Westmoreland County, Virginia
Spousal Support Lawyer Westmoreland County VA
Spousal support in Westmoreland County is governed by Va. Code § 20-107.1. Shawna L. Stevens PLLC advises clients on support awards, pendente lite motions, and modifications in the Westmoreland County Circuit Court.
Shawna L. Stevens
Family Law Attorney • Westmoreland County, VA
Westmoreland County Circuit Court
Family law matters in Westmoreland County are handled by the Westmoreland County Circuit Court, located at 175 Polk Street, Montross, VA 22520. The court is part of the 15th Judicial Circuit of Virginia. Hon. Victoria A. B. Willis, Chief Judge presides over civil and family law proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Westmoreland County Circuit Court decide whether to award spousal support?
The court applies the nine-factor analysis in Va. Code § 20-107.1. Key factors include the parties' incomes and earning capacities, the standard of living established during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, each spouse's financial needs, and — significantly — the circumstances leading to the divorce. Fault can affect the amount and duration of support.
Does adultery affect spousal support in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, a spouse who commits adultery is permanently barred from receiving spousal support, unless the court finds that a denial would constitute a manifest injustice. For the payor, proving the recipient's adultery is one of the strongest defenses to a support claim. We evaluate whether fault grounds apply and whether pursuing them serves your goals.
How long does spousal support last in Westmoreland County?
Virginia courts have broad discretion over the duration of spousal support. For shorter marriages, support is often time-limited. For long marriages where one spouse left the workforce, permanent or long-term support is more common. The Westmoreland County Circuit Court sets the duration based on the specific circumstances of the marriage and the time needed for the recipient to achieve financial independence.
Can a spousal support order be changed after it is entered?
Yes, under Va. Code § 20-109, either party can petition the Westmoreland County Circuit Court to modify support when there has been a material change in circumstances. The change must be significant and not reasonably anticipated at the time of the original order. Common grounds include job loss, retirement, or a substantial income change.
Also Serving These Counties
Stafford County • Spotsylvania County • King George County • Caroline County • Orange County.
Talk to a Spousal Support Lawyer in Westmoreland County
Shawna L. Stevens PLLC serves clients throughout Westmoreland County and the Northern Neck region. Call (540) 310-4088 or use the contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.