A divorce decree modification in Prince William County requires showing a material change in circumstances under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 297 documented case results in Prince William County. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Prince William County can help you adjust custody, support, or property terms.
Virginia law allows you to modify a divorce decree when circumstances have substantially changed since the original order. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), § 20-108.1 (child support), and § 20-124.2 (custody), the court evaluates whether the change is material and involuntary. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving the firm unique insight into this statute. The firm was founded in 1997, and Mr. Sris brings former prosecutor experience to every family law case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Divorce decree modification specifically addresses changes to existing court orders for spousal support, child support, custody, or property division. Unlike an initial divorce filing, modification requires proving that circumstances have changed since the last order was entered. The court applies the same statutory factors from the original decree but weighs them against the new circumstances presented.
- Va. Code § 20-107.3 (Equitable Distribution) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Prince William County General District Court — official Virginia Courts website
In Prince William County Circuit Court, judges require specific evidence of changed circumstances — not just a desire for different terms. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue expects detailed financial affidavits and supporting documentation.
For custody modifications, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court applies the best-interest factors strictly. A material change might include a parent’s relocation, change in employment, or new living situation.
- Gather documentation showing the change in circumstances (pay stubs, medical records, school reports).
- File a motion to modify with the Prince William County Circuit Court or J&DR Court, depending on the issue.
- Serve the other party with the motion and supporting affidavits at least 21 days before the hearing.
- Attend the pendente lite hearing if temporary relief is needed while the case proceeds.
- Participate in mediation if ordered by the court — Prince William County encourages settlement.
- Present evidence at the final hearing showing why modification serves the best interests of any children or is equitable for spousal support.
In Prince William County, failing to comply with a divorce decree can result in contempt of court, with penalties including fines, jail time, and mandatory payment of attorney fees.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to pay child support | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Wage garnishment, tax refund interception |
| Failure to pay spousal support | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Wage garnishment, property liens |
| Violation of custody order | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Custody modification possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs property division in Virginia divorces. This achievement gives the firm unmatched authority in Prince William County family law matters. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides secondary oversight on all Prince William County family law cases. He personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 and has practiced family law since 1997.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 297 total documented case results across all practice areas in Prince William County, with a 97% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is approximately 15 miles from the Prince William County Circuit Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, accessible via I-66 and Route 28.
Looking for a divorce decree modification lawyer near Prince William County? We serve clients throughout the area.
We serve Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Can I modify my divorce decree in Prince William County?
Yes, you can modify a divorce decree in Prince William County if you show a material change in circumstances since the original order. File your motion at the Prince William County Circuit Court or J&DR Court depending on the issue.
How long does a divorce decree modification take in Prince William County?
It depends. Uncontested modifications with agreement from both parties can take 2-4 months. Contested modifications requiring a hearing typically take 6-12 months, especially if business valuation or complex assets are involved.
What qualifies as a material change in circumstances for modification?
A material change includes job loss, significant income change, relocation, remarriage, health issues, or changes in a child’s needs. The change must be substantial and involuntary, not something you created to modify the order.
Can I modify child support without going to court?
No, child support modifications require court approval in Virginia. You and the other parent can agree on new terms, but the court must enter a modified order. The Department of Child Support Enforcement can help with administrative modifications in some cases.
How much does it cost to modify a divorce decree in Prince William County?
Circuit Court filing fee for a modification motion is approximately $86. Additional costs include sheriff service of process ($12), private process server ($50-$100), and attorney fees. Guardian ad Litem for custody issues costs $500-$2,500+.
Is Virginia a community property state for divorce modifications?
No, Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Property division is fair but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended. Separate property is excluded from division.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.