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Alimony Attorney

Are you considering divorce in Texas? You probably have questions about alimony, also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance.

The alimony attorneys at The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt in Arlington, TX, can help you protect your financial future.

Men and women from Southlake, Westover Hills, and all over Dallas-Fort Worth choose our divorce lawyers for help with alimony disputes...

What an Alimony Attorney Can Do for You

Our family law attorneys in Arlington can represent your entire divorce case in or out of the courtroom. We can also provide limited-scope representation, meaning we only handle alimony or other individual aspects of your divorce. 

Along with providing legal advice, our family law attorneys can:  


Fight to improve or protect your future income 

Walk you through the spousal support legal process 

Help file paperwork and keep track of due dates 

Help submit a request for modification of spousal support

Help you and your ex reach a fair outcome according to the law

The attorneys at our law firm are here to help you with alimony, child custody, and every other aspect of divorce. Our divorce lawyers will gather facts including the length of the marriage and each spouse's capacity to hear a living in order to reach a fair outcome. Get in touch with our law firm today to consult a divorce attorney.

Alimony in Texas

Alimony is financial support that one spouse is ordered by a court to provide to the other during and/or after a divorce. Texas family law refers to alimony as "spousal maintenance." Other states refer to it as "spousal support."

In Texas, the initial presumption of the court during any divorce is that spousal support is not appropriate. Judges will only award alimony under specific circumstances, and the payments are almost always required for only a limited time. 

Alimony payments, when ordered and calculated fairly, can empower a lower-earning spouse to start a new life after a divorce. However, when alimony payments are awarded unfairly, they can be a crippling financial burden to the supporting spouse. At The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt in Arlington, our alimony attorneys assist both higher-earning and lower-earning spouses in alimony disputes. If you are going through a divorce, our lawyers can protect your rights and your family's best interests.

Speak With an Alimony Lawyer

Going through a divorce is an emotional experience. Many of the issues can raise feelings of sadness, anger, and confusion. It is critical to have an attorney by your side so you are not taken advantage of. This is true of all aspects of family law, but when it comes to spousal support, it is especially beneficial to have skilled legal representation.

At The Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt in Arlington, TX, we provide compassionate yet aggressive advocacy and fight for your rights. Donna Smiedt is recognized as a Board Certified Family Law Attorney – Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and she leads a team of divorce attorneys at her law offices.

We offer in-person and virtual consultations to prospective clients from Southlake, Westover Hills, and all over Dallas-Fort Worth. Schedule your consultation right now so you can discuss alimony with a lawyer who specializes in family law. You can request a consultation by contacting us online or by calling our Arlington office at (817) 572-9900.

Call Our Law Firm: (817) 572-9900

The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt office
We offer legal advice and consultations at our relaxing law office in Arlington, TX.

Read What Clients Have to Say About Donna J. Smiedt and Her Team

1

Noel Cookman

2020

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"Do you recommend Donna Smiedt?" OF COURSE I DO. She is one of the smartest lawyers I've ever known and she uses all of that intelligence to help her clients, first and foremost. That's what I call Relevant Competence - talent that matters because it is used to help real people with real challenges. She knows how to get people "across the finish line." And, she is highly regarded in the world of law and the courts. That's critical. You can't go wrong by hiring Donna Smiedt.

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1

Keri Smith

2016

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Donna represented our family for a parental termination and step parent adoption. Her entire team did a great job over the 2 year process. I thought Donna's strategy and no nonsense approach to be exactly what we needed. Finding a parent who hides can typically be tough but she knew the legal way to navigate around it. At the end, my daughter was adopted by the man who is truly her dad. Seriously, an excellent legal team!

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Temporary vs. Permanent Support

In Texas, there are different types of spousal support. Understanding the difference between temporary and permanent support is important:

  • Temporary support: These temporary payments are made by one spouse to the other during the case and before a final decree is entered.
  • Permanent support: This support is paid once the case is over and provides the recipient with the funds needed to maintain the same standard of living as they had during the marriage.

How Spousal Support Is Determined

Several factors are considered by family law courts when entering an order of spousal support, including:

  • Income level of each party
  • Educational and employment history of each party
  • The length of the marriage
  • The ages of the parties
  • Whether any health issues are present
  • Whether the recipient is caring for a disabled child or is disabled themselves
  • The child support order and child custody arrangement, if applicable
  • History of domestic violence or other marital misconduct

Every case is unique and has special needs. In order to determine the amount of spousal support that fits your case, our alimony lawyers in Arlington will examine all the facts and present them on your behalf. The court then takes all evidence into consideration and enters a final order.

Does Fault Impact Spousal Support?

spouses' fingers pointing at each other

A spouse can be considered at fault for the divorce, but this won't likely be a factor in determining alimony.

For the most part, no. Texas is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means that one or both parties can dissolve a marriage without needing to cite a specific reason behind the divorce. By contrast, “fault” is when a spouse can list specific actions of the other party that led to the separation.

While the court may rule in favor of a spouse when their partner is at fault, this determination does not guarantee spousal support. However, cruelty in the form of family violence may be considered when determining spousal support. 

We Can Handle Your Case Request a Consultation With Our Family Attorneys 

Every family is unique, which applies to every family law case that our practice handles. For example, if one of the parties in a divorce is a sponsored immigrant, they can call upon the Affidavit of Support to receive spousal support for a limited amount of time. Our attorneys can help you navigate the complex rules and regulations of the court to find a fair solution under the law. 

We can help you file for alimony and discover pertinent details that could affect your case. If you or your partner have begun the divorce process, contact our practice using this electronic form or call our office at:

(817) 572-9900

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"I Highly Recommend Her." Reasons Why Patients Turn to Donna and Her Team

1

Tony Hamud

2021

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I have known Donna since 2006 and am beyond grateful to have had her on my side. She is considerate, confident, and truly a loving person. My journey with her has led her to become a genuine friend of mine and I would highly recommend her to anyone! She will listen to your needs and pour her heart into being an advocate for you. She is unlike any other lawyer and will be real with you and take care of business. She excels at what she does and has a passion for winning for all of her clients. She will listen to you and make it her mission to help you throughout your difficult times. Additionally, her staff is very welcoming and helpful. As a person who has gone through two divorces, I would not trust any other lawyer than Donna. Her name, experience, and years in the business tells you all that you need to know.

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1

Lee Fedornak

2020

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If you have to file for a divorce, PLEASE do NOT go into that unchartered legal arena without Donna's guidance. She is the consummate knowledeable divorce professional! If you are crushingly miserable in your daily life with your spouse, & true happiness is beyond attainable, be brave enough to save yourself. If you step into the Divorce ring, you need the very best to help you from a divorce attorney...That would easily be Donna. Her depth of knowledge in Divorce Law, Process & procedure is second to none. In the courtroom I will tell you she has few peers. She will successfully guide you to a resolution you will be happy with...Have you missed the word "Happy & Peace" in you life...Donna will help you find it again. After going through a challenging divorce with Donna representing me, I ended it by considering her not only the best attorney I could have selected, but a friend...now how many people can say that about their attorney? Thank you very much Donna!

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A Lawyer Can Help with Spousal Maintenance

woman taking off wedding ring
Having an attorney from our Arlington law firm help with your case ensures that important pieces of information are not overlooked. When you are going through a divorce, your primary focus should be on your future. Having a divorce attorney fight for what you deserve helps alleviate stress and worry, allowing you to focus on your family and responsibilities.

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

A Firm That Judges and Attorneys Trust

Our law firm is well-regarded in the legal community of Greater Dallas-Fort Worth. In fact, we have represented several judges and lawyers in their own divorce cases. 

Stress-Free Atmosphere

Our attorneys know how difficult a divorce can be, which is why we do everything we can to foster a relaxing environment at our Arlington office. Clients especially appreciate our divorce therapy dogs.

Focus on Collaborative Law

Whenever possible, our divorce lawyers encourage clients to consider a collaborative divorce. Through this process, spouses can resolve issues related to alimony, property division, child custody, and more through mediation instead of litigation.

Practicing Since 1986

Donna Smiedt began practicing family law in the Arlington area in 1986. She became a Board Certified Family Law Attorney - Texas Board of Legal Specialization in 1991. Over the decades, she has seen every possible complication that can arise in a divorce, and she knows how to navigate these complex cases.

Spousal Support in a Collaborative Divorce 

Cash and Gavel on table during a discussion

A collaborative divorce is when both parties of the marriage reach an agreement on property division, visitation rights, child support, etc. By collaborating, both parties can avoid the added stress of taking their case to court and maintain a more amicable relationship among family members. 

You and your spouse can determine alimony in collaborative divorce and have more control over the terms and conditions compared to having it determined by the court. However, collaborative divorce is not the best fit for everyone, especially when a spouse is not cooperative or has abused their partner in the past.  

Can a maintenance order be modified?

Yes, a party can request a modification of spousal support if they or the other spouse experience certain changes in their circumstances. For example, if the obligee moves in with a romantic partner, the obligor may request a modification. However, the duration and amount awarded in an existing order cannot be increased. 

Our divorce attorneys can help you determine whether you have grounds for a modification and help you file for a change or end to spousal support payments.

Get Started With a Consultation

Our Arlington divorce lawyers are ready to review your case and help you achieve a just alimony agreement. Contact our law offices today to schedule your in-person or virtual consultation. Men and women from Southlake, Westover Hills, and all over Dallas-Fort Worth can request a consultation online or by phone.

More 5-Star Reviews  From Satisfied Clients in the Arlington, TX, Area

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Mohamed Abouelnaga

2016

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This is one of the greatest Firm I have ever worked with, I was very satisfied was my experience with Ms. Muma And Ms.SMIEDT if you are looking for super lawyer someone who care about you and your case then this is the right firm if you are looking for aggressive lawyer that will fight hard for you then this is the right Law Firm for you. The way that Ms. Donna Smiedt and Ms.Muma handled my case it's a proven example that they're a lawyers who knows the way and willing to go and show there clients the way to best results, I'm truly happy and grateful for everything they have done for me. Thank you.

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1

Valerie Moore

2019

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Donna was my attorney during a very difficult divorce. She is very supportive, professional, ethical and well-respected by her clients, the judges and DFW legal community. Her staff is fantastic. In addition to divorces, Donna has provided professional services in other family law issues I have faced as well will preparation. The services she and her staff have provided to me, my husband and children span a time frame of almost 20 years. I would never consider going to any other attorney for any type of family law issues. Her knowledge in family law cannot be found anywhere else and I highly recommend her. Valerie M.

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Compassionate Attorneys

Donna J. Smiedt and Desaray R. Muma

Donna J. Smiedt and the rest of our team are committed to treating every client who chooses our Arlington family law offices with the utmost respect, patience, and sensitivity.

Donna J. Smiedt

Donna is a renowned lawyer throughout Tarrant County and has helped other lawyers and judges through family law cases. Donna has handled cases regarding almost every aspect of family law, and one of her primary areas of practice is post-divorce modifications, such as filing for changes to spousal support payments. 

Melissa Mozingo

Melissa Mozingo is a graduate from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law. She has practiced family law since 2004. As an attorney, Melissa brings a compassionate and diligent approach to her clients.

We Are Your Resource For Legal Advice on Alimony and Family Law

Filing for spousal support during a divorce can be a challenge when the courts require proof for implementing or modifying maintenance orders. Our family law firm can guide you through each step of pursuing spousal support and help your family find a fair solution for everyone. Our attorneys can answer your questions and provide legal advice to help you navigate the complexities of divorce and alimony. 

Discuss your situation with our attorneys during a consultation. Complete our online form or call our Arlington law firm at:

(817) 572-9900

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MORE Glowing Testimonials From Satisfied Clients in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area

1

James Pitar

2022

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Ms. Smiedt provided excellent representation for us in a family law matter. Her experience, knowledge and determination led us to an excellent outcome. She's friendly, professional, and extremely effective at achieving favorable results. 

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1

Andrea T.

2022

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The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt has been wonderful! They are extremely professional and go above and beyond to get the best deal in the courtroom for you. I highly recommend them to everyone!

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Texas Spousal Maintenance FAQ

What is the maximum alimony payment in Texas?

Unlike most states, Texas has determined a limit on how much financial support one spouse can be ordered to give the other. The highest amount a spouse can be ordered to pay every month is either $5,000 or 20 percent of that spouse's average monthly gross income. Whichever amount is less represents the maximum in that case. 

What are the tax implications of spousal maintenance?

In the past, the IRS considered alimony payments to be tax-deductible for the paying spouse and taxable income for the receiving spouse. However, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 changed that. Now, spousal maintenance payments are not tax-deductible for the payor or taxable for the recipient. Our divorce lawyers will take this into account when advising you on what kind of support arrangement you should seek.

How is spousal support related to child custody and child support?

In most circumstances, the parent awarded primary custody of a child will receive some amount of court-ordered child support from the other parent. Judges do take this into account when deciding if spousal maintenance is appropriate after a divorce. Generally speaking, judges are less likely to order that a spouse pay spousal support if that spouse will already be required to pay child support.

What happens if a spouse remarries?

When the paying spouse remarries or begins to cohabitate with a romantic partner, it will not warrant any change to the maintenance order. However, if the spouse receiving support remarries or moves in with a new romantic partner, then the support order can be terminated before the original end date.

"Ms. Smiedt made it so much easier." Reviews of the Family Law Firm of Donna J. Smiedt

1

Andru Strass

2022

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It was refreshing to have someone like Ms. Smiedt to fight in my corner. She explained everything and sought out the best options. She fought for me, and was even sympathetic to my situation. Even after the case was settled, I can still call on her with questions, support, and help. I not only respect her, I recommend her to everyone I know.

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1

Joan Smith

2022

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Divorce is never easy but having Ms. Smiedt and her team representing me during this tough time made it so much easier. Ms. Smiedt is generous with her time and is extremely professional. She guided me through the unfamiliar details with knowledge, patience and kindness. I would recommend Ms. Smiedt and her team to anyone looking for an Attorney. Thanks again!

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the team at The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt

The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt

The Family Law Firm of Donna J Smiedt is the premier destination for clients who need representation during a divorce, adoption, or other family law matters. Donna J. Smiedt has been in practice since 1986 and is a Board Certified Family Law Attorney – Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Her other professional affiliations include:

  • Texas Bar College
  • Arlington Bar Association
  • Tarrant County Bar Association
  • Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists

To schedule a consultation at our Arlington or Southlake, TX, law firm, contact us online or call (817) 572-9900.

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