What to Know About Alimony in Texas

 Posted on November 21, 2022 in Alimony

It is well known that divorce is a challenging and complex process rife with tension, anger, and sadness. Alimony, also known as spousal support, is an especially contentious subject in many divorce cases. If you are pursuing a divorce, consult with a Texas divorce attorney to ensure your rights remain protected throughout the process and that the settlement you eventually reach with your spouse is as reasonable and fair as possible. 

Determining Alimony in Texas

In Texas, alimony is spousal support that is court-ordered, and that one party pays to their spouse if they get divorced. In the state of Texas, there are three primary forms of alimony. The first is temporary spousal support for when the divorce has yet to be completed. The next is contractual alimony, which you and your spouse figure out outside the court. The third type of alimony in Texas is court-appointed spousal maintenance after the finalized divorce. Typically, the court determines which party is required to compensate their spouse with alimony and will determine the amount that must be paid.

There are many factors that must be taken into consideration when figuring out alimony. These factors include:

• The financial condition of each spouse

• Each spouse’s wage-earning potential 

• The living standard established during the marriage 

• How long the marriage lasted 

• If there is any history of damaging marital conduct, such as a history of domestic abuse or monetary wrongdoing

Length of Alimony in Texas

 Several factors must be considered in Texas when figuring out how long alimony will last. Depending on the situation, alimony may last for:

• If divorced occurred within 10 years of marriage, alimony payments may be required for up to five years

• If the divorce occurred within 20-30 years of marriage, alimony payments may be required for up to seven years 

• If the marriage lasted 30 years or more, alimony payments may be required for up to 10 years or more

• If the asking spouse is disabled, alimony payments may be paid indefinitely

Contact a Dallas Alimony Divorce Attorney

If you are currently getting divorced or seeking a divorce, you may feel overwhelmed by all the particulars that need to be figured out. During this difficult time, know that help is out there and you are not alone. To ensure your rights are protected, and your best interests are always kept in mind, contact the experienced Fort Worth alimony divorce lawyers with Clark Law Group. Call 469-906-2266 for a comprehensive consultation.

Source: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.8.htm#B