One of the most challenging aspects of a divorce is dealing with the financial impacts. This can be made doubly hard if the spouse who was the main income earner wants to avoid paying their share of child support and/or spousal support.
In cities such as Houston, Galveston, and League City, getting child and spousal support may be crucial in being able to survive. While we certainly love our Texas cities and lifestyle, the harsh reality is that the cost of living here has only gone up since Texas has become such a popular state.
For example, the cost of living in League City scores a 107.90 compared to the U.S. average of 100. This means the cost of living is higher on average in League City. In fact, rent in League City is significantly higher than even in Houston. (Housing is actually what makes League City more expensive overall.)
You may have become accustomed to a certain lifestyle and standard of living when you were married. Until you get back on your feet as a single person, making that adjustment can be difficult. It can be especially challenging if you are the one who will be raising the children.
If you live in League City and are undergoing divorce, you may be forced to relocate if you don’t get help. This is where a spousal support attorney and child support attorney can help.
Spousal Support in Texas
Unfortunately, Texas doesn’t just hand out alimony. Spousal support in Texas is called “maintenance” and it is only temporary to help one spouse meet their basic needs. The assumption by the courts is that you will not need any spousal support, so you need to specifically request it.
If you are seeking spousal support in League City, you will need to demonstrate financial need, and that may be only applicable if you were married for at least 10 years. A spousal support attorney can help determine what maintenance, if any, you may be eligible to receive from your former spouse.
Child Custody in Texas
If you are seeking child custody and need child support, you should contact a child support attorney. Judges in Texas base child support awards on the parent’s net income. Child support is typically awarded up until the child’s 18th birthday or when they graduate from high school (whichever is later). In cases of child disability, support may be awarded past the 18th birthday and into adulthood.
Getting Help for Child Support and Spousal Support in League City
Fortunately, if you like being married, the historical trend in the Houston metro area is to remarry eventually. In the meantime, you may need the support of a qualified lawyer to help you through this tough time. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates has three convenient locations in Houston, League City, and Galveston. Contact us today so we can discuss how to help you.