Spousal support, sometimes called alimony or maintenance, in Virginia, is determined by a complex process considering numerous factors. These include each spouse’s earning capacity, financial resources, contributions to the marriage, duration of the marriage, and the circumstances that led to the separation. For example, a longer marriage where one spouse primarily cared for the home and children might result in a different support award than a shorter marriage with two dual-income earners.
A fair and appropriate support determination safeguards the financial well-being of both parties after divorce, promoting self-sufficiency and easing the transition to independent living. Historically, alimony reflected societal expectations of long-term marriages and traditional gender roles. Modern Virginia law acknowledges evolving societal norms and focuses on equitable financial outcomes for both spouses. The process aims to balance the needs of the recipient spouse with the paying spouse’s ability to pay.