Fair, Thoughtful Spousal Support Assistance In San Antonio
Last updated on July 14, 2025
Not everyone has the means to be financially independent outside of their marriage, but that should not stop anyone from getting out of an unhappy marriage. Whether you expect to need financial assistance after divorce, or your former spouse is asking for spousal support, you need dependable guidance and advocacy from a divorce attorney you trust.
Contact us at Soulsby Law for experienced legal help with spousal support, commonly known as alimony. Our attorney, Kate Soulsby, has been practicing family law in the San Antonio area for more than a decade. She will give you practical options for resolving your conflict and make sure you start the next phase of your life on a solid financial footing.
How Does Spousal Support Work in Texas?
Generally, a divorcing spouse will request spousal support, commonly known as alimony, when they have few financial resources and cannot meet their minimum reasonable needs based on their own resources and income. This often happens in situations where one spouse spent years as the primary child-rearer and housekeeper, while the other spouse earned all or most of the income. The spouse who did not work outside the home may lack the education or work history to begin earning a significant income right away. Spousal support may also be necessary when one spouse is unable to work due to a disability or long-term illness.
Spousal support may last for a fixed period to give the spouse receiving support the time for job training or restarting their career. It can also be for an indefinite period if the recipient is unlikely to ever become self-sufficient.
A Skilled and Understanding Lawyer with Experience on Both Sides of Spousal Support Disputes
Whether you are seeking spousal support or are being asked to pay, you deserve a path to a fair resolution that avoids costly delays and emotional upheaval. We will negotiate with your best interests as our top priority. If the matter ends up in court, we will forcefully present your case applying the law to the facts. Whatever happens, our goal is your financial stability.
Spousal Support FAQs
Q: Who qualifies for spousal support in Texas?
A: Not every divorcing spouse is automatically entitled to spousal support, also known as “spousal maintenance,” in Texas. To qualify, the spouse requesting support must generally prove that they do not have enough property or income to meet their reasonable needs after the divorce.
Q: How is the amount of spousal support determined in San Antonio courts?
A: When determining the amount of spousal support, Texas courts look at several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources and ability to meet their own needs, and their respective ages, education, employment histories, and earning abilities.
The court also considers any contributions either spouse made to the marriage, such as supporting the other’s career or managing the household, as well as any history of family violence and the health or special needs of either spouse or their children.
Q: How long does spousal support last in Texas?
A: In most cases, spousal support in Texas is awarded for a limited time to allow the recipient to work toward financial independence. The duration depends on the specifics of the case. In rare cases, support may be indefinite if the receiving spouse is unable to become self-sufficient due to a disability or because they are caring for a disabled child.
Q: Can spousal support be modified or terminated?
A: Spousal support orders can be modified or terminated under certain circumstances. Common reasons for modification or termination include the remarriage of the recipient, the recipient living with a new romantic partner, or a significant change in the financial situation of either spouse, such as a job loss or substantial change in income.
If the recipient no longer needs support, the court may also terminate the order. Any changes must be approved by the court, so it’s important to consult a family law attorney if you believe a modification or termination is appropriate.
Q: What if my ex-spouse stops paying court-ordered spousal support?
A: If your ex-spouse fails to pay court-ordered spousal support, you may have legal options to enforce the order. You may file a motion for enforcement with the court, which can result in measures such as wage garnishment, liens against property, or even contempt of court charges against the non-paying spouse.
The court can also require payment of overdue amounts, known as arrears. An experienced attorney can guide you through this process and help ensure you receive the support you are owed.
Get Started Now on Finding a Solution to Your Spousal Support Problem
For a free legal consultation, call 210-714-4830 to reach our San Antonio office. You can also contact us by email if you prefer.