Alimony Modification Lawyer Virginia Beach — Can Your Spousal Support Be Changed?
If your financial situation has changed, you may need an alimony modification lawyer Virginia Beach. Virginia law allows spousal support orders to be modified under specific circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has experience handling modification cases in Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
Virginia Law on Modifying Alimony
In Virginia, spousal support (alimony) is governed by statute, and the court retains the power to modify support orders. The primary statute is Va. Code § 20-109, which outlines when a court can modify or terminate spousal support. A key requirement is a material change in circumstances that warrants a change in the support amount. This change must be substantial and not anticipated at the time of the original decree. The court will also consider the factors originally used to set support under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 20-109 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For local court procedures, visit the Virginia Beach Circuit Court website.
The Process to Modify Alimony in Virginia Beach
To modify spousal support lawyer Virginia Beach, you must file a formal petition with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. The process begins with demonstrating a material change in circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in either party’s income, job loss, retirement, or a change in health. The court will not modify an order based on changes that were foreseeable when the original agreement was made.
- Consult with an Attorney: Review your original order and current finances with a lawyer to assess the strength of your case.
- Gather Documentation: Collect evidence of the material change (e.g., new employment records, medical bills, proof of cohabitation).
- File a Petition: Your attorney will draft and file a formal petition to modify spousal support with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court clerk.
- Serve the Other Party: The petition must be legally served on your former spouse or their attorney.
- Attend Hearings: The court may schedule hearings for temporary orders and will hold a final hearing to decide the modification.
- Court Order: If the judge agrees a material change exists, they will issue a new order modifying the alimony amount or terms.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep involvement in the evolution of Virginia family law. We understand the financial and personal stakes involved in seeking to modify an alimony order.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of advocating for clients in family law matters. In Virginia Beach, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients seeking to modify spousal support orders. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides oversight and strategic insight on complex modification cases, ensuring a thorough approach.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Beach Alimony Modification Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters in Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways.
Alimony modification lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Town Center. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Virginia Beach Alimony Modification FAQs
What is considered a “material change” to modify alimony in Virginia?
It depends. A material change is a significant, unforeseen change in circumstances affecting either party’s financial need or ability to pay. Common examples include involuntary job loss, a substantial increase in income, serious illness, or the supported spouse cohabiting with a new partner.
Can I modify alimony if my ex-spouse gets a better job?
Yes. A significant increase in the paying spouse’s income can be grounds to seek an increase in support, just as a decrease can be grounds to seek a reduction. The key is proving the change is substantial and not temporary.
How long does it take to modify a spousal support order?
The timeline varies. After filing a petition in Virginia Beach Circuit Court, it may take several months to schedule hearings and receive a final order. The complexity of the case and the court’s docket influence the duration.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my alimony order?
It is highly advisable. The legal standards for modification are specific, and the process involves formal court filings and evidence presentation. An experienced modify alimony order lawyer Virginia Beach can properly prepare your case and advocate for your interests.
Can alimony be terminated completely?
Yes. Spousal support can be terminated upon proof of a material change, such as the supported spouse’s remarriage or cohabitation in a relationship analogous to marriage, as defined under Virginia law.
Related Legal Help in Virginia Beach
If you are dealing with other family law issues, we also assist with Virginia divorce and family law. For matters in nearby areas, consider our help for family law in Henrico County. We also handle criminal defense in Virginia Beach.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.