In Virginia Beach, spousal support is determined under Va. Code § 20-107.1 using 13 statutory factors; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. An Alimony Lawyer Virginia Beach can help you pursue or defend against a support claim.
Virginia law defines spousal support (alimony) as payments from one spouse to another after separation or divorce. The court considers 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and contributions as a homemaker. A spousal support lawyer Virginia Beach can explain how these factors apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
- Va. Code § 20-107.1 (Spousal Support Factors) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Virginia Beach General District Court — Official Court Website
In Virginia Beach Circuit Court, spousal support hearings typically occur after the 6-month separation period. The court examines financial affidavits and tax returns from both parties. A spousal maintenance lawyer Virginia Beach can help prepare these documents.
- File a motion for pendente lite spousal support at Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Submit financial disclosure statements (income, expenses, assets, debts).
- Attend a hearing where the court applies the 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
- Receive a temporary support order pending final divorce.
- Finalize support terms in the divorce decree or separation agreement.
In Virginia Beach, spousal support violations can result in contempt of court penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Pay Spousal Support | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Wage garnishment, lien on property |
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 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep family law knowledge. The firm maintains a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Samantha Rae Powers — Of Counsel. Bar Admissions: Virginia (2023), Florida (2005). J.D./M.A. University of Florida (2005), Ph.D. Communication UCSB (2017). 18+ years of legal experience. Samantha handles family law matters including spousal support, divorce, and equitable distribution.
Mr. Sris, founder and managing attorney, also oversees family law cases at the firm. He brings former prosecutor experience and a deep understanding of Virginia family law statutes.
In Virginia Beach, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. Alimony Lawyer Virginia Beach near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Town Center, and Naval Air Station Oceana. Serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Q: How long does a divorce take in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested divorce: 2-4 months. Contested divorce: 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation: 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
Q: How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee: approximately $86. Sheriff service: $12. Private process server: $50-$100. Guardian ad Litem for custody: $500-$2,500+. Mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Additional costs vary by case complexity.
Q: Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property is excluded.
Q: How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Virginia Beach J&DR Court handles standalone custody.
Q: What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
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.