Alimony Modification Lawyer Virginia, VA

Alimony modification can become necessary when life circumstances change after a spousal support order has been entered. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle alimony modification matters throughout Virginia. Under Va. Code § 20‑107.1, a Virginia court may modify spousal support if the party seeking modification demonstrates a material change in circumstances — for example, a significant change in income, employment status, or the needs of either party. Whether you are seeking to reduce or increase an existing support obligation, working with an experienced family law attorney can help you present a clear record to the court. Our firm was founded in 1997 and serves clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

On this page

Understanding Alimony Modification in Virginia

In Virginia, spousal support orders — whether reached by agreement or imposed by the court — are binding. However, the law recognizes that circumstances change. Under Va. Code § 20‑107.1, the court may modify a support obligation upon a showing of a material change in circumstances that was not contemplated at the time of the original order. The statute lists factors the court considers, including each party’s current income, earning capacity, reasonable needs, and the duration of the support payments already made. No single factor is dispositive; the court weighs all relevant evidence before reaching a decision.

Alimony modification actions are filed in the circuit court that entered the original divorce decree. Because these proceedings require the moving party to prove a substantial change, careful preparation of financial documentation and testimony is essential. Evidence of job loss, a medical condition, retirement, remarriage, or a significant change in the cost of living may support a modification claim. Even when both parties agree that support should change, the court must still approve any modification to ensure it is fair under the statutory factors. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help you evaluate whether your circumstances warrant a modification filing and guide you through each step of the process.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Approach Alimony Modification Cases

Every modification case begins with a thorough review of the existing support order and a detailed analysis of the changes that have occurred. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with you to identify the facts that meet the legal standard for modification under Va. Code § 20‑107.1 and gather the documentation needed to support your position — tax returns, pay stubs, medical records, retirement account statements, and other relevant evidence.

From there, the firm’s approach focuses on resolution. In many cases, the parties can negotiate a modified support arrangement through their attorneys without the need for a contested hearing. When agreement is not possible, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare the matter for presentation to the circuit court. The firm’s attorneys are experienced in Virginia family law proceedings and work to present your evidence in a clear and organized manner. Because modification outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case, past results do not predict future outcomes; the firm is committed to working toward a resolution that reflects your current circumstances. To discuss your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he brings a practical understanding of courtroom dynamics to family law matters. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience to alimony modification cases throughout Virginia. Results may vary.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are independent lawyers who work collaboratively with Mr. Sris on family law matters. Together, they handle contested and uncontested modification proceedings, drawing on decades of collective experience in Virginia’s circuit courts. The firm serves clients from its Fairfax location and by appointment at other Virginia locations. Whether your case involves a straightforward post-divorce adjustment or a complex dispute over hidden income, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to assist.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is alimony modification in Virginia?

Alimony modification is a court‑ordered change to an existing spousal support obligation, available when a material change in circumstances has occurred since the original order. Under Va. Code § 20‑107.1, either the paying or receiving spouse may ask the circuit court to increase, decrease, or terminate support. The moving party must show that the change was not anticipated when the original support was set. Common triggering events include a significant change in income, involuntary job loss, disability, retirement, or a change in the needs of the supported spouse.

What must I prove to modify alimony in Virginia?

You must demonstrate to the court that a material change in circumstances has occurred that justifies a revision of the existing support order. The change must be substantial and not contemplated at the time of the original decree. Under Va. Code § 20‑107.1, the court examines factors including each party’s current financial resources, earning ability, health, and the overall equities of the situation. An experienced family law attorney can help you collect the evidence needed to meet this burden.

Do I need a lawyer to modify alimony in Virginia?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to seek or oppose an alimony modification, but having experienced legal representation can protect your interests. Modification proceedings require a clear presentation of financial facts and application of the statutory factors. An attorney can help you avoid procedural missteps, properly value income and assets, and negotiate a resolution when possible. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle alimony modification matters across Virginia.

How long does an alimony modification case take in Virginia?

The timeline for an alimony modification case depends on court scheduling and the complexity of the issues, and it can range from several months to over a year in contested matters. Uncontested modifications, where both parties agree, may be resolved more quickly once filed. When the parties disagree, the case moves through the court’s motion docket and, if necessary, a trial. The court’s calendar in your circuit will influence how quickly a hearing can be set.

Can alimony be terminated if the supported spouse remarries?

Yes, under Virginia law, spousal support generally terminates automatically when the supported spouse remarries, unless the support order or a written agreement provides otherwise. If the order or agreement does not address remarriage, the obligation ends by operation of law. Co-habitation in a relationship analogous to marriage may also be a ground to seek reduction or termination, but it requires a court finding. Because each case depends on the language of the order, consulting with an attorney is recommended.

How does the court determine the amount of modified alimony?

The court uses the factors listed in Va. Code § 20‑107.1 to re‑evaluate the appropriate support amount based on the parties’ current circumstances. These factors include each party’s present income, earning capacity, reasonable living expenses, the duration of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, and the contributions each party made to the family. The court may also consider any supporting party’s ability to pay and the receiving party’s need. The goal is a fair result under the current facts, not simply a mathematical adjustment.

What if my former spouse hides income or assets?

If you suspect that income or assets are being concealed, you may need to conduct formal discovery — such as interrogatories, document requests, or depositions — to uncover the true financial picture. Virginia courts have the authority to compel full disclosure. Inaccurate or incomplete financial statements can lead to sanctions and may support a modification. An attorney can help you identify red flags and pursue the necessary discovery to bring hidden resources to light.

Can child support and alimony be modified in the same case?

Yes, child support and spousal support are separate obligations, and a court can modify both if a material change in circumstances is shown for each. However, the legal standards differ: child support modification is governed by Va. Code §§ 20‑108.1 and 20‑108.2, while alimony modification follows § 20‑107.1. Even if both are addressed in the same proceeding, you must meet the burden for each type of support. An attorney can evaluate whether filing a single combined motion is efficient in your situation.

Is alimony modification different from alimony enforcement?

Yes, modification changes the amount or duration of support going forward, while enforcement seeks compliance with an existing support obligation that is already due. If a former spouse has failed to pay ordered alimony, enforcement tools such as income withholding, contempt proceedings, or judgment liens may be available. If circumstances have changed, you may simultaneously seek modification to adjust future payments. These two remedies address different problems and can sometimes be pursued together. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

How do I start an alimony modification case in Virginia?

You begin by filing a petition or motion for modification in the circuit court that entered your original divorce decree, along with a statement of the changed circumstances. The court will then set a hearing schedule. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can prepare and file the necessary pleadings, manage service of process, and represent you at all court appearances. Because procedural requirements vary by circuit, having an experienced Virginia family law attorney can help the matter move forward efficiently.

Related Virginia Family Law Practice Areas

Our firm helps clients with a range of related matters across Virginia. Learn more about these areas:

The firm also serves clients in specific Virginia localities, including Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Loudoun County. For a full discussion of your alimony modification matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Outbound Primary Sources

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.

Practicing since 1997 · Virginia family law

(888) 437-7747