Enforcing Separation Agreement Early

Summary

In Virginia, a separation agreement isnt enforceable by the court until the judge signs off on the divorce. If a spouse violates the terms of the agreement, such as not paying the agreed amount for child and alimony support, one can consult with a lawyer about possibly amending the separation agreement or seeking a temporary order for support. The local court for such matters is the Fairfax County Circuit Court.

Full Conversation

my divorce isn't finalized yet and I need to know what I can do to enforce the separation agreement for child and alimony support
Has your spouse violated the terms of the separation agreement?
yes
What specific terms of the separation agreement has your spouse violated?
the amount of child and alimony support he agreed to pay
What is the exact amount your spouse agreed to pay in the separation agreement for child and alimony support?

In Virginia:
- Violation of a separation agreement can be enforced in court.
- The court in your area is Fairfax County Circuit Court, * Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA *, (*) *-*.
* a week for child a * a week for alimony
What actions have you taken so far to enforce the separation agreement?

In Virginia:
- You can file a motion for contempt in court for violation of the agreement.
- Fairfax County Circuit Court: * Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA *, (*) *-*.
nothing yet
What is the reason for your inaction? It's important to act promptly in these situations. In Virginia, you can file a motion for contempt in court for violation of the agreement.
i was told i couldn't so anything until the judge signs off on the divorce because then the separation agreement now becomes a court order.
Who told you that you couldn't do anything until the judge signs off on the divorce?
a lawyer
In Virginia, a lawyer is correct. Until the judge signs off on the divorce, the separation agreement isn't enforceable by the court.
so theres nothing i can do
You can consult with your lawyer about possibly amending the separation agreement or seeking a temporary order for support.
ok thank you
You're welcome, Crystal. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask.