In Chesapeake, indefinite alimony (permanent spousal support) is governed by Va. Code § 20-107.1, which considers 13 factors for long-term support awards. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake. An Indefinite Alimony Lawyer Chesapeake can help you understand your rights under Virginia law.
What Is Indefinite Alimony Under Virginia Law?
Indefinite alimony, also known as permanent spousal support, is a court-ordered payment from one spouse to another that continues indefinitely. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, Virginia courts consider 13 factors when determining whether to award indefinite alimony, including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Unlike rehabilitative alimony, which has a fixed end date, indefinite alimony continues until the recipient remarries, either party dies, or a court modifies the order. A permanent spousal support lawyer Chesapeake can evaluate your specific circumstances under these statutory guidelines.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia’s spousal support statute, visit the Virginia General Assembly website for Va. Code § 20-107.1. For court procedures and local rules, refer to the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: How Chesapeake Courts Handle Indefinite Alimony
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all spousal support matters. The court applies the 13-factor test under Va. Code § 20-107.1 strictly.
In Chesapeake, long marriages (15+ years) often result in indefinite alimony awards when one spouse has significantly lower earning capacity.
- File a Complaint: File for divorce or spousal support at Chesapeake Circuit Court, 307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322.
- Serve Your Spouse: Properly serve the complaint and request for spousal support on your spouse.
- Financial Disclosure: Both parties must complete and exchange detailed financial statements (VS-16 forms).
- Attend Pendente Lite Hearing: Request temporary support while the case is pending. Hearings are typically set within 21-60 days.
- Mediation or Trial: The court may order mediation. If no agreement is reached, a trial determines the support award.
In Chesapeake, indefinite alimony under Va. Code § 20-107.1 is determined by 13 statutory factors, not a fixed penalty schedule.
| Factor | Description | Impact on Alimony |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of Marriage | Length of the marriage | Longer marriages favor indefinite alimony |
| Earning Capacity | Each spouse’s ability to earn income | Significant disparity favors support |
| Standard of Living | Established during marriage | Court aims to maintain this standard |
| Age and Health | Physical and mental condition | Poor health may support indefinite award |
| Contributions | Non-monetary contributions to marriage | Homemaker contributions are considered |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Indefinite Alimony Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law. The firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Case Results in Chesapeake
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Chesapeake, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has achieved 4,739+ 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 Chesapeake Location
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve the neighborhoods of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Looking for a long-term alimony lawyer Chesapeake? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
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Frequently Asked Questions About Indefinite Alimony in Chesapeake
How long does indefinite alimony last in Chesapeake, Virginia?
It depends. Indefinite alimony continues until the recipient remarries, either party dies, or a court modifies the order. Unlike rehabilitative alimony, it has no fixed end date. A permanent spousal support lawyer Chesapeake can explain the specific terms of your case.
Can indefinite alimony be modified in Chesapeake?
Yes. Either party can request modification if there is a material change in circumstances, such as job loss, disability, or a significant change in income. The court reviews the 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1 to determine if modification is appropriate.
What factors does a Chesapeake court consider for indefinite alimony?
The court considers 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, the standard of living during marriage, age and health of both parties, and each spouse’s contributions to the marriage.
Is indefinite alimony taxable in Virginia?
No. For divorce agreements executed after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are not tax-deductible for the payer and not taxable income for the recipient under federal tax law. This change was part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
How is indefinite alimony enforced in Chesapeake?
If a spouse fails to pay court-ordered alimony, the recipient can file a motion for contempt in Chesapeake Circuit Court. The court may impose wage garnishment, property liens, or even jail time for willful non-payment.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.