Spousal support in Texas: securing financial stability after divorce.
Spousal support, also known as spousal maintenance, may be awarded to help a spouse meet their reasonable financial needs after a divorce. Whether you are seeking support or being asked to pay it, the outcome can significantly impact your financial future.
Our firm represents clients across Frisco, Collin County, Denton County, and North Texas in spousal support matters, providing strategic guidance tailored to each client’s circumstances.
Understanding spousal maintenance in Texas.
Texas law sets specific requirements for awarding spousal maintenance. Courts consider factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning ability, financial resources, and contributions during the marriage.
Not every case qualifies for spousal support. We help clients understand whether they may be eligible to receive maintenance or what obligations they may face.
Factors that influence spousal support decisions.
When determining whether to award spousal support, courts evaluate a range of factors, including employment history, education, health, and the ability to become self-supporting.
The court may also consider instances of family violence, as well as each spouse’s role in the marriage, including contributions as a homemaker or caregiver.
We build strong, evidence-based arguments to support fair and appropriate outcomes based on these factors.
Negotiating and structuring support agreements.
Spousal support can often be negotiated as part of a broader divorce settlement. Structuring these agreements carefully is essential to avoid future disputes and ensure long-term financial clarity.
We work with clients to negotiate support terms that are practical, sustainable, and aligned with their financial goals, whether through settlement or litigation.
Modifying or enforcing spousal support orders.
In some cases, spousal support orders may be modified due to changes in financial circumstances. Enforcement actions may also be necessary if a party fails to comply with a court-ordered obligation.
Our firm represents clients in both modification and enforcement matters, ensuring their rights and financial interests are protected.
Experienced representation for complex financial matters.
Spousal support cases often intersect with property division, income analysis, and long-term financial planning. Having experienced legal counsel is critical to achieving the right outcome.
We provide clear guidance, responsive communication, and strategic advocacy designed to protect your financial future and position you for the next chapter.
Quick Answers
Common questions, answered
Does Texas have alimony?
Texas uses the term spousal maintenance for court-ordered support after divorce, and it is limited. The spouse asking for it must lack enough property to meet minimum reasonable needs and meet a condition such as a marriage of 10 years or more with an inability to earn enough income, a family violence conviction or deferred adjudication against the other spouse, or a qualifying disability. Spouses can also agree to contractual alimony in a settlement.
How long does spousal maintenance last in Texas?
In most cases it is capped at 5 years for a marriage of 10 to 20 years, or under 10 years when based on family violence, 7 years for 20 to 30 years, and 10 years for 30 years or more. Courts must order the shortest reasonable period. When a disability is the basis, it can continue as long as the spouse still qualifies.
How much spousal maintenance can a Texas court order?
A court cannot order more than $5,000 per month or 20 percent of the paying spouse's average monthly gross income, whichever is less. Agreed contractual alimony is not bound by that limit.
