Arlington County Alimony Modification Lawyer — Can Your Spousal Support Be Changed?
If your financial situation has changed, you may need an alimony modification lawyer Arlington County. Virginia law under Va. Code § 20-107.3 allows for changes to spousal support orders based on a material change in circumstances. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented results in Arlington County. Our family law team can help you modify an alimony order or change spousal support.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Modifying Spousal Support
In Virginia, spousal support (alimony) is governed by statute. The court can modify an existing support order if there is a material change in circumstances that warrants a change. This change must be substantial and not temporary. The party seeking the modification must file a petition with the court that issued the original order, which for Arlington County is the Arlington County Circuit Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in the evolution of family law in the state.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Arlington County Circuit Court website.
How to Seek an Alimony Modification in Arlington County
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all petitions to modify spousal support. The process requires demonstrating a material change in circumstances, such as a significant increase or decrease in income, job loss, retirement, or a change in the supported spouse’s needs. The court will review the 13 statutory factors for spousal support under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
- Consult with an attorney to assess if your situation meets the legal standard for a material change.
- Gather financial documentation proving the change (tax returns, pay stubs, medical bills).
- Your attorney will draft and file a petition to modify spousal support with the Arlington County Circuit Court.
- Serve the petition on the other party, who will have an opportunity to respond.
- Attend a hearing where both parties present evidence and arguments to the judge.
- The judge will issue a new order either granting or denying the requested modification.
Potential Outcomes and Considerations
In Arlington County, a successful petition to modify spousal support can result in an increase, decrease, or termination of payments, depending on the evidence presented.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
Experience with Arlington County Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have a documented record of handling family law matters in Arlington County. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Our team includes Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who provides strategic oversight on complex family law matters.
Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include matters in Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Arlington County Alimony Modification Lawyer
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a material change for alimony modification in Virginia?
It depends. A material change is a substantial, long-term shift in circumstances affecting the need for or ability to pay support. Examples include involuntary job loss, a significant increase in income, serious illness, or retirement.
Can I modify an alimony order in Arlington County if I lose my job?
Yes, if the job loss is involuntary and constitutes a material change. You must file a petition with the Arlington County Circuit Court and provide evidence of the job loss and your efforts to find new employment.
How long does it take to modify spousal support in Arlington County?
The timeline varies. An uncontested agreement can be processed in a few months. A contested hearing can take 6-12 months or longer, depending on the court’s docket and the complexity of the financial issues.
Do I need a lawyer to modify an alimony order?
While not legally required, it is highly advisable. An experienced modify alimony order lawyer Arlington County can handle the procedural rules, gather necessary evidence, and present a compelling case to the court.
Can alimony be increased in Virginia?
Yes. If the receiving spouse can demonstrate a material increase in need or a decrease in their ability to support themselves, and the paying spouse has an increased ability to pay, the court may grant an increase.
What if my ex-spouse refuses to pay the modified alimony?
You can file an enforcement action (contempt) with the court. The court can use various remedies to compel payment, including wage garnishment, liens, or even jail time for willful non-compliance.
For related legal help, see our pages on Virginia Family Law, Family Law Lawyer in Alexandria, and Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.