goal of spousal maintenance in Texas is to provide temporary support to help the receiving spouse become self-supporting, rather than to provide indefinite financial support. Unlike some states, Texas doesn’t have strict guidelines for determining spousal support, also known as spousal maintenance. Instead, judges consider several factors when deciding whether to award financial support and how much to grant. These factors include:
- The length of your marriage
- Your ability to provide for your basic needs
- Your education and employment skills
- The time needed to acquire education or training for suitable employment
- Your contributions to the marriage, including as a homemaker
- Your age, health and earning ability
- Any history of domestic violence
At Teller Law Firm, P.C., our experienced lawyers have handled numerous complex divorce cases involving spousal support issues. We can help you understand how these factors might apply to your situation and work to ensure the court considers all relevant information. Whether you are seeking support or defending against a support claim, we’ll guide you through the process and advocate for a fair outcome based on your unique circumstances.
Does Texas Limit The Length Of Time For Spousal Maintenance Payments?
The duration of spousal maintenance in Texas is determined by the length of the marriage and other factors. According to Texas law, the maximum duration for spousal maintenance payments is as follows:
- For marriages lasting 10 to 20 years: Up to five years of maintenance
- For marriages lasting 20 to 30 years: Up to seven years of maintenance
- For marriages lasting 30 years or more: Up to 10 years of maintenance
While these are maximum durations, the court has the discretion to award shorter periods of maintenance based on the specific circumstances of each case. There are exceptions to these limits in cases involving disability or other special circumstances. For example, if a spouse is unable to work due to a disability, the court may order maintenance for as long as the disability continues.
Contact A Grapevine Spousal Support Lawyer Today
Whether you are the spouse who will receive support or who will pay, it is important to seek qualified counsel early in the process, particularly if you or your spouse is a high-wage earner. As an MBA holder, attorney Teller is adept at interpreting financial documents that are necessarily part of legal agreements involving spousal support (also known as alimony in other states).
To schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers, you can call us at 817-612-4298 or send us a message through our website. We look forward to answering your questions and helping you ease the anxiety that you might have about your divorce and future.