Izzo & Associates, PLLC | Attorneys at Law

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Izzo & Associates, PLLC | Attorneys at Law

Strong Legal Help For All Your Family Law Needs

Round Rock Spousal Maintenance Lawyers

Financial stability can be a major concern when marriage comes to an end, especially for spouses who may have sacrificed careers or income-earning opportunities during the marriage. Spousal maintenance can provide financial assistance to a spouse who qualifies under Texas law. However, courts do not automatically grant alimony; instead, it is awarded based on specific legal criteria. In this case, the assistance of an experienced family law attorney is essential to secure a fair outcome.

At Izzo & Associates, PLLC, we have over 20 years of experience helping clients in Round Rock, Austin, and Lakeway, Texas, as well as Travis, Williamson, Bell and Hays counties. Our team of skilled lawyers understands the complexities of Texas spousal maintenance laws and provides personalized legal strategies to help you pursue the support you deserve. Whether you need to request alimony or defend against an unreasonable spousal maintenance claim, our firm is here to advocate for your best interests.

Understanding Alimony In Texas

Alimony, legally referred to as spousal maintenance, is financial support that one spouse may be required to pay the other after a divorce.

In Texas, alimony is not guaranteed and is usually awarded based on:

  • The length of the marriage
  • Financial need
  • The ability of the paying spouse to provide support

Courts in Texas can award up to $5,000 per month or 20% of the paying spouse’s average monthly gross income, whichever is less.

Duration Of Spousal Maintenance

The length of time alimony payments last depends on the duration of the marriage:

  • Up to 5 years for marriages lasting between 10 and 20 years
  • Up to 7 years for marriages lasting between 20 and 30 years
  • Up to 10 years for marriages lasting 30 years or more

If the receiving spouse is disabled or caring for a disabled child, maintenance can last indefinitely. Our attorneys can explain eligibility requirements in depth and help you determine if you qualify.

Eligibility For Spousal Maintenance

One of the following conditions must be met to qualify for alimony in Texas:

  • The marriage endured at least 10 years, and the lower-earning spouse is unable to meet their minimum financial needs.
  • The paying spouse was convicted of domestic violence against their spouse or children within two years of the divorce filing.
  • A significant wage disparity exists between the spouses, making it difficult for one party to be self-sufficient.
  • A marital agreement already establishes alimony terms.

If you are unsure of your eligibility status, attorney John Thomas Izzo takes his time during phone consultations to help you understand your eligibility.

How A Court Determines Alimony In Texas

Texas courts consider several factors when deciding whether to grant spousal maintenance and how much to award. Some key considerations include:

  • Each spouse’s ability to provide for their needs independently
  • The education and employment skills of the spouse seeking support
  • The length of the marriage and whether one spouse sacrificed career opportunities
  • The paying spouse’s ability to meet both parties’ financial obligations
  • Evidence of marital misconduct, such as infidelity or abuse
  • The age, health and earning capacity of both parties

Our lawyers can assess your case and present the necessary evidence to help secure a fair alimony ruling.

Modification Or Termination Of Alimony In Texas

Spousal maintenance orders are not always permanent. If circumstances change after the divorce, a party may request a modification or termination of payments.

A court may modify an alimony order if the financial situation of either spouse changes. This could include:

  • A job loss or significant pay cut affecting the paying spouse’s ability to continue payments
  • An increase in income for the receiving spouse that allows them to be self-sufficient
  • Health issues that impact either party’s ability to work

On the other hand, spousal maintenance obligations may be terminated under certain conditions, such as:

  • The recipient spouse remarries or begins living with a new partner in a marriage-like relationship
  • Either spouse passes away
  • The recipient spouse achieves financial independence

If you are paying or receiving alimony and believe your circumstances warrant a change, let us help you pursue a legal modification.

Call Us Today

With over 20 years of experience, Izzo & Associates, PLLC, provides skilled legal representation for clients in Round Rock, Austin, Lakeway and the surrounding counties of Travis, Williamson, Bell and Hays. Call 512-982-1161 or contact us online today to book a consultation, and let us form strategies that can protect your financial future.