In Fairfax County, a divorce decree modification under Va. Code § 20-107.3 allows changes to spousal support, child support, or custody when circumstances change. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1789+ documented case results firm-wide. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Fairfax County can evaluate your situation.
What Is a Divorce Decree Modification in Fairfax County?
A divorce decree modification is a legal process to change the terms of your final divorce order. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), § 20-108.1 (child support), and § 20-124.2 (custody), the court can modify support, custody, or property division when there is a material change in circumstances. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving him unique insight into this statute. The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly statutes
Divorce Decree Modification Under Virginia Law
A divorce decree modification specifically refers to changing the terms of a final divorce order after the court has entered it. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3, the court retains jurisdiction to modify spousal support based on a material change in circumstances. For child support modifications, Va. Code § 20-108.1 applies. This differs from an initial divorce filing, where no prior order exists. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Fairfax County can explain which statute applies to your situation.
Review the official statutes: Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution) and the Fairfax County General District Court website for procedural information.
Insider Procedural Edge: Modifying Your Divorce Decree in Fairfax County
Fairfax County Circuit Court handles all divorce decree modifications. The court requires proof of a material change in circumstances since the original order. Judges in the 19th Judicial District expect detailed financial affidavits and supporting documentation.
- Gather documentation showing the change in circumstances (job loss, income change, relocation).
- File a motion to modify with the Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road.
- Serve the other party with the motion and supporting documents.
- Attend a pendente lite hearing for temporary relief if needed.
- Participate in mediation if the court orders it.
- Present your case at a final hearing before a judge.
In Fairfax County, failing to comply with a divorce decree can result in contempt of court, fines, and potential jail time.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Consequences | Court |
|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to pay spousal support | Contempt of court | Fines, wage garnishment, jail up to 12 months | Fairfax County Circuit Court |
| Failure to pay child support | Contempt of court | License suspension, wage garnishment, jail up to 12 months | Fairfax County J&DR Court |
| Violation of custody order | Contempt of court | Custody modification, fines, jail up to 12 months | Fairfax County J&DR Court |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Divorce Decree Modification?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs property division and spousal support modifications in Virginia. This is a documented, real-world achievement that no other firm can claim. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Fairfax County from our team understands the local court procedures and judges.
Case Results in Fairfax County Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1789 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 97% favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, our family law team has handled numerous divorce decree modifications involving complex equitable distribution, business valuation, and retirement asset division.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax County Location
Our Fairfax location is minutes from the Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Decree Modification in Fairfax County
Can I modify my divorce decree in Fairfax County?
Yes. You can modify spousal support, child support, or custody if you show a material change in circumstances since the original order. File your motion at Fairfax County Circuit Court or J&DR Court depending on the issue.
How long does a divorce decree modification take in Fairfax County?
It depends. Uncontested modifications with agreement: 2-4 months. Contested modifications requiring a hearing: 6-12 months. Emergency motions for temporary relief: 21-60 days for a pendente lite hearing.
What is a material change in circumstances for modification?
A material change includes job loss, significant income change, relocation, remarriage, cohabitation, health issues, or changes in a child’s needs. The change must be substantial and not anticipated at the time of the original order.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my divorce decree in Fairfax County?
Yes. Virginia family law is complex, and the court requires proper documentation and legal arguments. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Fairfax County can prepare your motion, gather evidence, and represent you at hearings.
Can I modify child support without going to court?
Yes, if both parents agree. You can file a consent order with the court. If you disagree, you must file a motion and attend a hearing. The court uses Virginia child support guidelines to calculate the new amount.
How much does it cost to modify a divorce decree in Fairfax County?
Filing fees: approximately $86 for the motion. Service of process: $12 (sheriff) to $100 (private). Attorney fees vary. Mediation: $100-$300 per hour per party. Guardian ad Litem for custody: $500-$2,500+.
Learn more about our Virginia family law services. We also serve Fairfax City and Falls Church. For other legal needs in Fairfax County, see our criminal defense and DUI/DWI pages. Meet our attorney: Bryan Block. Visit our Fairfax office location.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.