Alimony Contempt Lawyer Henrico County — Defending Against Unpaid Alimony Claims

If you are facing a contempt hearing for unpaid alimony in Henrico County, you need an experienced alimony contempt lawyer. A spousal support violation can lead to wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension, and even jail time under Virginia law. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly

What Is Alimony Contempt in Virginia?

In Virginia, a court order for spousal support is legally binding. Failure to pay as ordered is a violation that can lead to a “Rule to Show Cause” hearing for contempt. The petitioner (the receiving spouse) must file a motion with the court that issued the original support order, alleging you have willfully failed to pay. At the hearing, the judge will determine if the non-payment was intentional and without justification. A finding of contempt is not a new criminal charge, but it is a serious civil enforcement tool with punitive consequences. The primary statute governing spousal support, including enforcement, is Va. Code § 20-107.1, which outlines the factors for awarding support and the court’s authority to enforce its orders.

Consequences of an Alimony Contempt Finding

If the court finds you in contempt for unpaid alimony, the judge has broad discretion to impose remedies to compel payment and punish the violation. Potential consequences include:

• Wage Garnishment: The court can order your employer to withhold support payments directly from your paycheck.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Under Va. Code § 20-79.3, the court can suspend your Virginia driver’s license for non-payment.
• Professional License Suspension: Licenses for professions like law, medicine, or real estate can also be suspended.
• Liens on Property: The court can place a lien on real estate or personal property.
• Incarceration: The judge can impose a jail sentence for civil contempt, which is typically purged by paying the arrears. There is no set maximum limit for this confinement.
• Attorney’s Fees and Costs: You may be ordered to pay the other party’s legal fees for bringing the contempt action.

In Henrico County, a contempt finding for unpaid alimony can result in wage garnishment, license suspension, or jail time until the arrears are paid.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

1. Receive the Rule to Show Cause: You will be served with a court order requiring you to appear and explain why you should not be held in contempt.
2. Consult an Attorney Immediately: Contact an alimony contempt lawyer to review the motion, your payment history, and your financial situation.
3. Gather Financial Documentation: Collect proof of income, bank statements, job termination notices, or medical records that explain your non-payment.
4. File a Response: Your attorney will file a formal written response to the motion, presenting your defense and any request for a modification of support.
5. Attend the Hearing: Present your case before the Henrico County Circuit Court judge. Your lawyer will argue why your actions did not constitute willful contempt.
6. Address the Outcome: If arrears are owed, work with your attorney to propose a realistic payment plan to the court to avoid or end punitive measures.

Defending Against a Contempt Allegation in Henrico County

A successful defense against a spousal support violation requires proving that your failure to pay was not “willful.” Our attorneys at the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., led by Samantha Powers in Virginia, build defenses on several grounds. We may demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances, such as involuntary unemployment or a medical emergency, that made compliance impossible. We also scrutinize the accuracy of the claimed arrears and whether proper credit was given for any direct payments made. In some cases, the best defense is to simultaneously file a motion to modify the underlying support order based on a material change in financial situation, arguing that the original order is no longer fair or appropriate.

Case Results and Firm Authority

Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Henrico County, we have a track record of resolving family law matters effectively. Mr. Sris personally played a key role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep, practical understanding of Virginia family law at the highest level.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Alimony Contempt in Henrico County: Frequently Asked Questions

Related Legal Services in Henrico County

If you are dealing with alimony issues, you may also need assistance with: Henrico County Divorce Lawyer, Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer, or Henrico County DUI Lawyer. For all Virginia family law matters, visit our Virginia Family Law hub page.