Denton Alimony Lawyer

Helping Clients Through The Alimony Process in Northern Texas

If you are getting divorced in Texas, alimony—often called spousal maintenance—is one of the most important factors affecting your financial future. A negative outcome can cause the supported spouse significant hardship, while even with strict Texas laws, the party ordered to pay may have long-term financial obligations.

The courts in Denton County follow the Texas Family Code but may have unique district procedures, such as mandatory mediation before hearings and specific local filing requirements. Working with an attorney who routinely practices in Denton courts helps guide you through these local steps with confidence.

Choosing the right representation is essential when facing divorce and alimony in Texas. At Burrows Law Group, our attorneys pursue fair outcomes through negotiation or litigation—always striving for solutions that serve your long-term interests.

You can rely on our decades of experience and commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes. Call us at (972) 236-7798 or contact us online today to speak with our experienced Dneton alimony lawyers. 

How Alimony & Spousal Support Cases Progress in Denton County

Alimony and spousal support cases in Denton County generally follow a structured process that often starts when one spouse formally requests support during divorce proceedings. The court schedules an initial hearing, and in Denton County, parties may need to attend mediation before the case goes to trial. This local mediation requirement helps many clients resolve disputes faster and with fewer court appearances. Denton family court judges encourage early resolutions, as these can reduce conflict and allow both parties more control over the outcome.

During the hearing phase, each side presents evidence, such as financial records, job details, and proof of need or ability to pay. The court reviews statutory factors—like marriage duration and earning ability—guided by knowledge of the local job market and cost of living. Denton County Family Court strives to reach a decision on temporary or final support within months of the initial filing. This approach provides North Texas families the stability they need as they move into post-divorce life.

Tax Implications of Alimony & Spousal Support in Texas

Tax treatment of alimony and spousal support changed in 2019. For divorces finalized in or after 2019, those who pay court-ordered spousal support cannot deduct those payments from their taxable income, and those receiving support do not include payments as taxable income. This federal rule applies to all Texas cases, including those in Denton County, and directly impacts how couples negotiate alimony or spousal support agreements.

Judges in Denton County expect both parties to consider tax implications when negotiating or modifying these payments, but do not provide tax advice. In cases involving significant support, consulting a tax professional together with your attorney helps ensure compliance with both court requirements and IRS rules. Understanding these implications can help you plan for your financial future after divorce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the alimony process usually take in Denton County?

The timeline depends on each case and the court’s calendar, but most cases resolve within a few months if both sides cooperate and complete required steps quickly. Contested issues or lack of documentation can cause delays.

Can I change my spousal support arrangements if my financial situation changes?

You may request a modification through the court if you experience a substantial change, like job loss or increased expenses. The judge considers current circumstances and decides based on updated financial information.

What happens if my former spouse does not pay court-ordered alimony?

If payments stop, you can file a motion for enforcement with the court. Denton County judges may issue a wage withholding order or take other steps to ensure you receive court-ordered support.

Requirements & Legal Presumptions for Alimony in Texas

Texas family law starts with a presumption against ordering spousal support. The spouse asking for support must prove financial need—despite sincere efforts to be self-supporting—and satisfy one of the following:

• The other spouse has a recent domestic violence conviction (within two years before the divorce was filed or during proceedings).
• The person requesting support cannot be self-supporting due to a physical or mental disability.
• The marriage lasted at least 10 years, and the requesting spouse cannot provide for basic needs.
• The spouse seeking support cares for a child with a mental or physical disability, which prevents them from working outside the home.

Courtrooms in Denton County emphasize detailed documentation and prompt filings. Providing complete, accurate financial records gives the court a clearer view, which can directly impact the outcome. Local judges review each request carefully to determine a spouse’s level of self-sufficiency and actual need.

The statutory requirements above do not stop couples from negotiating agreed, contractual spousal support in situations that don’t fit the law. For example, if both sides agree one parent should stay home with young children for several years, they may enter into a divorce agreement that provides support, even if grounds for court-ordered maintenance do not exist.

When the Court Decides Alimony Is Appropriate

If a court finds a spouse meets the requirements for alimony, the judge considers several factors when deciding payment amount and duration. These include the length of the marriage, each spouse’s age and health, work history, marital misconduct, and the effect any child support has on the supporting spouse’s ability to pay.

Denton County judges may also consider whether a spouse is pursuing additional education or workforce training. They look at local cost of living and how long it will likely take the receiving spouse to re-enter the workforce or become self-sufficient. Denton's courts apply these factors to meet the unique needs of local families.

As for the duration of alimony, Texas law allows orders for:

• Unlimited time for a spouse who cannot support themselves due to disability, or when a child’s special needs require the custodial parent to remain home.
• Up to five years if the marriage lasted less than 10 years but involved domestic violence, or if the marriage lasted at least 10 but less than 20 years.
• Up to seven years if the marriage lasted at least 20 years but less than 30 years.
• Up to 10 years if the marriage lasted 30 years or longer.

Can Alimony Be Modified or Terminated?

Either party may ask to modify alimony if a significant change in circumstances occurs, such as job loss or increased expenses. The court requires clear documentation, and both sides may need to attend a hearing before any changes take effect. North Texas courts consider economic factors relevant to the area, such as changes in employment markets or salary standards.

Court approval is necessary for changes to spousal support in Denton County. Judges require thorough documentation before making any modification, and both parties may need to appear in court. Local judges also consider regional employment conditions, which can affect the judge’s decision regarding a requested change in support payments.

Alimony may end if the receiving spouse remarries or lives with a new partner, as these conditions may change financial need. The court may also stop alimony if the recipient becomes self-supporting. To change or stop payments, seek a court hearing with proof of what has changed since your divorce order was issued.

Legal advice from an experienced family law attorney can play a key role in making sure any alimony modification or termination is handled according to Texas law and local Denton County procedures.

Contact Our Denton County Alimony Attorney Today

Alimony can have a major impact on your finances after divorce. You can depend on the attorneys at Burrows Law Group to provide strong, compassionate representation when you need it most.

Our attorneys know the details of Denton County Family Court, including judges’ preferences and filing protocols. We tailor our guidance to fit the realities of the area’s courts, providing additional value for local clients who need trusted help throughout their legal matter.

Call (972) 236-7798 or click here to schedule a consultation with an Deonton alimony attorney. We represent clients throughout Frisco, Collin County, Denton County, and the surrounding areas.