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In Arlington County, permanent alimony (indefinite spousal support) is governed by Va. Code § 20-107.1, considering 13 factors. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. A Permanent Alimony Lawyer Arlington County can help you seek or defend against long-term maintenance.
Virginia Spousal Support Law & Permanent Alimony
Under Virginia law, spousal support (alimony) is not a guaranteed right. The court may award permanent alimony—also called indefinite spousal support—when a spouse cannot become self-supporting due to age, disability, or child-rearing responsibilities. The key statute is Va. Code § 20-107.1, which lists 13 factors the court must consider, including the duration of the marriage, the financial resources of each party, and the standard of living during the marriage. A Permanent Alimony Lawyer Arlington County understands how these factors apply in the Arlington County Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For permanent alimony specifically, the court applies the same 13-factor test but with a focus on the duration of need. Unlike short-term rehabilitative support, permanent alimony is reserved for cases where the requesting spouse is unlikely to achieve financial independence. The indefinite spousal support lawyer Arlington County must demonstrate that the need is long-term and that the paying spouse has the ability to pay.
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 20-107.1 (Spousal Support Factors) — Virginia General Assembly
- Arlington County General District Court — Official Website
Insider Procedural Edge for Permanent Alimony in Arlington County
In Arlington County Circuit Court, judges often require a detailed financial statement (VS-1) and a statement of income and expenses. The court also considers the tax consequences of any support award.
- File a Complaint or Counterclaim: Your Permanent Alimony Lawyer Arlington County will file the initial pleading in Arlington County Circuit Court.
- Disclosure of Financial Information: Both parties must exchange tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements within 21 days.
- Attend Pendente Lite Hearing: A temporary support hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of the motion.
- Mediation or Settlement Conference: The court may order mediation to try to resolve support issues without trial.
- Final Hearing: If no settlement is reached, a trial is held where the judge applies the 13 factors of Va. Code § 20-107.1.
- Entry of Final Order: The judge issues a final order specifying the amount, duration, and terms of spousal support.
In Arlington County, permanent alimony is not a penalty but a civil remedy. Non-payment of court-ordered support can result in contempt of court.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Pay Spousal Support (Contempt) | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months (coercive) | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension of driver’s license | Wage garnishment, lien on property, credit damage |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Arlington County Alimony Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have 115 documented case results in Arlington County alone. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law. Our team includes Samantha Powers, a dedicated family law attorney with 18+ years of experience, who leads our Arlington County family law practice.
Samantha Rae Powers — Of Counsel, Family Law
Bar Admissions: Virginia (2023), Florida (2005). J.D./M.A. University of Florida (2005), Ph.D. Communication UCSB (2017). 18+ years of legal experience. Samantha focuses exclusively on family law matters in Virginia, including complex spousal support and equitable distribution cases.
Arlington County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable settlements. Our long-term spousal maintenance lawyer Arlington County has helped clients secure or defend against permanent alimony awards.
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 in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Searching for a Permanent Alimony Lawyer Arlington County near you? We are conveniently located near the Courthouse metro station.
Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Alimony in Arlington County
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes. Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party.
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).
How is child custody decided in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. Custody in Arlington County is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse.
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).
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