The Judge decides the value of the property, based on the evidence, when there is a dispute. The Judge can divide only the parties' community property. The Judge cannot take away a spouse's separate property. If you have made contributions to your retirement plan during your marriage, the Court considers that as deferred income. Under community property laws, your spouse will be entitled to of the contributions made during the marriage and any growth on that contribution.
Alimony is periodic payments from one former spouse for the support of the other former spouse.
Yes, but it is called by different names. The Judge shall set a period of time, not to exceed three years, unless the former spouse cannot become self-supporting due to an incapacitation physical or mental disability. Court-ordered maintenance is a law which went into effect in Texas in 1995. However, one of the parents in a joint custody situation must have the primary rights, including the right to determine the child's residence. Usually the parent who has been the primary caretaker of the children will be named the primary joint managing conservator.