The cost of divorce can be devastating, especially if you are asked to
pay alimony or if you receive fewer assets after your properties are divided.
In order to protect your interests and your possessions, make sure you
know everything you need to about alimony and spousal maintenance before
you begin your divorce.
About Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance is a type of compensation paid from one spouse to the
other after the divorce has been finalized. The maintenance payment may
be designed to pay for a variety of costs associated with the divorce,
including legal fees, new cost of living, and so on.
Who is Eligible?
Not everyone qualifies for spousal maintenance.
In order to receive this type of compensation, one of the following must be true:
- The individual is or was a victim of domestic abuse
- The parent has custody of a child with special needs
- The individual can not earn enough income to support themselves, and the
marriage lasted for at least 10 years
- The individual is unable to earn a living because of a physical or mental
disability
Additionally, even if the individual meets one or more of these criteria,
he or she must prove to the court that he or she requires additional funds
to support him or herself.
How Much Spousal Maintenance Can I Receive?
The amount of spousal maintenance received varies significantly but is
usually proportionate to the earning power of the paying spouse. Usually,
maintenance cannot exceed $5,000 per month or 20% of the paying party’s
total income. Spousal support payments typically last between 5-10 years,
although this duration may vary.
Your Next Step
If you think you are eligible to receive spousal maintenance, our firm
is prepared to help. Our experienced lawyers can review your case and
determine whether or not you may request spousal maintenance and how much.
Contact the Law Office of Kathryn Marteeny
today to discuss your divorce case with our Houston family law lawyers.