In Virginia Beach, enforcing an alimony order requires a motion for contempt under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. An Alimony Enforcement Lawyer Virginia Beach can help you collect unpaid spousal support.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines alimony (spousal support) as court-ordered payments from one spouse to another after separation or divorce. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3, the court considers 13 factors to determine support amounts. When a paying spouse fails to comply, you need an Alimony Enforcement Lawyer Virginia Beach to file a show cause motion. The court can hold the non-paying party in contempt, which may result in jail time, wage garnishment, or seizure of assets. Mr. Sris personally amended this statute, giving the firm unique insight into its enforcement mechanisms.
For the official statute governing spousal support enforcement, see Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Circuit Court requires a corroborating witness for uncontested hearings. Prosecutors routinely seek wage garnishment first before contempt. The court calendar runs 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM weekdays.
- Gather all payment records and the original support order.
- File a motion for show cause at Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Serve the non-paying spouse with the motion and summons.
- Attend the hearing to present evidence of non-payment.
- Request remedies: wage garnishment, contempt, or payment plan.
- Obtain a court order for enforcement or modification.
In Virginia Beach, failure to pay alimony can result in contempt of court, carrying potential jail time and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Pay Alimony (Contempt) | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months (if criminal contempt) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Wage garnishment, bank levy, property lien |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs spousal support in Virginia. This amendment gives the firm direct knowledge of how Virginia Beach courts interpret alimony enforcement. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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 experience. Ms. Powers handles family law matters including alimony enforcement in Virginia Beach.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, also oversees family law cases. He brings former prosecutor experience and a background in accounting and information systems to complex financial cases. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Alimony enforcement lawyer near Virginia Beach — we are here to help.
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Q: Can I enforce an alimony order without a lawyer in Virginia Beach?
Yes, you can file a pro se motion for show cause at Virginia Beach Circuit Court. However, the process involves strict procedural rules and evidentiary requirements. An Alimony Enforcement Lawyer Virginia Beach can help you handle the process effectively.
Q: How long does alimony enforcement take in Virginia Beach?
It depends. A show cause hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of filing the motion. Contested hearings with multiple witnesses may take 3-6 months. The court can issue temporary orders for wage garnishment during the process.
Q: What happens if my ex-spouse refuses to pay alimony in Virginia Beach?
The court can hold them in civil contempt, which may result in jail time until they pay. Other remedies include wage garnishment, bank account levy, property liens, and interception of tax refunds. The court can also order a payment plan.
Q: Can alimony be modified in Virginia Beach?
Yes, if there is a material change in circumstances such as job loss, disability, or remarriage. You must file a motion to modify with Virginia Beach Circuit Court. The court will review the 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 to determine if modification is appropriate.
Q: Is alimony enforcement different for military spouses in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Military alimony enforcement involves the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA). Virginia Beach has a large military population due to Naval Air Station Oceana. The court can garnish military retirement pay directly.