Modification of Child Support, Custody and Alimony

Norfolk VA Support Modification Lawyers – Family Law Attorneys

Going through divorce proceedings in the state Virginia can be a rather long and stressful process in some cases, and the day when the divorce becomes final can bring a lot of relief along with it. Many people think that the matter is closed at that point, but this is often times not the case. People who are divorced have the right to seek modifications of the original terms of the divorce pursuant to matters such as child custody, child support, and alimony, which in Virginia is referred to as spousal maintenance.

Modifications to the original terms of the divorce are going to be sought based on changing circumstances. When it comes to child custody, there may come a point in time when the non-custodial parent feels as though the child’s best interests are no longer being served by the custodial parent. This parent may seek a modification that changes the custodianship.

In cases of child support, the commonwealth of Virginia provides the court with specific guidelines that spell out exactly how much shall be paid by the non-custodial parent. As we all know, people tend to earn more money as their careers advance over the years, and the financial needs of children generally grow along with the child. Virginia law stipulates that a child support modification is in order when the application of the guidelines to the current financial conditions surrounding the situation would result in change in the required payments of at least 10%.

Possible modification of spousal support is also based on changing circumstances, and it can swing both ways. If the individual receiving the support was to inherit a large sum of money, or land a job that significantly changed his or her financial situation, required spousal maintenance payments may be reduced or eliminated altogether. If the party making the payments was to make considerably less money at some point, this too could be cause for modification. Conversely, if the party making the payments was to improve his or her financial standing, the former partner receiving spousal maintenance may have grounds for a modification request under some circumstances.

To find out more about modification of child support, custody and alimony, contact a Norfolk Virgina family lawyer and arrange for a free consultation.