Spousal Support and Alimony Lawyers in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Alimony (also called “spousal support” or “maintenance payments”) is a payment made by one party to the other after divorce. Alimony is determined either by court order or by the parties’ agreement, and it is generally based on the needs and resources of the parties. Spousal support may be temporary, or “rehabilitative;” or, in certain circumstances, a court may order long term or indefinite alimony.

The courts in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia have different criteria they must consider when determining whether to grant a request for spousal support. Importantly, if a party waives his/her right to alimony at divorce, he/she cannot ask for it at a later time. Further, the amount of spousal support may be modified by court order upon a showing of a change in circumstances.

If you are considering divorce in Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. and alimony may be an issue, contact the attorneys at Patel & Williams for a consultation.