Can Men Be Awarded Spousal Support in Texas?

 Posted on October 30, 2024 in Spousal Support

While divorce happens fairly often and people know a lot about what it involves, there are still some serious misconceptions. Some are based on old practices, and some are based on simple misunderstandings. Whatever the cause, it is important to clear up confusion with reliable information.

One issue that many people mistakenly think they know about is spousal support, which is commonly known as alimony. There is a popular, but inaccurate, belief that when a couple gets divorced, the husband always has to pay spousal support to the wife. In reality, decisions about spousal support are based on several factors. The spouse’s gender is not one of them. If you are considering divorce but are wondering what you might be able to expect from a settlement, speak with a knowledgeable Tarrant County, TX family law attorney for guidance.

How is Spousal Support Calculated in Texas?

In Texas, several factors are considered when calculating spousal support, including:

• How long the couple was married

• The couple’s standard of living

• Each spouse’s financial resources

• Each spouse’s employment background and prospects

• Each spouse’s contributions to the marriage

• Each spouse’s mental and physical health

Does Infidelity Affect Spousal Support Calculations?

In Texas, fault-based divorce can influence the amount and duration of alimony, which often benefits the non-fault spouse. When one spouse proves that the other’s actions (such as adultery or cruelty) led to the breakdown of the marriage, the court may increase the alimony amount or extend its duration. Texas judges have discretion in these decisions, and may grant additional support if the non-fault spouse demonstrates hardship caused by the other’s conduct.

Fault can also limit alimony in cases where the requesting spouse is found to be at fault, such as abandonment or adultery. Depending on the severity of the fault, courts may reduce or set stricter limits on alimony payments.

How Can I Qualify for Spousal Support?

Several conditions must be met for one spouse to be awarded spousal support by the court. These conditions include:

• The receiving spouse cannot meet his or her minimum reasonable financial needs.

• The paying spouse can provide support without compromising his or her own financial stability.

• The couple was married for at least ten years. If the recipient spouse was a victim of domestic violence during the marriage, spousal support can be granted even if they were married for less than ten years.

• The recipient spouse has a disability preventing him or her from earning a living.

None of the conditions relate to the gender of the paying or recipient spouse. A family law attorney can review your circumstances and advise you on how to proceed with your request.

Contact a Dallas, TX Spousal Support Lawyer

If you are considering divorce, do not let anyone tell you that you will need to pay spousal support just because you are a man. A skilled Tarrant County TX divorce attorney can explain how the wife in a Texas divorce can be required to pay her ex-husband. At Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, we know that all couples have unique dynamics and financial situations and we advocate aggressively on behalf of our clients’ personal needs. Call us at 469-845-3031 to schedule a private consultation.