
In Manassas, spousal support (alimony) is determined under Va. Code § 20-107.1 using 13 statutory factors. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. An Alimony Lawyer Manassas can help you understand your rights to support or your obligation to pay.
Virginia Spousal Support Law in Manassas
Virginia law allows spousal support (also called spousal maintenance) for a spouse who lacks sufficient property or income to provide for their reasonable needs. The court considers 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the duration of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and contributions as a homemaker. Support can be awarded pendente lite (temporary during the divorce) or as a final award. Mr. Sris, founder of the firm, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For the official text of Virginia’s spousal support statute, see Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures in Manassas, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Insider Knowledge: How Manassas Courts Handle Spousal Support
Manassas Circuit Court handles all spousal support determinations within divorce cases. The court applies the 13 statutory factors from Va. Code § 20-107.1. Judges in the 31st Judicial District often focus on the length of the marriage and each spouse’s earning capacity. A spousal support lawyer Manassas knows how local judges typically weigh these factors.
- File for Divorce: File a complaint for divorce at Manassas Circuit Court, 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. Include a request for spousal support.
- Request Temporary Support: File a pendente lite motion for temporary spousal support. The court typically schedules a hearing within 21-60 days.
- Complete Financial Disclosure: Both parties must file a VS-16 financial statement detailing income, expenses, assets, and debts. Incomplete disclosure can lead to delays.
- Attend Mediation (Optional): While not mandatory in Virginia, mediation can help resolve support issues without a trial. Mediation costs $100-$300 per hour per party.
- Final Hearing or Agreement: The court issues a final support order after trial or approves a signed property settlement agreement. A spousal maintenance lawyer Manassas can negotiate terms favorable to you.
In Manassas, spousal support violations can result in contempt of court, wage garnishment, and other enforcement actions.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Consequence | Duration | Additional Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Pay Court-Ordered Support | Civil Contempt | Fines, wage garnishment, bank levy | Until arrears paid | Credit damage, license suspension |
| Modification of Support | Motion to Modify | Increase or decrease based on changed circumstances | Ongoing | Requires proof of material change |
| Enforcement of Arrears | Civil Action | Judgment for unpaid amounts, interest | Until satisfied | Can include attorney fees |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Manassas Alimony Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute — a rare achievement that demonstrates deep understanding of Virginia family law. The firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes Samantha Rae Powers, a VA-licensed attorney with 18+ years of experience and a Ph.D. in Communication, who leads our Virginia family law practice.
Samantha Rae Powers — Of Counsel, Family Law
VA Bar 2023 | FL Bar 2005 | J.D./M.A. University of Florida 2005 | Ph.D. Communication UCSB 2017 | 18+ years experience. Ms. Powers leads the firm’s Virginia family law practice, handling divorce, spousal support, child custody, and equitable distribution matters. She brings a case-specific approach to each client’s situation.
Case Results in Manassas Family Law
SRIS actively practices in Manassas. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY. Our attorneys have experience with spousal support cases in Manassas Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Manassas-Area Location
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), approximately 12 miles from the courthouse via I-66 and Route 28.
Looking for a spousal support lawyer near Manassas? We serve Manassas and surrounding communities including Manassas Park, Gainesville, and Haymarket.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alimony in Manassas
How long does spousal support last in Manassas, Virginia?
It depends. For marriages under 20 years, support typically lasts 50% of the marriage length. For marriages over 20 years, support may be permanent. The court considers 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1. An Alimony Lawyer Manassas can estimate duration based on your specific circumstances.
Can spousal support be modified in Manassas?
Yes. Either party can request modification if there is a material change in circumstances, such as job loss, remarriage, or significant income change. The court reviews the 13 factors again. A spousal support lawyer Manassas can help file the motion at Manassas Circuit Court.
Is spousal support taxable in Virginia?
No. For divorce agreements executed after December 31, 2018, spousal support is not tax-deductible for the payer and not taxable income for the recipient. This is a change under federal tax law. A spousal maintenance lawyer Manassas can explain the tax implications of your support agreement.
How is spousal support calculated in Manassas?
Virginia does not have a formula for spousal support. The court considers 13 factors including each spouse’s income, earning capacity, standard of living during marriage, and contributions as a homemaker. An Alimony Lawyer Manassas can help present evidence to support your position.
What happens if my ex-spouse stops paying alimony in Manassas?
You can file a motion for contempt at Manassas Circuit Court. The court can order wage garnishment, bank levy, or even jail time for willful non-payment. A spousal support lawyer Manassas can help enforce your support order quickly.
For more information about Virginia family law, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. For neighboring localities, see our Fairfax County family law page or Prince William County family law page. For other legal needs in Manassas, see our Manassas criminal defense lawyer page.
Learn more about our team: Kristen Fisher profile.
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.