Compassionate and Experienced Texas Spousal Support Attorneys
Navigating spousal support can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Johnson McNulty, our experienced spousal support attorneys are dedicated to providing expert guidance throughout the divorce process. With a deep understanding of Texas family law, we provide strategic legal counsel tailored to your unique situation.
Whether you are pursuing alimony or challenging an unreasonable claim, we are dedicated to protecting your financial security and safeguarding your future.
Understanding Spousal Support in Texas
Texas courts award spousal support based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, financial need, and earning capacity of both spouses.
Unlike some other states, Texas has strict guidelines for granting alimony, making it essential to have an experienced Texas spousal support attorney by your side.
Types of Alimony in Texas
Texas recognizes different forms of alimony, depending on the circumstances of the divorce case:
- Temporary Spousal Support: Awarded during the divorce process to help a lower-earning spouse maintain financial stability until the final settlement.
- Contractual Alimony: A voluntary agreement between spouses where one agrees to pay the other support beyond what Texas law mandates.
- Court-Ordered Spousal Maintenance: Granted by the court when specific conditions are met, such as a marriage lasting at least ten years and the recipient proving they lack the means for self-support.
- Rehabilitative Alimony: Designed to help a spouse gain education or job training to become financially independent.
Factors That Affect Spousal Support
Texas courts assess various factors when deciding spousal support eligibility and amounts, recognizing that every case is unique. The following considerations are key in shaping the court’s decision:
1. Length of the Marriage
The duration of the marriage is one of the most important factors. In Texas, a marriage lasting at least ten years is generally required for court-ordered spousal maintenance unless there are extenuating circumstances such as domestic violence or disability.
2. Financial Resources and Earning Capacity
The court examines the financial situation of both spouses, including income, assets, and future earning potential. If one spouse lacks sufficient income or job prospects, they may be awarded support to help them regain financial stability. This is especially relevant in high-net-worth and complex property division cases, where substantial assets and investments are involved.
3. Contributions to the Marriage
A spouse’s contributions—whether financial or non-financial—are also considered. This includes career sacrifices, homemaking, and supporting the other spouse’s education or business endeavors. If one spouse gave up their career to raise children, this could justify a spousal support award.
4. Health and Age of Each Spouse
If one spouse is in poor health or at an age where securing employment would be difficult, the court may order financial assistance. On the other hand, a younger, healthy spouse with marketable skills may be expected to seek employment and become self-sufficient.
5. Child Custody Responsibilities
If the recipient spouse has primary custody of young children, their ability to work and support themselves may be limited. This can influence the amount and duration of spousal support, particularly if child-rearing responsibilities prevent them from working full-time.
6. Marital Misconduct and Family Violence
While Texas is a no-fault divorce state—meaning neither spouse has to prove wrongdoing to get a divorce—courts may consider acts of domestic violence or financial misconduct when determining spousal support. If the paying spouse has a history of family violence, the court may be more inclined to grant support to the affected spouse.
Modifying or Enforcing Spousal Support Orders
Alimony orders are not always set in stone. If circumstances change, you may need to seek a modification or enforcement of an existing order.
Whether you’re facing financial hardship or a former spouse is failing to comply with payments, our Texas divorce attorneys will fight for your rights.
If children are involved, spousal support often intersects with child custody and child support matters. We can help you navigate these complexities.
Explore our child custody services
How We Can Help
Our legal team at Johnson McNulty provides personalized representation to ensure you receive fair treatment in alimony negotiations. Whether you are the paying or receiving spouse, we advocate for your best interests by:
- Assessing eligibility for spousal support
- Negotiating fair support agreements
- Challenging or modifying existing alimony orders
- Representing you in court if necessary
Our team of expert family law attorneys has years of experience handling alimony cases and can provide you with the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
Why Choose Johnson McNulty for Your Alimony Cases
When dealing with sensitive family law matters, you need a legal team that combines experience, compassion, and a results-driven approach. Here’s why our clients trust us with their spousal support cases:
Dedicated Family Law Specialists
As a boutique law firm, we devote our full attention to family law cases. This specialization means we stay up-to-date on the latest Texas spousal support laws and court trends, providing you with an advantage in your case.
Client-Centered Approach
We know that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your concerns, evaluate your financial situation, and develop a strategy tailored to your needs. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome while minimizing stress and conflict during the process.
Aggressive Advocacy in Court and Negotiations
Whether negotiating a fair settlement or representing you in court, our firm is dedicated to fighting for your rights. If your spouse is unfairly demanding excessive alimony or trying to avoid their financial obligations, we will present compelling arguments backed by solid legal and financial evidence.
Transparent and Honest Legal Guidance
We believe in honesty and transparency with our clients. You will always receive clear explanations of your legal options, expected outcomes, and any potential challenges. Our family law attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you make informed decisions about your future.
Schedule a Consultation Today
At Johnson McNulty, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome in your spousal support case. Whether you are negotiating alimony during a divorce or seeking modifications to an existing order, we stand with you as a champion for justice—guiding you through every step with purpose and determination.
Take the first step toward protecting your financial future.
