Alimony Modification Lawyer Lexington — How to Change Your Spousal Support Order
If you need to modify an alimony order in Lexington, Virginia, you must prove a material change in circumstances under Va. Code § 20-109. An alimony modification lawyer Lexington from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you file a petition in Lexington Circuit Court to change spousal support. Our firm has handled 14 documented case results in Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Modifying Alimony
In Virginia, a court can modify or terminate a spousal support award if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last support order was entered. This legal standard is codified in Va. Code § 20-109. The change must be substantial and not something that was reasonably anticipated at the time of the original decree. Common grounds for seeking a change spousal support lawyer Lexington would argue include a significant increase or decrease in either party’s income, involuntary job loss, retirement, cohabitation of the receiving spouse, or a serious health issue affecting earning capacity.
Official Resources for Lexington Cases
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 20-109. All modification petitions for Lexington are filed with the Lexington Circuit Court located at 2 South Main Street.
- Gather Documentation: Collect recent pay stubs, tax returns, medical records, or other proof of the material change.
- File a Petition: Your attorney will draft and file a Petition to Modify Spousal Support with the Lexington Circuit Court clerk.
- Serve the Other Party: The petition must be legally served on your former spouse.
- Attend Hearings: The court may schedule a pendente lite hearing for temporary orders and a final hearing.
- Present Evidence: At the final hearing, your lawyer will present evidence and arguments to support the modification.
- Obtain the New Order: If successful, the court will enter a new order officially changing the alimony terms.
What an Alimony Modification Lawyer Lexington Can Do
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. Our managing attorney, Mr. Sris, personally played a key role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep involvement in the evolution of Virginia family law. This foundational experience informs our approach to complex support modification cases.
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 Lexington
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients in Lexington. We have achieved 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in this locality with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, our team has successfully argued for the termination of spousal support based on a receiving spouse’s cohabitation and has secured reductions for payors facing involuntary unemployment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Alimony Modification Lawyer Near Lexington, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-64 and I-81. If you are searching for a spousal support modification lawyer near Lexington, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Serving the Lexington community.
FAQs About Modifying Alimony in Lexington
Can alimony be modified in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-109, alimony can be modified if there is a material change in circumstances. You must file a petition in the court that issued the original order, which for Lexington residents is Lexington Circuit Court.
What is considered a “material change” for alimony modification?
It depends. Virginia courts consider changes that are substantial, ongoing, and unforeseeable. Examples include a 15% or greater change in income, involuntary job loss, disability, the receiving spouse cohabiting with a new partner, or the payor’s retirement. A modify alimony order lawyer Lexington can evaluate if your situation meets this legal standard.
How long does an alimony modification take in Lexington?
Typically 3 to 8 months. The timeline depends on the court’s docket, whether the change is agreed upon, and if a hearing is needed. An uncontested agreement can be processed faster, while a contested hearing will take longer to schedule and conclude.
Can I stop paying alimony if I lose my job?
No. You must continue paying the court-ordered amount until a judge officially modifies the order. Stopping payments without court approval can result in contempt charges, arrears, and wage garnishment. You should immediately consult a change spousal support lawyer Lexington to file for a modification based on your job loss.
Do I need a lawyer to modify alimony?
It is highly advisable. The legal process involves filing correct pleadings, serving the other party, gathering and presenting financial evidence, and arguing complex legal standards. An experienced alimony modification lawyer Lexington from our firm can handle this process to protect your financial interests.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia family law, family law in Henrico County, and criminal defense in Lexington.
Article last updated and verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.