Alimony Modification Lawyer Virginia Beach — Can You Change Your Spousal Support Order?
If your financial situation has changed, you may need an alimony modification lawyer Virginia Beach. Virginia law allows for changes to spousal support orders under specific circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in Virginia Beach family law cases. An experienced alimony modification lawyer Virginia Beach can help you petition the court for a change based on a material change in circumstances.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Spousal support, or alimony, is a court-ordered payment from one former spouse to the other. In Virginia, these orders are governed by statute and are not necessarily permanent. The court retains the power to modify or even terminate an alimony order if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order was entered. This legal standard is the cornerstone of any request to change spousal support.
Virginia Code § 20-109 addresses the modification and termination of spousal support. It states that the court may modify an order for spousal support upon a petition of either party and a showing of a material change in circumstances. This statute provides the legal framework for seeking a change, whether you are the payor seeking a reduction or the recipient seeking an increase.
- Consult with an alimony modification lawyer Virginia Beach to review your original order and current finances.
- Gather full documentation proving the material change in circumstances (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills).
- Your attorney will draft and file a formal Petition to Modify Spousal Support with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Serve the petition on the other party, who will have an opportunity to file a response.
- Attend court hearings, which may include presenting evidence and witness testimony.
- The judge will issue a new order granting, denying, or adjusting the spousal support amount.
For official Virginia statutes, review Va. Code § 20-109 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Virginia Beach Circuit Court website.
What Constitutes a “Material Change” for Alimony Modification?
A material change in circumstances is a significant, ongoing change that was not reasonably foreseen when the last support order was entered. This is a factual determination made by the judge. Common examples that may justify modifying an alimony order include:
- A substantial increase or decrease in either party’s income (e.g., job loss, promotion, retirement).
- Remarriage or cohabitation of the support recipient in a relationship analogous to marriage.
- A significant change in the health or medical needs of either party.
- Involuntary changes in employment status.
- Changes in the tax consequences of the support payments.
It is critical to understand that voluntary changes, like quitting a job without cause, typically do not qualify as a material change and may even be viewed unfavorably by the court.
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 & Firm Authority in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Virginia Beach family law matters, we have a documented record of advocating for our clients’ financial interests. 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.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including Mr. Sris with his background in accounting and information systems, is adept at analyzing the financial details that underpin spousal support modification cases. We understand how to present financial evidence effectively to the court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment. By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters in Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways. If you are searching for a spousal support lawyer near Virginia Beach or a modify alimony order lawyer Virginia Beach, contact us for a consultation. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, Oceana, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Alimony Modification in Virginia Beach
Can alimony be modified in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-109, a court can modify a spousal support order upon a petition from either party and a showing of a material change in circumstances. The change must be significant and not temporary.
What is considered a material change for spousal support modification?
It depends. A material change is a substantial, real, and ongoing change not anticipated when the order was made. Common examples include a major change in income (job loss or promotion), the recipient’s remarriage, or a serious change in health requiring increased medical expenses.
How long does it take to modify alimony in Virginia Beach?
The timeline varies. After filing a petition with Virginia Beach Circuit Court, the process can take several months. It involves serving the other party, potential discovery, and scheduling a hearing. Contested hearings will take longer than agreed modifications.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my alimony order?
It is highly advisable. The legal standard for “material change” is complex. A change spousal support lawyer Virginia Beach can gather the necessary evidence, draft proper petitions, and advocate for you in court, significantly improving your chance of a successful modification.
Can alimony be terminated completely?
Yes. Spousal support can be terminated upon a material change, such as the recipient’s remarriage or cohabitation, or if the payor reaches retirement age as defined in the original order. The specific terms of your divorce decree are also critical.
For related legal assistance, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other legal issues, consider our Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer or Virginia Beach DUI Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.