Is alimony awarded based on the length of the marriage?

Yes, alimony is typically awarded in Virginia based on the length of the marriage. Virginia state law considers the length of the marriage when determining alimony and other financial support for the spouse who has limited income. Alimony is intended to provide ongoing financial support to a lower-earning spouse who has dependents. Virginia courts look at factors such as the length of the marriage, the income gap between the spouses, and the age, health, and financial resources of the spouse seeking alimony. In Virginia, the longer the marriage, the more a court will consider the length of the marriage when awarding alimony. Generally, marriages of fewer than five years are considered short-term marriages, while marriages of five years or longer are considered long-term marriages. For short-term marriages, courts usually award alimony for a period of time that equals half the length of the marriage. For long-term marriages, alimony may be permanent. Virginia courts also consider the amount of time it will take the dependent spouse to become self-supporting. The amount and duration of the alimony may be modified based on a change in circumstances of either spouse. The paying spouse may also request a modification if he/she experiences a significant change in financial circumstances.

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Is alimony awarded based on the length of the marriage?

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