Spousal Support

Experienced Spousal Support Lawyer in Collin County

Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, can mean the difference between stability and financial ruin following a divorce. This is especially true for spouses who sacrificed their education or career to care for the household or raise children during the marriage.

As an experienced family law attorney, I have spent nearly 30 years helping clients in Collin County address spousal support concerns during divorce proceedings. With thorough knowledge of Texas spousal support laws and guidelines, I am able to offer the advice you need to understand the law and how they apply to your unique situation.

You Must Prove Your Case for Alimony

In most cases, the court will begin any divorce proceeding with the presumption that spousal support is not an appropriate measure. You must convince the court otherwise.

There are specific situations in which spousal support is often granted, including those involving:

• Income challenged spouses: If one spouse sacrifices their career or education to care for children or the household, they may struggle to obtain sufficient income following the divorce. If the couple is married for 10 years or more, the court may order spousal support to give the individual the opportunity to further their education, learn a new skill or seek viable employment.
• Violence or abuse: A history of domestic violence may be grounds for a spousal support order. If one spouse is convicted of family violence against the other spouse or a child, a judge may order spousal support.
• Disability or medical condition: If one spouse is unable to work due to disability or ongoing medical concerns, they may be eligible for spousal support. The court may order spousal support payments, with the payments to continue as long as the disability or medical condition prevents the individual from obtaining income.
• Special needs children: Custodial parents of special needs children are often unable to work full-time. Spousal support may be ordered to help the parent provide a stable and healthy lifestyle for the child. In cases involving special needs children, spousal support payments may last as long as the child needs assistance.

Support payments may cease if either spouse dies, or the spouse receiving support remarries or cohabitates with an individual with whom they are romantically involved.

Many Factors Play a Role in Spousal Support Considerations

Once spousal support has been deemed appropriate, the judge may review several factors when determining the amount and duration of payments. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The length of the marriage
• Income of each spouse
• Employability of each spouse
• Age and physical health of both spouses
• Child custody and support arrangements
• A history of violence or adultery during the marriage

After considering these issues, the judge will issue a ruling, which both parties must adhere to.

Call Today; I Am Here to Answer Your Spousal Support Questions

Spousal support in Texas is a complicated matter. I’m attorney Megan Rachel, and I am here to help you understand the laws, guidelines and factors considered by the courts, and how each applies to your unique situation. Contact me online or call 214-396-2048 to schedule a consultation today.