What are my rights on divorce for spouse support after being married 19 years?
Full Question:
Answer:
Texas Courts have limited authority to order alimony after a divorce is granted. However, while your case is pending, the Court has the authority to award temporary spousal support. The Court will consider the needs of the requesting spouse and the ability of the other spouse to pay. The Court will additionally consider the health and age of the parties, ability to work, responsibility for children, availability of funds, and the length of the marriage. As a general rule, spousal support will be ordered for a limited period of time and in an amount necessary to cover the basic necessities of life. To receive alimony after divorce, you must have been married for a period exceeding 10 years, and you may qualify for up to $2,500 per month for a maximum of three years.