In Virginia, permanent alimony (indefinite spousal support) is available under Va. Code § 20-107.1 for marriages lasting 15+ years. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Permanent Alimony Lawyer Virginia can help you pursue or contest long-term support. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law provides for spousal support under Va. Code § 20-107.1. The court considers 13 factors to determine whether to award permanent alimony, including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, and their standard of living during the marriage. A Permanent Alimony Lawyer Virginia understands that indefinite spousal support is not automatic — the court has discretion based on these statutory factors. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep familiarity with Virginia family law.
For the full text of Virginia’s spousal support statute, see Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
- File a complaint for spousal support in the appropriate Circuit Court.
- Serve the other spouse with the complaint and summons.
- Attend a pendente lite hearing for temporary support if needed.
- Exchange financial disclosures including tax returns and pay stubs.
- Participate in mediation or settlement negotiations.
- Proceed to trial if no agreement is reached; the court applies the 13 statutory factors.
In Virginia, spousal support is determined by the court under Va. Code § 20-107.1. There is no fixed penalty — the amount and duration depend on the 13 statutory factors.
| Issue | Classification | Duration | Amount | Modification | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent Alimony | Equitable remedy | Indefinite (until death, remarriage, or cohabitation) | Based on 13 factors | Modifiable upon material change in circumstances | Tax treatment changed under federal law |
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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), a unique credential that demonstrates deep experience in Virginia family law. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris (Owner & CEO, Managing Attorney) also handles family law cases. He is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997 and personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results include family law cases involving spousal support, equitable distribution, and child custody.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients across Virginia, accessible via I-66, I-495, and Route 50.
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How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested divorce: 2-4 months. Contested divorce: 9-18 months. Complex cases: 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. Circuit Court filing fee: approximately $86. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300/hour). Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Custody is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role and the child’s relationship with each parent. Fairfax County J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Fairfax County Circuit Court.
What is permanent alimony in Virginia?
Permanent alimony (indefinite spousal support) is ongoing support paid to a former spouse. It is available under Va. Code § 20-107.1 for long-term marriages (15+ years). The court considers 13 factors to determine eligibility and amount.
Can permanent alimony be modified in Virginia?
Yes. Permanent alimony can be modified upon a material change in circumstances, such as job loss, illness, or remarriage. Either party can file a motion to modify. The court reviews the change and adjusts the support order accordingly.
How is permanent alimony different from temporary spousal support?
Temporary spousal support (pendente lite) is paid during the divorce proceedings. Permanent alimony is awarded after the divorce is finalized and continues indefinitely. Permanent alimony is based on the 13 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.1.
Learn more about Virginia Family Law Lawyer. For nearby localities, see Henrico County divorce lawyer and Chesterfield County divorce lawyer. For related practice areas, see Alimony Lawyer Virginia.
Visit our Richmond office location for in-person meetings by appointment only.
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.