How Long Does Spousal Maintenance Last in Texas?

If you’re going through a divorce in Texas, spousal maintenance is likely on your mind. In Texas, lifelong spousal maintenance is rarely awarded, and with expectations that support should only last long enough for the receiving spouse to get back on their feet, you need an experienced team by your side.

At Prince Contreras PLLC, we understand that spousal maintenance can be one of the most complicated and emotionally draining aspects of a divorce. Our team is dedicated to advocating for your rights, and in the right circumstances, we can fight to make sure your spousal maintenance supports you for years to come.

If you have questions or need guidance, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Call Prince Contreras PLLC today at 210-227-7821 to schedule a consultation.

What Is the Maximum Length of Time Spousal Maintenance Can Be Ordered in Texas?

In Texas, spousal maintenance has a time limit, and how long it lasts generally depends on how long you were married. If the marriage lasted less than 10 years, spousal maintenance might be ordered for a maximum of 5 years.

If the marriage lasted between 10 and 20 years, the maximum is 5 years, and for marriages lasting 20 to 30 years, maintenance can be up to 7 years. If the marriage lasted over 30 years or more, the court could order maintenance for 10 years.

However, the court doesn’t always award the maximum length available for spousal support. They want the receiving spouse to become self-sufficient and independent without relying on support. The idea is that the receiving spouse can spend their time brushing up on skills to re-enter the workforce.

Spousal maintenance doesn’t only depend on the length of the marriage. There are exceptions, so be sure to consult with a knowledgeable attorney.

Can Spousal Maintenance Be Awarded for Life in Texas?

While it is uncommon, lifetime spousal maintenance is possible in certain exceptional situations. The court could award long-term or indefinite support if the receiving spouse has a physical or mental disability that prevents them from working or becoming financially independent.

Additionally, if the receiving spouse is the custodial parent of a disabled child whose care prevents them from getting a job, they could be entitled to continued spousal support.

In both these cases, the court can order maintenance to continue for as long as the condition continues. However, this support isn’t always permanent, as the receiving spouse needs to prove their need for assistance and demonstrate they cannot provide for themselves.

Even when lifetime maintenance is awarded, the court periodically reviews the recipient’s situation to make sure continued support is necessary.

What Events Can Cause Spousal Maintenance to End Early in Texas?

Several life events can cause spousal maintenance to end earlier than planned in Texas. The most common reason spousal support is terminated is when the receiving spouse gets remarried. This means that once they remarry, their spousal maintenance automatically ends.

Another reason maintenance can end early is if the receiving spouse is in a permanent relationship with a romantic partner and they’re living together. In cases like these, the court could decide that the financial needs of the receiving spouse have changed, and the maintenance could be terminated.

Additionally, the death of either the paying or receiving spouse automatically ends the spousal maintenance obligation. Apart from these events, either party can request to modify or terminate spousal maintenance if there’s a major change in circumstances, such as a job loss or a severe illness that affects the paying spouse’s ability to continue support.

Can Spousal Maintenance Be Extended Beyond the Original Court Order?

In Texas, spousal maintenance is typically meant to be a temporary measure, and extensions aren’t automatic. To extend maintenance beyond the original order, the receiving spouse must go back to court and demonstrate that they’re eligible for an extension.

To be eligible for an extension, the receiving spouse must prove that they’re disabled, that they can’t earn a sufficient income, or any other exceptional circumstance that is stopping the receiving spouse from becoming independent.

The court will only approve an extension if the recipient can show that their circumstances haven’t improved and that they’re still unable to support themselves.

Prince Contreras PLLC for Your Spousal Maintenance Needs

Navigating spousal maintenance issues in a divorce can be overwhelming, but with the right legal guidance, you can make informed decisions that protect your interests.

At Prince Contreras PLLC, we’re committed to providing personalized and expert legal counsel to help you understand your rights and responsibilities. If you’re dealing with spousal maintenance or other family law matters, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Contact our office at 210-227-7821 for a consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence.