If you are seeking or contesting spousal support in Arlington County, Virginia law under Va. Code § 20-107.1 considers 13 factors for alimony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. Our team includes a former prosecutor who personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Spousal support, also called alimony or spousal maintenance, is governed by Virginia Code § 20-107.1. Unlike equitable distribution of property, spousal support is based on need and ability to pay. The court examines 13 statutory factors including the duration of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and contributions as a homemaker. Virginia does not guarantee alimony in any divorce — it is awarded only when the court finds it appropriate under the circumstances. An Alimony Lawyer Arlington County can help you understand how these factors apply to your specific situation.
For those seeking a spousal support lawyer Arlington County, the process involves filing a motion for pendente lite (temporary) support or requesting permanent support as part of the final divorce decree. The court may award spousal support for a defined duration or indefinitely, depending on the length of the marriage and other circumstances. A spousal maintenance lawyer Arlington County can advise on whether you qualify for support and what amount is reasonable under Virginia law.
For the full text of the spousal support statute, visit the Virginia General Assembly website. For court procedures and forms, see the Arlington County General District Court website.
- File a complaint for divorce or a motion for pendente lite spousal support at the Arlington County Circuit Court, 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400.
- Complete and exchange financial disclosure affidavits (Form DC-313) with your spouse or their attorney within 21 days of the hearing date.
- Attend mediation if ordered by the court — Arlington County encourages alternative dispute resolution before contested hearings.
- Present evidence at the pendente lite hearing showing your monthly expenses, your spouse’s income, and the standard of living during the marriage.
- If the court awards temporary support, comply with the order while the divorce proceeds toward final resolution.
- At the final divorce hearing, the court determines permanent spousal support based on the 13 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.1.
In Arlington County, spousal support is not a penalty but a financial remedy. Non-payment of court-ordered support can result in contempt of court, wage garnishment, and potential jail time.
| Issue | Classification | Duration | Amount | Modification | Tax Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pendente lite support | Temporary court order | Until final divorce decree | Based on need and ability to pay | Modifiable upon showing changed circumstances | Taxable to recipient (pre-2019 agreements may differ) |
| Permanent spousal support | Final court order | Defined duration or indefinite | Based on 13 statutory factors | Modifiable upon material change in circumstances | Not taxable for agreements after 2018 |
| Lump-sum spousal support | Final court order | Single payment | Negotiated or court-ordered amount | Not modifiable | Not taxable to recipient |
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 across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute — a credential that distinguishes the firm in family law matters. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.”
In Arlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These include dismissals and favorable dispositions in Arlington County General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Firm-wide, the firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington Location
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County Courthouse, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. We serve clients throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Searching for an Alimony Lawyer Arlington County near you? We are located minutes from the Courthouse metro station.
How long does spousal support last in Arlington County?
It depends. For marriages under 5 years, support typically lasts 25-50% of the marriage duration. For marriages over 20 years, support may be indefinite. The court considers all 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
Can I modify my spousal support order in Arlington County?
Yes. Either party can request modification upon showing a material change in circumstances, such as job loss, retirement, or cohabitation. The court reviews the change and may adjust or terminate support.
Is adultery a factor in spousal support decisions in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, adultery is one of the 13 factors the court considers. Adultery by the supported spouse may bar or limit spousal support, while adultery by the paying spouse may increase support.
How is spousal support calculated in Arlington County?
No fixed formula exists. The court examines 13 factors including each spouse’s income, earning capacity, standard of living during marriage, and contributions as a homemaker. Judges have broad discretion in setting the amount.
Do I need a lawyer for a spousal support case in Arlington County?
Yes. Spousal support involves complex financial disclosures, court procedures, and negotiation. An experienced attorney can help you present evidence of need or ability to pay and protect your rights under Virginia law.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.