Family Law Services
Spousal Support & Alimony Lawyer in Fredericksburg, Virginia
Alimony, also known as spousal support, may be awarded in a Virginia divorce to help one spouse maintain financial stability after separation. Whether you may pay support or receive it, you likely have questions about eligibility, duration, and how support is calculated.
Shawna L. Stevens PLLC helps clients throughout Fredericksburg, Stafford County, and Spotsylvania County understand their options and pursue practical outcomes in spousal support matters.
Shawna L. Stevens
Spousal Support & Family Law Attorney • Fredericksburg, VA
Types of Support • Factors Courts Consider • Tax Considerations • Modification • FAQs • Contact
Types of Alimony and Spousal Support in Virginia
Virginia law recognizes several types of spousal support. The type of support involved can affect how long support lasts and what evidence is important in your case.
Temporary (Pendente Lite) Support
Temporary support may be awarded while the divorce is pending to help a spouse meet immediate financial needs until the court enters a final order.
Rehabilitative Support
Rehabilitative support may help a spouse obtain education, training, or work experience needed to become financially independent over time.
Permanent Support
In certain situations, longer-term support may be awarded when appropriate based on the length of the marriage and other statutory considerations.
Reimbursement Support
Reimbursement support may apply when one spouse supported the other spouse’s education or career advancement during the marriage and seeks recognition of those financial contributions.
Factors Courts Consider When Awarding Alimony
Spousal support is not automatic. Courts consider a number of factors when deciding whether support is appropriate and what amount and duration may be reasonable under the circumstances.
- Length of the marriage
- Age and health of each spouse
- Income, earning capacity, and financial resources
- Standard of living established during the marriage
- Contributions made by each spouse, including career or educational sacrifices
Our firm can help you gather documentation, understand what the court is likely to consider, and present a clear, well-supported position.
Tax Considerations for Spousal Support
The tax treatment of spousal support can depend on the terms of the order and when the divorce was finalized. Understanding these implications can be important during negotiation and settlement planning.
We help clients evaluate the real-world financial impact of support arrangements so they can make informed decisions.
Can Spousal Support Be Modified?
In some cases, spousal support may be modified if there is a material change in circumstances. This could involve changes in income, employment, health, or other factors that affect the ability to pay or the need for support.
Learn more about the modification process on our Family Law Modifications page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spousal Support
Is alimony guaranteed in a Virginia divorce?
No. Spousal support depends on the facts of the case and the statutory factors the court must consider.
How is spousal support determined?
Courts evaluate financial circumstances, the marriage history, and other factors. Documentation and a clear presentation of evidence can make a meaningful difference.
How long does spousal support last?
Duration depends on the type of support awarded and the circumstances of the marriage and divorce.
How does spousal support relate to property division?
These issues are separate but often evaluated together in divorce negotiations. Learn more on our Property Division page.
Get Guidance on Spousal Support and Alimony
A critical component of the exceptional service we provide is our initial consultation. In most cases, our first meeting is a two-hour consultation so we can truly understand your concerns and help you get started the right way.
Phone: (540) 310-4088
Email: [email protected]
Address: 307 Lafayette Blvd, Suite 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Related services: Divorce • Child Support • Property Division • Family Law Attorney