What is best to do regarding my husband’s promise to continue support during our separation?
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What is best to do regarding my husband’s promise to continue support during our separation?
My husband and I have separated but have no plans for divorce yet. I haven’t worked in more than 10 years, however I’m thinking of finding something to keep myself occupied. My husband is still supporting us and he promised to do so for our 2 kids but who knows if he might change his mind. I’ve heard about
alimony/spousal support since I haven’t worked for so long. If I find a job
now, would I lose that alimony? Should I forgo that since he promised to
support us? Is there something legal to make that promise stand?
Asked on August 20, 2018 under Family Law, Texas
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
His promise to support you is not enforceable--you are relying on his good will and intentions. Maybe those are good, maybe they are not. If he stops supporting you, which he can at an time,you could file for divorce and seek alimony/spousal support--but that could take many months or years to adjudicate and resolve, and in the meantime, where you get the money to live on? People get themselves into trouble when they focus on what might be good for a future legal case rather than on what is good for their lives and finances now. Unless you are comfortable counting on your husband continuing to voluntarily support you, get a job or other means of support (e.g. rental property? a small business you create? etc.) now.
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