Adultery may influence how a judge views spousal support, especially if it contributed to the breakup, but it doesn’t automatically disqualify someone from receiving support at Houston.


Spousal support is often difficult to qualify for if both parties earn close to the same amount in income. Further, even if there is income disparity, if the estate is fairly large, a court may not award any spousal support if the property division would result in providing enough funds for the lower earning spouse to meet basic financial needs. Factors such as income disparity, educational disparity, lack of earning capacity, length of the marriage, etc. all play a role in determining whether one could qualify for support.
Whether you are seeking support or being asked to provide spousal support, the process of setting support must be fair and lawful. Having legal representation can greatly improve your chances of achieving your goals in court.
At KGK Family Law, our Houston spousal support lawyers provide thoughtful, strategic guidance to individuals navigating this sensitive process. We understand how deeply financial concerns can affect your peace of mind, and we are here to help you approach support negotiations with clarity and confidence. Call 281-598-6520 to schedule your consultation today.
Texas’ family courts do not automatically award spousal support. It is very difficult to receive spousal support especially if both parties earn around the same amount of income. While child support is commonly ordered following a divorce involving children, spousal support cases often require compelling arguments from the party seeking financial support during and after a divorce. A judge may award spousal support when one party cannot meet their financial needs and requires time to reenter the workforce and learn employable skills.
Factors the court may consider include:
It’s important to distinguish between spousal maintenance, which is court-ordered, and contractual spousal support, which may be agreed upon voluntarily and included in the divorce settlement. Our team of Spousal support agreement attorneys at KGK Family Law can help you determine which option applies to your case and pursue the most favorable terms available.
You may be eligible for spousal support if your marriage lasted at least 10 years and you are unable to provide for your basic needs.
Support may also be awarded in cases involving:
Even in cases where the marriage did not last 10 years or meet other qualifying conditions, both parties can agree to include spousal support in the final divorce decree. Sometimes, one party may agree to pay spousal support for a limited period of time or in return for other concessions in the marriage.
In Texas, there are strict limits on how long spousal support can last. In most cases, spousal support is temporary. You may hear the term “rehabilitative spousal support” used to describe the financial support’s role in helping one party receive the time and resources they need to become self-sufficient.
For marriages that lasted 10 to 20 years, spousal support would typically last two to five years. Only in the case of very long marriages (30-plus years) would spousal support be awarded for 10 years, the upper limit of state guidelines. In cases involving a disabled spouse or a special needs child, a judge may order support for a longer time period. Judges have discretion in certain cases to determine the length of support based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Spousal support is a difficult area to navigate; therefore, it is critical to retain a lawyer with a solid divorce law background. At KGK Family Law, our Houston spousal support lawyers bring a deep understanding of Texas spousal support laws to every case. We advocate for solutions that are fair, enforceable, and tailored to your unique circumstances.
We also know how important it is to avoid unnecessary conflict. Whenever possible, we aim to resolve support issues through thoughtful negotiation. But when litigation is necessary, our support agreement attorneys are fully prepared to make a strong case on your behalf.
Adultery may influence how a judge views spousal support, especially if it contributed to the breakup, but it doesn’t automatically disqualify someone from receiving support at Houston.
You would not likely have to pay spousal support if you were only married a few years ago. Texas law generally requires that spouses have been married a decade or longer before court-ordered support is considered. There are circumstances, such as when domestic violence is involved, that can lead to spousal support being ordered for shorter marriages.
For divorces finalized after 2018, spousal support payments are not deductible for the payer and are not considered taxable income for the recipient under current federal law.
Yes. In some cases, both parties may agree to waive spousal support as part of the divorce settlement. However, this decision should be carefully considered, as it may not be reversible later. An attorney from KGK Family Law can help you understand the long-term impact before you sign any agreement.
Whether you’re seeking support or being asked to provide it, you deserve a fair and well-informed agreement. At KGK Family Law, our Houston spousal support attorneys understand the financial and emotional weight of these decisions. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and protect your future. We proudly serve those in Houston and Sugar Land as well as the surrounding areas. Call 281-598-6520 today to schedule your consultation.