Determining Spousal Support In Texas
Spousal support, commonly known as alimony or spousal maintenance, is a way for someone who was financially dependant on their spouse to continue to receive monetary support after the couple gets divorced. Whether one spouse is entitled to spousal support is a common source of strife in divorce, but with the proper guidance from a trusted family law attorney, you will reach a practical and sustainable outcome.
Balekian Hayes, PLLC, practices family law exclusively. Both of our attorneys are certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Our clients in the Dallas area know they can count on our honest advice and skill at negotiation and litigation to resolve their divorce efficiently and with their needs as our top priority. We can help you whether you need spousal support to make ends meet, or if your ex is asking for a level of support you cannot afford.
Texas’ Divorce And Spousal Support Law
In Texas, a spouse may request spousal support if the marriage lasted at least 10 years or if the other spouse was convicted of domestic violence within two years of the divorce filing. To be eligible, the spouse must show that they do not have the resources to meet their minimal reasonable needs, such as food and housing.
Factors judges consider when deciding whether to grant spousal support include:
- How long the marriage lasted
- The requesting spouse’s financial resources, education and employment skills
- The requesting spouse’s age and health
- The requesting spouse’s efforts to become financially independent
Texas law strictly limits spousal support to three years from the date the divorce decree is signed, unless the spouse receiving support has a disability that makes work impossible.
As your lawyers, we will work to ensure the spousal support in your case is at the level needed and lasts for a reasonable time, and that disagreements over support do not drag out your divorce longer than necessary.
Need More Information? Come Talk To Us.
Contact our Dallas office at 214-828-2800 to schedule a legal consultation about spousal support and other possible factors in your divorce.