Skilled Lawyers For Spousal Maintenance In Austin, Texas
Last updated on May 27, 2026
Divorce can create serious financial uncertainty, especially when one spouse has relied on the other for support. In Austin and throughout Travis, Williamson, Hays and surrounding counties, courts may award spousal maintenance only in limited circumstances.
At Maples | Jones, PLLC, our legal team handles complex family law matters with a deliberate and strategic approach. We maintain a smaller caseload, allowing for detailed preparation, frequent communication and in-person collaboration with our clients. With over 35 years of combined legal experience, our divorce attorneys contribute to building a personalized case that reflects your goals and protects your long-term stability.
How Do Texas Courts Approach Spousal Maintenance?
Texas applies stricter standards to spousal maintenance than many other states. Courts do not grant support automatically. Instead, the requesting spouse must show a clear inability to meet minimum reasonable needs after the divorce.
Recent legislative updates have refined eligibility rules and limits on duration and amount. These changes make preparation and documentation even more important. Our knowledgeable family law attorneys can help you develop a structured presentation of income, expenses and financial limitations to support a claim or challenge one effectively.
Who Qualifies For Spousal Support In Texas?
To receive spousal support, a spouse must meet specific statutory requirements and provide strong supporting evidence. Courts focus on essential living needs rather than maintaining a previous lifestyle.
Common pathways include:
- Length of marriage: Marriages lasting 10 years or more may qualify when one spouse cannot earn enough to meet basic needs
- Family violence: A history of domestic violence by the other spouse can support a maintenance award
- Disability: A physical or mental condition affecting a spouse or child that limits earning capacity
Each pathway requires careful financial and factual support. Courts examine employment history, earning potential and available assets before making a determination.
What Types Of Spousal Maintenance Are Available In Texas?
Different forms of spousal maintenance may apply depending on the structure of your case. We can help you to understand each option and to evaluate what is realistic and appropriate for your circumstances.
- Temporary spousal support: Payments ordered during the divorce process to maintain financial stability
- Contractual alimony: Support agreed upon by both parties and incorporated into the final decree
- Court-ordered spousal maintenance: Statutory support awarded when eligibility requirements are satisfied
Each type carries different rules regarding duration, modification and enforcement. Our attorneys are here to guide your strategy with the appropriate form of support.
Work With Our Divorce Attorneys Focused On Strategy And Precision
At Maples | Jones, PLLC, we provide a concierge-level approach to spousal maintenance and broader family law matters in Austin. Call 512-651-9074 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated divorce attorneys will work closely with you, provide consistent updates and advocate for your financial future.