Spousal support in Virginia is often one of the most contentious issues in a divorce settlement or court dispute. Spousal support—also known as alimony or spousal maintenance—is a court order for periodic payments made from one spouse to the other. Typically, the higher-earning spouse makes payments to the lower-earning spouse or a dependant spouse.
Divorce is distressing, and the often adversarial issue of spousal support can make it more difficult. Call the Manassas spousal support lawyers at Collins Family Law for a consultation if you’re seeking support from your spouse or if you’re facing a spousal support order in your divorce. Our legal team can guide you through the divorce process so you understand your options while we protect your best interests.
Why Choose the Manassas Spousal Support Lawyers at Collins Family Law?
Experience matters when representing clients through a process with an outcome that affects the rest of their lives. The Manassas family law attorneys at Collins Family Law have many years of experience in Virginia divorce law, including spousal support orders. We bring the following to the table in a divorce case:
- Empathetic Manassas spousal support attorneys who are ready to hear the personal nuances of your case and take a tailored approach to develop the best strategy to obtain your goals
- Open and honest communication so you’re always prepared and informed through every stage of the process
- Well-grounded legal counsel to steer you through the high emotions accompanying divorce
- A resolution-based approach that always strives for the least contentious outcome but never compromises on our client’s best interest
Spousal support orders in Manassas are a serious aspect of divorce with long-term potential impacts. An experienced Virginia spousal support lawyer is the best ally through the divorce process.
When Do Courts Order Spousal Support in a Virginia Divorce?
Contrary to common assumptions, the courts do not automatically award spousal support in every Virginia divorce. Instead, the court considers the individual circumstances of a divorce case. Courts examine the following factors when deciding if a spousal support order is appropriate and the amount of the order:
- The total income and resources of each spouse after the distribution of their marital assets
- The duration of the marriage
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The non-monetary contributions of each spouse during the marriage
- Whether or not the spouses have an enforceable prenuptial or postnuptial agreement
When considering non-monetary contributions, courts review factors such as one spouse leaving the workforce to raise children and care for the home, one spouse’s earlier financial support of the other party while that party obtained an education, and whether or not one spouse suspended their career to support the other spouse’s career achievements.
Your spousal support attorney from Manassas can evaluate your unique circumstances and advise you on your options and what to expect if your case goes to court rather than reaching an out-of-court settlement.
Is Virginia Spousal Support Permanent?
The majority of spousal support settlements and court awards are temporary. In most cases, a spousal support order provides maintenance for one spouse for a limited period to allow them time to become self-sufficient. A court may award permanent spousal support after a marriage of long-duration or when one spouse has aged out of the workforce or has a significant disability.
Call the Manassas Spousal Support Lawyers in Manassas at Collins Family Law
It’s important to have an experienced Manassas spousal support lawyer who can guide you through all aspects of divorce, including spousal support orders. Call or contact Collins Family Law in Manassas to set up a confidential consultation.