Texas Divorce Lawyers Handling Challenging Spousal Maintenance Cases
Texas is unique in its alimony laws. In 1995, the state joined the union in passing laws for those in need of spousal support. Stringent requirements made alimony more of an exception and not a rule. Legalization created to change the law are continuously introduced and usually denied. New laws are about to take place, requiring our lawyers to stay on the cutting edge.
The Unique Qualifications in Texas to for Spouses to Receive Alimony
The current requirements for alimony — also known as spousal maintenance — include:
- A spouse committing and being convicted of a crime of family violence two years prior to the divorce filing or during the process
- A marriage lasting 10 or more years where one spouse does not possess the resources to meet the minimum living requirements
- An inability to support oneself due to physical or mental disabilities
- A parent of a child with physical or mental disabilities
- An inability to earn a living to support minimum needs
Applications that fail to meet those stringent requirements are usually rejected. However, more criteria exist to secure the spousal maintenance you deserve. The following are considerations:
- Health
- Financial resources
- Job skills and earning capability
- Educational background
- Openness to additional education, training and employment counseling
- Length of marriage
- A spouse hiding community property or dishonesty of a spouse during the marriage
Ten or more years of marriage and instances of family violence most often result in the awarding of spousal maintenance. To equalize property division, some spouses enter into a contract for spousal maintenance.
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We welcome your call to schedule a meeting with one of our skilled Lewisville family law attorneys. Call 972-436-8000 or contact us online. All calls and messages are returned promptly.
