Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia
If you need to change the terms of your final divorce order in Falls Church, a divorce decree modification lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. Virginia law allows modifications to child support, custody, visitation, and spousal support under specific circumstances. Our firm has documented results in Falls Church courts. We provide 24/7 consultations to discuss your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Once a divorce decree is entered by the Falls Church Circuit Court, it becomes a final court order. However, life circumstances change, and the original terms may no longer be fair or workable. Virginia law provides a legal pathway to modify certain aspects of a divorce decree. A divorce decree modification lawyer in Falls Church can guide you through the process of petitioning the court for a change based on a material change in circumstances, as defined by statutes like Va. Code § 20-108 for child support and § 20-108.2 for custody.
Founded in 1997, our firm has the experience to handle these sensitive post-divorce matters. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep understanding of family law evolution.
Official Legal Resources
To understand the legal standards, refer to the Virginia Code § 20-108 (official Virginia General Assembly) governing child support modifications. For court procedures, visit the Virginia Courts website.
Process for Modifying a Divorce Order in Falls Church
Modifying a divorce order requires filing a formal petition with the Falls Church Circuit Court. The key is proving a “material change in circumstances” since the last order was entered. For child support, this often involves a significant change in either parent’s income. For custody or visitation, changes in the child’s needs, a parent’s relocation, or issues affecting the child’s welfare may justify modification.
- Consult with a divorce decree modification lawyer in Falls Church to evaluate if you have grounds for a change.
- Gather documentation (pay stubs, medical records, school reports) proving the material change.
- Your attorney files a Petition to Modify with the Falls Church Circuit Court clerk.
- The other party is served with the petition and has an opportunity to respond.
- The court may order mediation or schedule a hearing to decide the modification.
What Can Be Modified?
In Falls Church, you can petition to modify child support, custody, visitation, and spousal support (alimony) if you meet the legal standard for a material change in circumstances.
| Provision | Legal Standard for Modification | Governing Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Child Support | Material change in circumstances or 3 years since last order with a 25% difference. | Va. Code § 20-108 |
| Custody & Visitation | Material change affecting child’s best interests. | Va. Code § 20-108 |
| Spousal Support | Material change in circumstances, needs, or payor’s ability. | Va. Code § 20-109 |
| Property Division | Generally NOT modifiable after decree is final. | Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Modification Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine deep knowledge of Virginia family law with practical experience in Falls Church courtrooms. Mr. Sris’s unique background includes contributing to the amendment of Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), giving our firm insight into the legislative intent behind family laws. We focus on clear strategy and diligent preparation for modification hearings.
Case Results in Falls Church
Our firm has a record of advocating for clients in Falls Church. In one case, we successfully petitioned for a reduction in child support after a client experienced a significant involuntary decrease in income. In another, we helped a parent modify a custody schedule to accommodate a necessary job relocation, preserving a strong relationship with the child.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Falls Church Family Law Attorneys
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Falls Church. We are approximately 15 minutes from the Falls Church Circuit Court at 300 Park Avenue, accessible via Route 7 and I-66.
We are a trusted divorce decree modification lawyer near Falls Church and serve the Falls Church community.
Available 24/7 by phone. Meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Modifying a Divorce Decree in Falls Church
Can I modify my divorce decree in Virginia?
Yes, but only specific provisions. You can petition the court to modify child support, custody, visitation, or spousal support if you can prove a material change in circumstances since the last order. Property division is typically final.
How long does it take to modify a divorce order?
It depends on whether the modification is contested. An agreed-upon modification can take 2-3 months. If contested, the process can take 6-12 months for hearings, discovery, and a court decision in Falls Church Circuit Court.
What is considered a “material change” for child support?
A material change is a substantial change in circumstances. Common examples include a significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income, loss of employment, a change in the child’s healthcare needs, or the child reaching the age of majority.
Can I modify custody without going to court?
Yes, if both parents agree. You can create a written agreement outlining the new custody terms. However, to make it legally enforceable and modify the official court order, you must submit the agreement to a judge in Falls Church Circuit Court for approval.
How much does it cost to modify a divorce decree?
Costs vary. The court filing fee is approximately $86. Attorney fees depend on case complexity. An uncontested modification costs significantly less than a contested one requiring hearings and discovery.
Related Legal Services in Falls Church
If you are considering a modification, you may also need information on: Criminal Defense Lawyer in Falls Church, DUI Lawyer in Falls Church, or Divorce Lawyer in Fairfax County. For more family law resources, visit our Virginia Family Law Hub.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.