Gavel Insight

Understanding the End of Financial Support After Divorce in Texas Navigating the complexities of divorce is challenging enough, but for many, the financial ties don't always end when the divorce decree is signed. Post-divorce financial support, often referred to as alimony, can be a significant part of a former spouse's financial landscape. In Texas, this support is legally known as "spousal maintenance" when it's court-ordered, and "contractual alimony" when it's based on a private agreement. Understanding when and how these payments can end is crucial for both the paying and receiving party. This article will delve into the legal framework in Texas governing the termination of post-divorce financial support, focusing primarily on court-ordered spousal maintenance, but also touching upon the critical differences with contractual alimony. What is Spousal Maintenance in Texas? In Texas, court-ordered spousal maintenance is not automatically gran...

Understanding Post-Divorce Alimony in Texas ❗ Texas has strict alimony laws: Unlike other states, Texas limits spousal maintenance (alimony) to specific circumstances. Courts only award it when the requesting spouse meets certain legal requirements. ⚖️ Qualifying for Alimony in Texas: A spouse may receive maintenance if they lack sufficient income for basic needs and: - The marriage lasted at least 10 years. - The receiving spouse has a physical or mental disability. - The spouse cares for a disabled child requiring full-time attention. - The paying spouse has a history of family violence within the last two years of the divorce filing. ⏳ Duration Limits: Texas law caps alimony payments as follows: - Up to 5 years if the marriage lasted 10–20 years. - Up to 7 years for marriages of 20–30 years. - A maximum of 10 years if married over 30 years. 💰 Payment Caps: Spousal maintenance cannot exceed $5,000 per month or 20% of the payer’s gross monthly income, whichever is lower. Strategies t...