Spousal Support in Virginia
State-specific overview · Family Law
Virginia courts award spousal support based on need and ability to pay, with no specific formula or durational limits.
How Virginia treats Spousal Support
Virginia law does not establish a mathematical formula for calculating spousal support amounts. Courts consider factors including the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, age, health, and standard of living during marriage. Spousal support may be awarded during divorce proceedings (pendente lite) or as part of the final decree, and can be modified if circumstances change significantly. Virginia recognizes both temporary and permanent support, though permanent awards are less common in shorter marriages.
The general definition of Spousal Support
Court-ordered payments from one spouse to another, typically during or after divorce proceedings.
Spousal support, also called maintenance or alimony, is money one spouse pays to the other to help with living expenses during or after a divorce. It recognizes that one spouse may have sacrificed career opportunities during the marriage or may have lower earning potential. Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse's income and earning ability, and their age and health when determining if support is appropriate and how much to award. Spousal support can be temporary (lasting only during the divorce process) or permanent (continuing indefinitely or for a set period).
Read the full Spousal Support entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.