Roanoke County Alimony Modification Lawyer — How to Change Your Spousal Support Order
If your financial situation has changed, you may need an alimony modification lawyer Roanoke County. Virginia law allows spousal support orders to be modified under specific circumstances, such as a significant change in income or employment. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation to modify alimony orders in Roanoke County Circuit Court. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a case review.
Virginia Law on Modifying Spousal Support
In Virginia, spousal support (alimony) is governed by statute and court orders are not necessarily permanent. The court retains the authority to modify the amount, duration, or termination of a support order based on a material change in circumstances. This legal standard is designed to ensure fairness when the financial realities of either party shift substantially after the original order was entered.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 20-109 (modification of spousal support). Court procedures and forms can be found on the Virginia Judicial System website.
The Process for Modifying Alimony in Roanoke County
Successfully changing a spousal support order requires proving a material change in circumstances to the Roanoke County Circuit Court. This change must be substantial, not temporary, and not reasonably foreseen at the time of the original decree. Common grounds include involuntary job loss, a significant increase or decrease in either party’s income, disability, or retirement.
- Document the Material Change: Gather proof of the changed circumstance, such as pay stubs, termination notices, tax returns, or medical records.
- File a Petition with the Court: Your attorney will prepare and file a formal Petition to Modify Spousal Support with the Roanoke County Circuit Court clerk.
- Serve the Other Party: The petition must be legally served on your former spouse, who then has time to file a response.
- Attend Hearings: The court may schedule a hearing where both sides present evidence and arguments regarding the requested change.
- Obtain a New Order: If the court grants the modification, a new spousal support order will be issued, superseding the previous one.
Firm Authority and Experience
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to family law matters. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep commitment to shaping fair family law outcomes. We understand the financial and emotional stakes involved in seeking to modify spousal support.
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 achieving favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia. In Roanoke County and the surrounding region, we have secured modifications to spousal support orders based on demonstrated changes in financial circumstances, helping clients achieve more manageable and fair support arrangements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Roanoke County Alimony Modification Lawyers
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients with matters in Roanoke County courts. We are accessible via I-81 and Route 11.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations. Serving the communities of Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
Frequently Asked Questions: Alimony Modification in Roanoke County
Can alimony be modified in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-109, a spousal support order can be modified upon a showing of a material change in circumstances that warrants a change in the amount, duration, or termination of support.
What is considered a “material change” to modify alimony?
It depends. Virginia courts consider changes that are substantial, lasting, and unforeseen. Examples include involuntary job loss, a significant increase or decrease in income (over 25% is often a benchmark), disability, retirement, or the supported spouse cohabiting with a new partner.
How do I start the process to modify my spousal support order?
You must file a Petition to Modify Spousal Support in the Roanoke County Circuit Court that issued the original order. The process requires legal documentation, proper service on the other party, and often a court hearing. An experienced modify alimony order lawyer Roanoke County can guide you through each step.
Can alimony be increased if my ex-spouse’s income goes up?
It depends. An increase in the paying spouse’s income can be grounds for modification if it constitutes a material change and the original award was based on their lower earning capacity. The court will re-evaluate the statutory support factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
How long does an alimony modification take?
The timeline varies. An uncontested agreement can be processed in a few months. If the change is contested, the process—including discovery, negotiation, and a hearing—can take six months to a year or more in Roanoke County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer to change spousal support?
While not legally required, it is highly advisable. The legal standard for “material change” is complex. A skilled change spousal support lawyer Roanoke County can gather necessary evidence, handle court procedures, and advocate effectively for your financial interests.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on modifying alimony in Virginia.