Alimony Contempt Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Options for Unpaid Support?
If your former spouse has stopped paying court-ordered spousal support, an Alimony Contempt Lawyer Augusta County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, you may file a motion for contempt. Our firm has 13 documented case results in Augusta County.
Understanding Alimony Contempt Under Virginia Law
Alimony contempt occurs when a spouse willfully fails to pay spousal support as ordered by the Augusta County Circuit Court. Under Va. Code § 20-107.1, the court may hold a non-paying spouse in contempt, which can result in fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. The statute provides 13 factors the court considers when awarding or modifying spousal support. Mr. Sris, founder of the firm, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep familiarity with Virginia family law.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Augusta County Alimony Contempt
Insider Procedural Edge: How Augusta County Handles Alimony Contempt
Augusta County Circuit Court requires a separate motion for contempt to enforce spousal support. The court sets a show-cause hearing where the non-paying spouse must explain the non-payment.
In Augusta County, judges typically give one opportunity to cure before imposing sanctions. Document all missed payments and communication attempts before filing.
- Document the Violation: Gather bank statements, canceled checks, and any communication showing missed or partial payments.
- File a Motion for Contempt: Your attorney files a show-cause motion at the Augusta County Circuit Court, 6 East Johnson Street, Staunton, VA 24401.
- Serve the Non-Paying Spouse: The sheriff or a private process server delivers the motion. Expect costs of approximately $12 for sheriff service or $50-$100 for a private server.
- Attend the Show-Cause Hearing: The court sets a hearing typically within 21-60 days. Both parties present evidence regarding the non-payment.
- Court Determination: The judge decides whether the non-payment was willful. If so, the court may order payment plans, wage garnishment, or other enforcement measures.
- Enforcement Order: If the court finds contempt, it issues an enforcement order. Continued non-compliance can lead to additional sanctions.
Consequences of Alimony Contempt in Augusta County
In Augusta County, willful failure to pay spousal support can result in court-ordered enforcement actions including fines, wage garnishment, and potential incarceration.
| Violation | Classification | Potential Sanctions | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willful non-payment of spousal support | Civil contempt | Fines up to $250 per violation; wage garnishment up to 50% of disposable income | Court costs; attorney fees; potential jail time for continued non-compliance |
| Repeated non-payment after court order | Criminal contempt | Jail time up to 12 months; fines up to $2,500 | Loss of driver’s license; professional license suspension; credit damage |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Augusta County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Alimony Contempt Lawyer Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock Location serves clients at Augusta County courts (6 East Johnson Street). We are accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, Route 250, and Route 340. We serve the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Looking for an alimony contempt lawyer near Augusta County? Our team is ready to help with your spousal support violation case.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alimony Contempt in Augusta County
Can I go to jail for not paying alimony in Augusta County, Virginia?
Yes. Willful failure to pay court-ordered spousal support can result in criminal contempt charges, carrying up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 20-107.1.
How do I file a contempt motion for unpaid alimony in Augusta County?
Your attorney files a show-cause motion at the Augusta County Circuit Court, 6 East Johnson Street, Staunton, VA 24401. The court sets a hearing typically within 21-60 days of filing.
What evidence do I need for an alimony contempt case in Augusta County?
You need bank statements, canceled checks, payment records, and any communication showing missed or partial payments. Document all attempts to contact the non-paying spouse about the missed payments.
How long does an alimony contempt case take in Augusta County?
It depends. A show-cause hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of filing the motion. If the case is contested, it may take 3-6 months for a final resolution.
Can alimony be modified if I lose my job in Augusta County?
Yes. You can file a motion to modify spousal support under Va. Code § 20-107.1. The court considers 13 factors including your change in financial circumstances. Act quickly before arrears accumulate.
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt for unpaid alimony in Virginia?
Civil contempt is designed to compel compliance through fines or wage garnishment. Criminal contempt punishes willful disobedience and can result in jail time. The court decides which applies based on your conduct.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.