Alimony - Lighthouse Legal Services

Experienced Spousal Support Attorney in Texas | Lighthouse Legal Services

You're facing the intricate challenges of an impending divorce, and if children are involved you have their well-being to consider, making the emotional and financial stakes overwhelming. In Texas, alimony is called spousal support or sometimes spousal maintenance or just maintenance. The spousal support attorneys at Lighthouse Legal Services can help you secure a fair support agreement, allowing you to focus on your next chapter. We believe that every case is a personal story deserving of a dedicated attention to detail. Whether you're seeking spousal support payments or navigating the complexities from the other side, trust us to champion your case with unparalleled expertise and genuine empathy.

Specialized Expertise

Unlike general family law firms, we give a dedicated focus to spousal support, ensuring you get the best legal representation for your unique situation.

Personalized Service

Every spousal support (alimony) case is unique. We provide personalized legal services, understanding your specific needs and crafting a strategy that aligns with your goals.

Proven Track Record

Our success stories and client testimonials speak volumes about our commitment to excellence.

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The Landscape of Spousal Support in Texas

Texas has its unique set of rules and regulations when it comes to spousal support (alimony) laws. The state doesn't grant spousal support easily, making it that much more important to have a knowledgeable alimony attorney by your side. It’s important to approach spousal support (alimony) cases with objectivity in order to be prepared to discuss temporary spousal support during the divorce proceedings or address post-divorce spousal maintenance.

The Different Types of Spousal Support

Spousal support, also known as maintenance, spousal maintenance, or alimony, is financial support that one spouse may be ordered to pay to the other after a divorce or separation.

The purpose of spousal support is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a similar standard of living to what was experienced during the marriage, at least until they can become self-sufficient. The types of alimony/spousal support vary based on jurisdiction, but here are the most common types.

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Temporary Spousal Support (Temporary Alimony)

During the tumultuous divorce process, one spouse might find themselves in a financial bind. Temporary spousal maintenance steps in to bridge this gap, ensuring that the lower-earning spouse can maintain their standard of living until the legal proceedings conclude.

This temporary spousal support is particularly beneficial in cases where one spouse was primarily dependent on the other's income during the marriage. It offers a short-term financial cushion, allowing the recipient to address immediate needs while settling the details of the divorce case.

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Permanent Spousal Support

In long-term marriages, especially where one spouse has significantly sacrificed career opportunities for homemaking or child-rearing, permanent alimony / spousal maintenance is sought.

This type of alimony / maintenance acknowledges that, due to factors like age, health conditions, or prolonged absence from the job market, becoming financially self-reliant might be an uphill battle for one spouse. While the term "permanent" suggests an indefinite duration, significant life changes, like the recipient's remarriage or both parties' retirement, can lead to adjustments or termination of this support.

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What You Need to Know About Spousal Support in Texas

It's essential to note that the eligibility, amount, and duration of spousal support can vary significantly based on state laws, the length of the marriage, the financial situation of both parties, and other factors. Additionally, spousal support / alimony awards can often be modified or terminated based on changes in circumstances, such as the recipient's remarriage or cohabitation, or significant changes in the financial situations of either party.

The courts evaluate the earning capacity of each spouse, the education and job skills they possess, and even the time it would take for the receiving spouse to acquire necessary education or training for suitable employment. Additionally, the court will consider the age, employment history, emotional and physical health, and the contribution of each party as a homemaker.

Who is eligible for spousal support in Texas?

To be eligible, one must demonstrate financial need and show efforts towards becoming self-supporting. Factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, and any history of domestic violence are considered. It's also important to note that the spouse seeking maintenance should not have brought about the dissolution of the marriage through their misconduct or adultery.

How long does spousal maintenance last in Texas?

The period of time that you can receive spousal maintenance varies. For marriages lasting 10-20 years, it's up to 5 years. For 20-30 year marriages, generally up to 7 years; for marriages over 30 years, up to 10 years. However, these are just guidelines. Overall, the duration of the marriage is one factor that impacts the specific circumstances of the case.

How is spousal support calculated?

In family court, the court order considers various factors, including both spouses' financial resources, education, employment skills, and the length of the marriage. The spousal support / alimony award cannot exceed $5,000 or 20% of the payer's average monthly gross income. Additionally, the court will assess any marital misconduct, efforts by the receiving spouse to pursue available employment, and the effect of any child support payments on the payor's ability to contribute to spousal support.

Can spousal maintenance be modified or terminated?

Yes, if there's a material and substantial change in circumstances, such as the recipient's remarriage or cohabitation with a romantic partner. It’s essential to approach the court for any modifications. Unilateral decisions to stop or reduce payments without a court's approval can lead to legal consequences. It's always recommended to consult with a spousal support attorney before making any decisions.

Have more questions? Our spousal support attorneys are here to help. Contact us today.

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The Importance of Spousal Support Lawyers in the Divorce Process

The divorce process can be emotionally and financially draining. It’s not enough to rely on a divorce lawyer. Having a dedicated spousal support attorney ensures that your interests are protected, especially when it comes to financial matters. Whether you're the potential payor of those alimony payments or the receiving spouse, understanding your rights and responsibilities around these legal issues is crucial. Our team of divorce attorneys at Lighthouse Legal Services, is committed to providing the legal advice and advocacy you need.

Client Testimonials

You should hire him! I am very grateful for the help I always receive from Barrett. Three years and counting I have needed their services and as always the service exceeds my expectations. At any time I need them they are always available to help quickly and a high level of professionalism.

Emily

Barrett is not only an incredible attorney, but he CARES about his clients. He is readily available whenever needed and achieved an even better outcome than expected! Also, his team is beyond kind and helpful whenever I was in the office. I highly recommend this firm!

Amy

Your future deserves the best legal representation. Contact Lighthouse Legal Services today, your premier spousal support lawyers, for expert advice and advocacy on spousal support in Texas.

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Preparing for Your Initial Consultation with your Family Law Attorney

Coming prepared can make a significant difference in your spousal support case. Gather all relevant documents, including marriage duration, financial records, and any prenuptial agreements. This will help our spousal support (alimony) lawyers provide you with the most accurate legal advice and set the stage for a successful outcome.

Ready to consider your alimony-related options? Schedule your initial consultation with our law offices today.

205 M-B Industrial Dr, Woodway, TX 76712

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