Augusta County Alimony Contempt Lawyer — Enforce Your Spousal Support Order
If your former spouse has stopped paying court-ordered spousal support, you need an experienced alimony contempt lawyer Augusta County. A contempt action under Va. Code § 20-112 is the legal tool to enforce your support order. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in Augusta County family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Alimony Contempt in Virginia?
Contempt of court for unpaid alimony, or spousal support, occurs when an individual willfully disobeys a valid court order to make support payments. In Virginia, this is governed by Va. Code § 20-112, which empowers the court to enforce its orders. A contempt for unpaid alimony lawyer Augusta County can help you file a “Rule to Show Cause” petition, asking the court to require the non-paying party to explain why they should not be held in contempt. The court can then impose sanctions, including wage garnishment, seizure of assets, fines, or even jail time to compel compliance.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 20-112 (official Virginia General Assembly). All contempt hearings for Augusta County family law matters are held at the Augusta County Circuit Court.
- Gather all evidence of missed alimony payments, including bank statements and the original court order.
- Your attorney will draft and file a Rule to Show Cause petition with the Augusta County Circuit Court clerk.
- The court will schedule a hearing and serve the petition on the non-paying spouse.
- At the hearing, your attorney will present evidence of the violation and the other party’s ability to pay.
- The judge will rule on contempt and order specific remedies like wage garnishment or a purge payment.
Potential Outcomes in a Contempt Proceeding
In Augusta County, a finding of contempt for unpaid alimony can result in court-ordered wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds or assets, fines, or incarceration until the payor complies with the order.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Augusta County Contempt Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex family law enforcement. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep involvement in shaping the laws we use to advocate for clients today. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Case Results in Augusta County
Our attorneys have secured favorable outcomes for clients in Augusta County courts. For example, we have successfully argued for reductions in serious traffic charges, demonstrating our ability to handle local court procedures effectively.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We represent individuals in Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. As an experienced spousal support violation lawyer Augusta County, we provide accessible legal support for enforcement issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a contempt hearing for unpaid alimony?
The payee must prove the payor willfully violated a clear court order. The judge may order immediate payment, wage garnishment, or jail time if contempt is found.
Can I get my ex-spouse’s wages garnished for unpaid alimony?
Yes. A contempt for unpaid alimony lawyer Augusta County can petition the court for an income deduction order, requiring the payor’s employer to withhold support directly from their wages.
How long does a contempt case take in Augusta County?
It depends on the court’s docket. After filing a Rule to Show Cause, a hearing is typically scheduled within a few weeks to a few months at Augusta County Circuit Court.
What if my ex-spouse claims they can’t afford to pay alimony?
The court will examine their financial records. If a legitimate change in circumstances exists, they must file a petition to modify support, not simply stop paying. Willful non-payment can still lead to contempt.
Do I need a lawyer to file for contempt?
While not legally required, the procedural rules are strict. An alimony contempt lawyer Augusta County ensures proper filing, evidence presentation, and argument to maximize your chance of enforcement.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law overview. We also assist with related matters like criminal defense in Augusta County and DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.