The imminent divorce of San Antonio Spurs star Tony Parker from his wife, television star Eva Longoria, has been the talk of Texas, and much of the nation for the past several weeks. While many of the “news items” surrounding the couple’s impending divorce are more scandalous in nature, one item in particular is worth exploring in greater detail.
Two weeks ago, Parker filed for divorce here in the state of Texas, while his soon-to-be former wife Longoria filed for divorce in the state of California two days prior. The question then to be asked is: Why would Parker want to file for divorce here in Texas?
Interestingly enough, his reasoning likely has something to do with Texas’ somewhat inflexible alimony/spousal support laws and its minimal time constraints concerning uncontested divorce.
Uncontested Divorce
If Parker and Longoria’s divorce does take place in Texas – yet to be determined – and they are able to agree on all major issues (including property division and alimony/spousal maintenance, etc.), then the couple would be able to secure an uncontested divorce.
Some of the advantages of uncontested divorce include:
- Preservation of the relationship: Since couples avoid a lengthy and potentially unpleasant courtroom battle, there is a much better chance that they can maintain a civil relationship moving forward
- Time: Uncontested divorces can be finalized in Texas in 60 days. This makes sense since all major issues have been agreed upon by the couple and contested hearings are unnecessary
- Expenses: As previously stated, since all important issues were resolved by the couple in advance, legal expenses will likely be kept to a minimum
Alimony/Spousal Support
As Parker is likely well aware, it can be very difficult for a former spouse to secure alimony/spousal support in Texas. In fact, it is generally only awarded in the following circumstances:
- A former spouse has been convicted of a crime of family violence
- The couple has been married for at least 10 years
In California, however, where a court may award alimony/spousal support based upon consideration of several factors, including:
- The number of years the couple has been married
- The standard of living to which the spouse has become accustomed
- Each spouse’s income earning ability
In light of Texas’ more favorable divorce laws, it is easy to see why Parker might want to file for divorce here in Texas.
Stay tuned for more from our Ft. Worth family law blog …
To learn more about divorce or life after divorce, contact an experienced and skilled legal professional.
This post is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.
Related Resources:
Tony Parker Files For Divorce from Eva Longoria, Texas-Style (The Los Angeles Times)
