In Texas most cases, alimony is limited to three years because it is supposed to be temporary. Alimony is only awarded if a spouse who has been married for at least 10 years cannot support herself or himself, or if there is domestic violence and the violent spouse is convicted during the divorce case. This being said, marital fault can be considered when the court determines an alimony award and this is not limited to just the spouse who may or may not be the obligor (payor).