Whether spousal support should be awarded depends on the need of the party asking for support and the ability of the other party to pay. Unlike child support, Virginia law does not provide a specific formula to calculate (1) the amount or (2) the length of such an award.
In Virginia, the courts consider a number of factors in determining spousal support, including:
- Financial needs and resources of each spouse
- Age and health of each spouse
- Duration of the marriage
- Standard of living during the marriage
There is no requirement that retroactive spousal support be awarded. And to further complicate matters, some courts have limited days upon which spousal support motions will be heard, potentially extending the time upon which the spouse with need will receive any form of spousal support.
For spouses who depend heavily on other party’s income, not receiving any support can be extremely stressful. The stress can be minimized, however, with careful planning.
At Meyer & Bowden, our Fairfax County attorneys are familiar with the complex issues involving Virginia spousal support and maintenance laws. The lawyers of our firm will strive to obtain a fair agreement whenever possible. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we will vigorously defend and protect our client’s rights in court
Contact us today to get the best results under the law!
Fairfax County, VA Resources
Fairfax County is a suburban county in the Commonwealth of Virginia. With a population of approximately 1.1 million, it is the most populous jurisdictions in VA along with having the second-highest median household income in the US. Fairfax is home to numerous intelligence agencies and Fortune 500 companies. The county seat is the City of Fairfax, although the city is not part of the county.
Fairfax County Website
Fairfax County Police Department
Fairfax County District Courts

Leesburg | Fredericksburg | Fairfax
With over 40-years of combined experience, issues that are new to you are not new to us. We will fight to help you get the best result under the law.
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