Can I modify alimony payments after retirement in Virginia?

Full question:

I have been paying alimony to my ex-wife in Virginia for over 20 years. I am retired and in ill health and would like to see if the alimony can be set aside. Can I do that in Florida or do I have to retain a lawyer in Virginia and go there to do it? The amount was lowered a little over 10 years ago but I still have to pay her $6,000 a year plus a portion of my Navy retirement which adds another $2,400 a year.

  • Category: Divorce
  • Subcategory: Spousal Support
  • Date:
  • State: Florida

Answer:

Venue refers to the specific location where a court with jurisdiction can hear a case. Jurisdiction is the authority of a court to operate in a particular area. While a court may have broad jurisdiction, the venue is often determined for the convenience of the parties involved. When a divorce decree is issued, the court retains the authority to modify its orders. Generally, the venue for modifying alimony can only be changed by mutual agreement of both parties or if it can be shown that a fair trial cannot be conducted in the current court.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

After 20 years of marriage, a spouse may be entitled to a significant portion of marital assets and possibly long-term alimony, depending on various factors such as the length of the marriage, income disparity, and contributions to the household. In Virginia, courts consider the financial needs of the receiving spouse and the paying spouse’s ability to pay when determining alimony. It's important to consult a legal professional for specific entitlements.