If you’re facing the prospect of divorce in Denton, Texas, it’s natural to have concerns, especially regarding your financial stability. While your children are undoubtedly a top priority, the financial aspects of divorce can weigh heavily on your mind.
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
While movies, television, and anecdotal advice can provide some insights into spousal maintenance, it’s best to consult an experienced family law attorney for personalized guidance. The attorneys at the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC, are dedicated to serving clients in Denton, Texas, and surrounding areas. We offer free consultations, and our licensed family law attorneys are available six days a week. Contact us to address your concerns and get the information you need to navigate your divorce successfully in Denton.
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Bryan Fagan, a native of Atascocita, Texas, is a dedicated family law attorney inspired by John Grisham’s “The Pelican Brief.” He is the first lawyer in his family, which includes two adopted brothers. Bryan’s commitment to family is personal and professional; he cared for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s while completing his degree and attended the South Texas College of Law at night.
Married with three children, Bryan’s personal experiences enrich his understanding of family dynamics, which is central to his legal practice. He specializes in family law, offering innovative and efficient legal services. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, Bryan is part of an elite group of legal professionals committed to ongoing education and high-level expertise.
His legal practice covers divorce, custody disputes, property disputes, adoption, paternity, and mediation. Bryan is also experienced in drafting marital property agreements. He leads a team dedicated to complex family law cases and protecting families from false CPS allegations.
Based in Houston, Bryan is active in the Houston Family Law Sector of the Houston Bar Association and various family law groups in Texas. His deep understanding of family values and his professional dedication make him a compassionate advocate for families navigating Texas family law.