Spousal Support Lawyers

When a marriage ends, both spouses feel the effects, but usually one spouse feels them more than the other. It’s common for one partner to earn much more than the other or hold the family assets. In many cases, one partner built their career while the other managed the household. In divorce, these financial gaps don’t disappear, so spousal support is aimed at addressing this imbalance. Both spouses deserve a fair chance to move forward financially after their marriage ends.

Whether you expect to receive support or believe you may be asked to pay it, understanding how Virginia law treats this issue matters before you enter negotiations or a courtroom.

Skilled Guidance for Your Spousal Support Case

At Mahoney Richmond Thurston, PLLC, we understand that spousal support decisions shape your financial future for years to come. Combined, our attorneys have decades of experience representing clients in every type of family law dispute throughout Virginia Beach, and spousal support is often at the center of the most contested cases.

We work closely with you, taking the time to learn the specifics of your marriage, finances, and goals so we can build the best strategy for your circumstances instead of trying to squeeze you into a generic template. Our founding attorneys have earned multiple honors, including Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, and the Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, the highest available for ethical and professional standards.

Who We Serve

Spousal support questions arise in many different circumstances, and no two situations look exactly alike. However, some basic themes have emerged over the years. We regularly serve:

• Spouses worried about supporting themselves after divorce. A physical or mental health condition has limited their ability to work or earn enough income, and they are concerned about how they will manage financially once the marriage ends.
• Spouses who put a career or education on hold during the marriage. They spent years raising children or managing the household and now need time, education, or training to rebuild their earning power after divorce.
• Spouses who cannot work because they care for a child with significant needs. As the primary caregiver for a child whose condition requires substantial care, their ability to hold a job or become financially independent is limited.
• Spouses who need financial help while the divorce is still pending. They have separated or filed for divorce, but the final financial issues are still unresolved. As a result, they worry about covering housing, utilities, insurance, and everyday expenses in the meantime.
• Spouses whose existing support arrangement no longer fits their circumstances. They already pay or receive support, but a change in employment, income, health, retirement, or another significant circumstance has left them wondering whether the arrangement can legally be modified or ended.

If your situation resembles any of these, you are far from alone, and there is a path forward.

Understanding Spousal Support in Virginia

When Courts Award Spousal Support

Virginia courts do not automatically award spousal support. Courts grant support only when they determine it is necessary, and that determination depends heavily on the details of each marriage. Courts are more likely to consider awarding support when:

• The couple was married for a long time.
• The two spouses have a large income gap.
• One spouse has a disability.
• One spouse is unemployed.

The circumstances leading to the divorce can also impact the outcome. For example, if the spouse seeking support committed adultery, the court may be more likely to deny the request.

Factors That Determine the Amount and Duration

Courts don’t follow any particular formula or fixed calculation in determining if a spouse should receive support or how much they should receive. Instead, judges weigh several factors specific to each marriage, including:

• The incomes of each partner.
• The financial needs of both parties.
• Each spouse’s age and mental and physical condition.
• The standard of living established during the marriage.
• The number of years the marriage lasted.
• The contribution of one partner to the education, training, or increased earning power of the other.
• Whether it was necessary for one spouse to stay home during the marriage due to the age or special needs of any children.
• The property interests of each spouse.

How Spousal Support Payments Work

Once a court orders spousal support, it can take different forms. Payments may come as one lump sum or as periodic payments made over time. The duration can also vary. Some arrangements last for a predetermined period, while others remain open-ended until the paying spouse dies or the receiving spouse remarries or cohabitates with a new partner. An experienced divorce lawyer can help you understand which structure is likely to apply to your case and how to prepare for it.

Why Choose Mahoney Richmond Thurston, PLLC?

Spousal support disputes carry high financial stakes and often elicit strong emotions on both sides. Here is what sets our firm apart when you need effective representation:

• Focused family law experience. Our attorneys have built their careers around family law, giving them a deep understanding of how Virginia courts approach spousal support decisions.
• A team-based strategy. We draw on the collective knowledge of our entire staff to build the strongest possible position for your case.
• Recognized legal skill. Our founding attorneys have earned honors such as Best Lawyers in America, Top Attorneys in Virginia by Richmond magazine, Top Attorneys in Hampton Roads by Coastal Virginia and CoVa Biz magazine, Super Lawyers, and Virginia Legal Elite.
• Clear, direct communication. We explain how the law applies to your situation in plain language so you understand your options at every stage.
• Attention to your full financial picture. We look closely at income, assets, health, and future earning potential to advocate for a fair outcome, whether you are seeking support or responding to a request for it.

Talk to a Divorce Attorney Today

Spousal support can be the difference between keeping your home, maintaining your standard of living, or rebuilding your finances after divorce. You deserve a clear answer about where you stand and an advocate who will fight for a fair result. Contact Mahoney Richmond Thurston, PLLC to schedule your divorce case review today.

Frequently Asked Questions