A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Virginia helps you adjust court orders for support, custody, or property division when circumstances change. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia. You can modify a divorce order under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Call (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
In Virginia, a divorce decree modification allows you to change child support, spousal support, custody, or property division terms when a material change in circumstances occurs.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Pay Child Support | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension possible | Wage garnishment, tax intercept |
| Failure to Pay Spousal Support | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Wage garnishment, property liens |
| Violation of Custody Order | Civil Contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Custody modification possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- File a motion to modify with the Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Serve the other party with the motion and supporting documents.
- Attend mediation if ordered by the court.
- Present evidence of material change in circumstances at hearing.
- Receive court order modifying the original decree.
- File the modified order with the court clerk.
Samantha Rae Powers — Of Counsel, Family Law
VA Bar 2023 | FL Bar 2005 | J.D./M.A. University of Florida 2005 | Ph.D. Communication UCSB 2017 | 18+ years experience. Samantha Powers leads our Virginia family law practice, handling divorce decree modifications across Fairfax, Richmond, and Northern Virginia.
Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. This achievement gives our firm unique insight into Virginia family law. Our team of Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Virginia attorneys has 120+ years of combined experience.
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented case results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our modify divorce order lawyer Virginia team handles modifications for child support, spousal support, custody, and property division.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our change divorce terms lawyer Virginia attorneys understand that life changes — job loss, relocation, health issues, or changes in children’s needs — may require adjusting your divorce decree. We guide you through the legal process to modify support, custody, or property terms.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Can I modify my divorce decree in Virginia?
Yes, you can modify a divorce decree in Virginia when a material change in circumstances occurs. File a motion with the circuit court that issued the original decree. You must show the change was not anticipated at the time of the original order.
How long does a divorce decree modification take in Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested modifications with agreement: 2-4 months. Contested modifications requiring hearing: 6-12 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary relief: typically set within 21-60 days of filing the motion.
What qualifies as a material change in circumstances for modification?
A material change includes job loss, significant income change, relocation, health issues, changes in children’s needs, remarriage, or cohabitation. The change must be substantial and not anticipated at the time of the original decree.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my divorce decree in Virginia?
Yes, hiring a Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer Virginia is strongly recommended. The modification process involves complex legal standards, evidence requirements, and court procedures. An attorney ensures your motion meets legal requirements and presents your case effectively.
Can I modify child support without going to court in Virginia?
No, child support modifications require court approval in Virginia. Even if both parents agree, you must file a consent order with the court. The court reviews the agreement to ensure it meets the child’s best interests and follows Virginia child support guidelines.
What is the cost to modify a divorce decree in Virginia?
It depends. Circuit Court filing fee for modification motion: approximately $86. Attorney fees vary based on complexity. Uncontested modifications cost less. Contested modifications with hearings, discovery, and experienced witnesses cost more. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
Can I modify spousal support after remarriage in Virginia?
Yes, spousal support terminates upon the recipient’s remarriage under Va. Code § 20-109. You must file a motion to terminate support. The court will enter an order ending support obligations effective the date of remarriage.
How do I modify a custody order in Virginia?
File a motion to modify custody with the circuit court. You must show a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests. The court considers factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Mediation is often required before a hearing.