Experienced and Dedicated Houston Spousal Support Attorney
If you were in a marriage in Texas that lasted more than 10 years, and you were the lower-earning partner in the couple, you may be entitled to ask for spousal support as part of the divorce agreement. The court considers many factors to determine spousal support. Houston spousal support attorney Ieshia Champs of Champs Law Firm PLLC helps clients understand how spousal support is determined. She is an experienced, empathetic family law attorney committed to advocating for your financial rights and well-being.
How Is Spousal Support Determined In Houston?
In Houston, alimony, which is another term for spousal support, is not automatically granted. The lower earning spouse must demonstrate an inability to adequately support themselves post-divorce to be eligible for spousal support. The court considers several factors to determine if spousal support is appropriate, including:
- The duration of the marriage
- Each spouse’s financial needs and resources
- Each spouse’s total contribution (paid and unpaid) to the household
- The education and employment skills of each spouse
- If the person requesting spousal support is disabled or is the caretaker of a disabled child
- Any history of domestic violence in the marriage
The length of time you may be paid spousal support will depend in part on the length of your marriage. Spousal support in a marriage lasting between 10 and 20 years can be paid for up to five years; if the marriage lasted more than 20 years but less than 30 years, it can be paid for up to seven years; if the marriage continued for more than 30 years, it can be paid for up to 10 years.
Attorney Champs can help you document your contributions to your marriage and build a solid case for your spousal support claims.
What Is The Process For Obtaining Spousal Support In Texas?
The process of obtaining spousal support in Texas involves several legal steps. Initially, a petition for spousal support must be filed as part of the divorce proceedings. The requesting spouse must then provide evidence supporting their claim for fair financial support. This includes detailed financial disclosures and, potentially, testimonies regarding their financial and personal circumstances.
The court will review this evidence, considering Texas law, to make a decision. Legal representation during this process is crucial, as a skilled attorney can effectively present your case and answer any questions you may have.
Another avenue for obtaining spousal support in Texas is for the divorcing spouses to reach an agreement by mediation or negotiation that one partner will pay the other spousal support for an agreed-upon time period. Negotiated agreements allow for greater creativity in support agreements and other aspects of a divorce.
You Have Spousal Support Questions – Attorney Champs Has Answers
At Champs Law Firm PLLC, no question about alimony in Texas is too small when it concerns your peace of mind and financial stability.
To learn more about the legal issues of divorce and separation in Texas, call the firm’s office in Houston at 844-385-7968 or send an online message. The firm works with clients in the greater Houston metro area and across Harris County.