Alimony Modification Lawyer Henrico County — How to Change Your Spousal Support Order
If your financial situation has changed, you may need an alimony modification lawyer Henrico County to petition the court. Spousal support orders under Va. Code § 20-107.1 can be modified based on a material change in circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation to seek a change spousal support lawyer Henrico County clients trust. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Modifying Alimony
In Virginia, spousal support (alimony) is governed by Va. Code § 20-107.1. The court has the authority to modify an existing alimony order if there is a material change in circumstances. This change must be significant and not anticipated at the time of the original decree. Common grounds for seeking an alimony modification lawyer Henrico County include involuntary job loss, a substantial increase or decrease in either party’s income, disability, retirement, or cohabitation of the receiving spouse. The burden of proof lies with the party requesting the modification.
It is critical to act through proper legal channels. An informal agreement between ex-spouses is not enforceable by the court. To legally modify alimony order lawyer Henrico County filings must be submitted to the Henrico County Circuit Court, which retains jurisdiction over the original divorce decree.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly site). All petitions are filed at the Henrico County Circuit Court.
- Consult with an attorney to review your original order and assess potential grounds for modification.
- Gather full financial documentation proving the material change (tax returns, pay stubs, medical records).
- Your attorney will draft and file a formal Petition to Modify Spousal Support with the Henrico County Circuit Court.
- The other party must be formally served with the petition and has the right to file a response.
- The court may schedule mediation or a hearing where both parties present evidence and arguments.
- The judge will issue a new order granting, denying, or adjusting the alimony amount.
What Constitutes a “Material Change”?
In Henrico County, a successful petition to modify alimony must demonstrate a substantial, unforeseen change in the financial needs of the recipient or the payor’s ability to pay.
| Potential Change | Impact on Modification |
|---|---|
| Involuntary Job Loss / Reduction in Income | Strong grounds for payor to seek reduction. |
| Significant Increase in Payor’s Income | Recipient may seek an increase. |
| Recipient’s Cohabitation | May be grounds for reduction or termination. |
| Retirement (Age-Appropriate) | Often justifies modification based on reduced income. |
| Disability or Serious Illness | Can impact either party’s financial picture. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Alimony Modification
Founded in 1997, 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 deep involvement in the evolution of Virginia family law. We understand the nuanced financial arguments required to modify an alimony order successfully.
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 in Henrico County
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in Henrico County courts across various practice areas. For instance, we have successfully secured dismissals in reckless driving cases and reductions in serious charges like DWI and drug possession in Henrico General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a background as a former prosecutor and a multi-state practice, provides oversight on complex financial aspects of family law modifications.
Contact Our Henrico County Alimony Modification Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
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 only. Serving Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
FAQs: Modifying Alimony in Henrico County
Can alimony be modified in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, a spousal support order can be modified if there is a material change in circumstances that was not foreseen when the original order was entered.
What is considered a “material change” for alimony modification?
It depends, but common examples include involuntary job loss, a significant change in income (increase or decrease), disability, retirement, or the receiving spouse cohabiting with a new partner. The change must be substantial and affect financial need or ability to pay.
How long does it take to modify alimony in Henrico County?
The timeline varies. An uncontested agreement can be processed in a few months. If contested, the process includes filing, discovery, and a hearing, which can take 6 to 12 months or more, depending on the court’s docket.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my alimony order?
While not legally required, it is highly advisable. The process involves complex legal standards, precise paperwork, and evidentiary rules. An experienced alimony modification lawyer Henrico County can properly present your case and protect your rights.
Can alimony be terminated completely?
Yes, under certain conditions. Virginia law allows for termination if the recipient remarries or cohabits in a relationship analogous to marriage. The payor’s death also terminates the obligation, unless the order states otherwise.
Related Legal Services: If you are dealing with other family law matters, we also assist with divorce, criminal defense, and DUI defense in Henrico County. For statewide resources, visit our Virginia Family Law hub.