Skip to content 
When considering divorce in Denton, Texas, it’s natural to have concerns about your financial security, including issues like spousal maintenance. While ensuring your children’s well-being is a top priority, it’s equally important to address the financial implications of divorce. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we recognize the complexity of these challenges and are dedicated to providing thorough support. Our team is committed to protecting both your children’s needs and your financial future during this transition.
To alleviate your worries and navigate the process effectively, you have two valuable options:
First, educate Yourself on Texas Divorce Law. Understanding the legal framework specific to Texas is crucial, as it directly impacts your divorce. Second, seek Guidance from an Experienced Family Law Attorney. Hiring a skilled family law attorney can help you apply the law to your advantage and protect your interests.
Let’s address one significant concern that many individuals have when it comes to divorce: spousal maintenance, often referred to as alimony. Is it easy for a spouse to request court-ordered spousal maintenance? Moreover, under what circumstances is it awarded, and how much might you be required to pay?
Is Concerning Paying Spousal Maintenance Justified?
Texas law does not make it straightforward for one spouse to receive spousal maintenance after divorce. In fact, it can be challenging to qualify for such support. Generally, the primary breadwinner in the family expresses concern about this issue, especially when the other spouse has been a homemaker or stayed home to raise children.
The reality is that, in most cases, you are unlikely to be ordered to pay spousal maintenance upon divorce. However, some circumstances can make it a possibility.
When Might Spousal Maintenance be Awarded in Denton, Texas?
To consider awarding spousal maintenance, the court will first assess whether your ex-spouse lacks the financial means to meet their basic needs. The court will determine the minimum reasonable needs required for food, shelter, and clothing.
Factors that come into play include your ex-spouse’s capacity to earn an income and their monthly expenses. Since this assessment depends on specific facts, your friends’ experiences may not be directly applicable to your situation.
Additionally, spousal maintenance may be considered if your ex-spouse:
– Has a disability (mental or physical) preventing them from earning an income.
– Will be the primary caregiver for a disabled child, whose care requirements exceed those of a child without disabilities.
How Long is Spousal Maintenance Paid?
While you may worry about making lifelong spousal maintenance payments, Texas law sets limits. The duration of spousal maintenance depends on the length of your marriage:
– For marriages lasting at least ten years but less than 20 years, the maximum duration is five years.
– For marriages between 20 and 30 years, the cap is seven years.
– Marriages lasting 30 years or more have a ten-year limit for spousal maintenance.
However, judges do not have to award the maximum duration. They should aim to limit support to the minimum time needed for your ex-spouse to achieve self-sufficiency.
In terms of financial specifics, a judge cannot order spousal maintenance exceeding $5,000 per month or 20% of your average gross monthly income.
Consult with a Denton Family Law Attorney
In conclusion, navigating a divorce in Denton, Texas, involves balancing your concerns about financial security and the well-being of your children, including matters like spousal maintenance. Ensuring that your financial future is protected while addressing your children’s needs requires careful consideration and expert guidance. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we are here to support you through this challenging time, offering comprehensive legal assistance to safeguard both your financial interests and your family’s future.
While movies, television, and anecdotal advice can offer glimpses into spousal maintenance, seeking guidance from an experienced family law attorney is paramount for tailored advice. At the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, we are committed to assisting clients in Denton, Texas, and nearby areas. We provide complimentary consultations, and our licensed family law attorneys are available six days a week to address your concerns. Reach out to us for the information you need to navigate your divorce successfully in Denton.
Ebook
![Adobe Stock 62844981[2]](/?seraph_accel_gi=wp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F09%2FAdobeStock_628449812.jpeg&n=a3PK2HcKcL5sbjTfQ34Iw)
If you want to know more about what you can do, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book: “16 Steps to Help You Plan & Prepare for Your Texas Divorce”
![Divorce Wasting Assets[4]](/?seraph_accel_gi=wp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F09%2FDivorce-wasting-assets4.jpeg&n=0TAaIlPpzb4QWRK62HCR4g)
If you want to know more about how to prepare, CLICK the button below to get your FREE E-book: “13 Dirty Tricks to Watch Out For in Your Texas Divorce, and How to Counter Them” Today!”
Other Articles you may be interested in:
- What impact did the legislative changes of 2021 have on spousal maintenance in Texas?
- Supporting Disabled Spouses: A Guide to Spousal Maintenance in Texas
- Assessing Spousal Maintenance Guidelines in Texas
- Spousal Maintenance in a Texas Divorce: Should I be worried?
- Spousal Maintenance in a Texas Divorce: Court Ordered Maintenance
- Know How to Determine Whether Alimony will be Owed and for How Long, When Preparing for Your Texas Divorce
- 3 Important Facts about Texas Alimony and Spousal Support
- Alimony or Spousal Support and a Disabled Spouse in Harris and Montgomery Counties in Texas
- Spousal Support, Spousal Maintenance, and Alimony in Spring and Houston Texas and when is it available?Spousal Support Availability in a Texas Divorce
- Military Support Without a Court Order During a Divorce in Texas
- Certain behaviors may indicate a spouse is hiding assets
