In Arlington County, spousal support is governed by Va. Code § 20-107.1, which considers 13 factors for awards. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. An Indefinite Alimony Lawyer Arlington County can explain how duration and amount are determined.
Virginia Spousal Support Law in Arlington County
Virginia law under Va. Code § 20-107.1 allows for spousal support awards based on 13 statutory factors, including the duration of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, and each spouse’s earning capacity. The court may award permanent spousal support (often called indefinite alimony) or limited-duration support depending on the circumstances. Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. (founded 1997), personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3) and brings former prosecutor insight to family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Alimony, also called spousal support, is distinct from child support under Virginia law. While child support follows strict guidelines under Va. Code § 20-108.1, spousal support under § 20-107.1 gives the court broader discretion based on 13 factors. A long-term alimony lawyer Arlington County understands how these factors apply to cases involving marriages of 15+ years, where indefinite support is more commonly considered.
For the official statute governing spousal support in Virginia, see Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Arlington County Circuit Court procedures, visit the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all spousal support determinations. The court applies 13 statutory factors, with no presumption for or against permanent support. Duration of marriage is often the most critical factor.
- File a complaint for spousal support at Arlington County Circuit Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400).
- Serve the other party with the complaint and summons.
- Attend pendente lite hearing (typically within 21-60 days) for temporary support.
- Exchange financial disclosures including tax returns, pay stubs, and asset statements.
- Participate in mediation if ordered or agreed upon.
- Proceed to final hearing or submit agreed order if settlement reached.
In Arlington County, spousal support violations can result in contempt of court, wage garnishment, and potential jail time for willful noncompliance.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contempt for nonpayment of spousal support | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Wage garnishment, lien on property, suspension of passport |
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 Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law. The firm’s 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. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County Courthouse, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. As an Indefinite Alimony Lawyer Arlington County, we serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
Can spousal support be modified in Arlington County?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-109, spousal support can be modified upon a showing of a material change in circumstances, such as job loss, remarriage, or cohabitation.
How long does indefinite alimony last in Virginia?
It depends. Indefinite spousal support continues until either party dies, the recipient remarries, or the court finds a material change in circumstances justifying modification or termination.
Is alimony tax deductible in Virginia?
No. For divorce agreements executed after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are not tax deductible for the payer nor taxable income for the recipient under federal law.
What factors does Arlington County Circuit Court consider for spousal support?
The court considers 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including marriage duration, standard of living, earning capacity, age, physical condition, and contributions as a homemaker.
Can I get spousal support if I committed adultery in Virginia?
It depends. Adultery by the requesting spouse is a bar to spousal support under Va. Code § 20-107.1, but the court may award support if the adultery was condoned or if denying support would be unconscionable.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.