Spousal Support Roanoke VA: A Comprehensive Virginia Alimony Guide

As a senior attorney with over two decades of hands-on experience in family law across Virginia, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that issues of financial stability and spousal support can have on individuals navigating the complexities of divorce. In Roanoke, Virginia, understanding your rights and obligations regarding spousal support—often referred to as alimony—is not merely a legal formality; it is a critical step towards securing your financial future and achieving peace of mind during one of life’s most challenging transitions.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we recognize that spousal support cases are deeply personal and often fraught with emotional and financial uncertainty. Our approach is rooted in providing clear, authoritative guidance, helping you understand the nuances of Virginia law, and formulating a robust strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Whether you are seeking financial assistance to maintain a semblance of your marital standard of living or defending against an unreasonable request, the decisions made now will resonate for years to come. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the path forward, offering the wisdom gained from countless cases in Roanoke and across the Commonwealth.

Understanding Spousal Support in Virginia: The Fundamentals

Spousal support, or alimony, in Virginia is a payment from one spouse to another after separation or divorce, intended to provide financial assistance and help the recipient maintain a reasonable standard of living. It is not an automatic entitlement but rather a determination made by the court based on a comprehensive review of numerous statutory factors.

The foundation of spousal support in the Commonwealth of Virginia lies primarily in Virginia Code § 20-107.1. This critical statute outlines a detailed list of factors that a court must consider when deciding whether to award support, the amount, and its duration. These factors are designed to ensure a fair and equitable outcome, reflecting the unique circumstances of each marriage.

The 13 statutory factors include, but are not limited to:

• The obligations, needs, and financial resources of the parties, including income from all sources.
• The standard of living established during the marriage.
• The duration of the marriage.
• The age and physical and mental condition of each party.
• The monetary and nonmonetary contributions of each party to the well-being of the family.
• The property interests of the parties, both real and personal, tangible and intangible.
• The provisions made with regard to the marital property under Virginia Code § 20-107.3.
• The earning capacity of each party, including the skills, education, and training of the parties and the opportunities for securing such education, training, and employment.
• The decisions made by the parties during the marriage regarding employment, career, parenting, and education.
• Such other factors, including the tax consequences to each party, as are necessary to do equity between the parties.

It is vital to understand that no single factor is determinative; instead, the court weighs all of them collectively to arrive at a just decision. This intricate process underscores why a knowledgeable spousal support lawyer in Roanoke VA is indispensable. They can help present your financial narrative compellingly, ensuring the court fully grasps your needs or your ability to contribute.

The Stakes: Why Spousal Support Matters in Roanoke Divorces

The outcome of a spousal support determination can profoundly affect your financial stability and quality of life post-divorce, making it one of the most significant issues in Virginia dissolution proceedings. A misstep or lack of seasoned legal representation can lead to long-term financial hardship or an unfair burden.

For the spouse seeking support, alimony can be the bridge to financial independence, allowing time to acquire new skills, pursue education, or re-enter the workforce after years away. Without it, the transition can be abrupt and devastating, potentially forcing a significant decline in the standard of living they enjoyed during the marriage. For the paying spouse, an unreasonable support order can strain their finances, impacting their ability to save, invest, or simply maintain their own household comfortably. The stakes are undeniably high for both parties involved in a divorce financial support Roanoke case.

Consider a situation where one spouse has been the primary caregiver and homemaker for decades, sacrificing career advancement for the family. Without spousal support, their ability to become self-supporting at an equivalent level to their former spouse could be severely hampered. Conversely, a paying spouse might face a demand for support that overlooks their own significant financial obligations or a sudden change in their income, necessitating a robust defense.

Moreover, spousal support orders are not always static. Under Virginia Code § 20-108.1, a court retains the power to modify or terminate spousal support upon a showing of a material change in circumstances, unless the support was agreed upon by the parties and specifically designated as non-modifiable. This adds another layer of complexity, as what seems fair today might not be sustainable tomorrow. This potential for modification means that initial orders need to be meticulously crafted, and changes in circumstances carefully presented. An alimony attorney Virginia can help predict potential future scenarios and build protections into your initial agreement or court order.

The financial consequences extend beyond immediate payments. Spousal support can have significant tax implications, which must be considered during negotiations or litigation. While the federal tax deductibility of alimony changed with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Virginia law still allows for state tax implications that must be navigated. Overlooking these details can lead to unexpected financial burdens down the line, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to divorce financial support in Roanoke.

Navigating the Legal Process: Roanoke’s Courts and Agencies

The legal process for establishing or modifying spousal support in Roanoke, VA, primarily takes place within the Circuit Court system, whether in Roanoke City or Roanoke County, requiring adherence to specific procedural rules and presentation of detailed financial evidence. Effective navigation demands a thorough understanding of these courts’ operations and legal requirements.

When a divorce is filed in Roanoke, spousal support is typically one of the issues addressed by the Circuit Court. Depending on where the parties reside or where the divorce action is initiated, the case will be heard in either the Roanoke City Circuit Court or the Roanoke County Circuit Court. These are the primary judicial bodies that preside over divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters in the Roanoke area.

The process generally unfolds as follows:

1. Filing the Complaint: One spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate Circuit Court. This complaint will include prayers for relief, which may encompass spousal support.
2. Service of Process: The other spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers.
3. Responsive Pleadings: The served spouse files an Answer, which may include counter-claims for spousal support or defenses against a request for support.
4. Financial Discovery: Both parties engage in a process of exchanging extensive financial documents, including income statements, tax returns, bank records, investment statements, and debt obligations. This is a critical phase, as the court relies heavily on accurate and complete financial disclosures to make informed decisions regarding support.
5. Negotiation and Mediation: Before a trial, parties often attempt to resolve spousal support and other issues through negotiation or mediation. Many cases settle without the need for a contested court hearing.
6. Temporary Orders (Pendente Lite): If financial needs are immediate, either party can ask the court for a temporary spousal support order (known as pendente lite support) to be in effect while the divorce case is pending.
7. Evidentiary Hearings or Trial: If an agreement cannot be reached, the matter proceeds to an evidentiary hearing or trial. Here, both parties present evidence and arguments regarding the statutory factors under Virginia Code § 20-107.1. Expert witnesses, such as forensic accountants or vocational evaluators, may be called to provide testimony on earning capacity or asset valuation.
8. Final Order: The Circuit Court issues a final order determining whether spousal support is awarded, the amount, its duration (which can be for a defined period or indefinite), and the method of payment.

Should either party be dissatisfied with the Circuit Court’s final decision, there is the possibility of appealing the ruling to the Virginia Court of Appeals. Further appeals, though rare and challenging, can be made to the Virginia Supreme Court. While the Virginia Department of Social Services can be involved in the enforcement of child support, their role in initial spousal support orders is generally limited unless the support is paid through their system for enforcement purposes. Having a family court lawyer Roanoke who is intimately familiar with these judicial processes and the specific expectations of judges in Roanoke is invaluable.

The SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist Tool

To help you prepare for discussions about spousal support and organize the complex financial and personal information required, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist. This practical tool guides you through the critical elements the court considers.

Preparing for a spousal support case can feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of information needed. Our checklist distills the core factors from Virginia Code § 20-107.1 into an actionable format, ensuring you don’t overlook crucial details. This tool is not a substitute for legal advice but a preparatory resource to empower you during your initial case assessment.

The SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist

Use this checklist to gather information pertinent to your spousal support case:

1. Financial Resources & Needs:
   • Current Gross Monthly Income (You & Spouse)
   • Current Monthly Expenses (You & Spouse – itemized)
   • List of Assets (Bank accounts, investments, real estate, retirement, etc. – You & Spouse)
   • List of Debts (Mortgages, credit cards, loans, etc. – You & Spouse)
   • Sources of Other Income (e.g., benefits, trusts)
2. Standard of Living During Marriage:
   • Describe average monthly household spending.
   • List significant marital expenses (vacations, luxury items, private schools, etc.).
   • Provide examples of the lifestyle enjoyed (housing, vehicles, discretionary spending).
3. Duration of Marriage:
   • Date of Marriage:
   • Date of Separation:
   • Total Years of Marriage:
4. Age & Health of Parties:
   • Your Age & General Health Condition:
   • Spouse’s Age & General Health Condition:
   • Any significant health issues or special needs?
5. Contributions to Family Well-being:
   • Your monetary contributions (income, investments).
   • Your nonmonetary contributions (childcare, homemaking, support for spouse’s career).
   • Spouse’s monetary contributions.
   • Spouse’s nonmonetary contributions.
6. Earning Capacity & Employability:
   • Your education, skills, work history.
   • Any limitations on your ability to work?
   • Spouse’s education, skills, work history.
   • Any limitations on spouse’s ability to work?
   • Opportunities for vocational training or education for either party?
7. Marital Decisions Affecting Careers:
   • Were career decisions made that disadvantaged one spouse financially (e.g., one spouse stayed home to raise children, moved for the other’s job)?
   • Documentation of career sacrifices.
8. Tax Consequences:
   • Discuss potential tax implications of spousal support with your attorney.

By organizing this information in advance, you empower your legal team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to present a clear, comprehensive case to the court, or to negotiate effectively on your behalf for fair divorce financial support in Roanoke.

Crafting Your Case: Legal Strategies and Defenses for Spousal Support

A successful spousal support outcome in Virginia hinges on a meticulously crafted legal strategy, whether you are the party seeking support or defending against it. This involves understanding the legal landscape, presenting compelling evidence, and employing negotiation or litigation tactics tailored to your specific goals.

As an experienced alimony attorney Virginia, I approach each spousal support case with a dual perspective: identifying the strongest arguments for our client while anticipating potential counter-arguments. Here are some key strategies and defenses:

Strategies for Seeking Spousal Support:

1. Demonstrate Need and Entitlement:
   • Detailed Financial Disclosure: Provide exhaustive documentation of your current expenses and income, highlighting any shortfall that spousal support would address. Use the SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist to ensure completeness.
   • Marital Standard of Living: Present evidence (bank statements, travel records, household budgets) of the lifestyle established during the marriage to justify the requested amount.
   • Reduced Earning Capacity: If your career was curtailed due to marital decisions (e.g., childcare), demonstrate how this impacted your current earning potential compared to your spouse’s. Vocational assessments can be powerful here.
   • Health Issues: Document any health conditions that impair your ability to work or increase your medical expenses.
   • Contributions to Marriage: Highlight both monetary and non-monetary contributions (e.g., managing the household, supporting your spouse’s education/career) that facilitated the other spouse’s success.
2. Focus on Statutory Factors: Frame your entire argument around the 13 factors outlined in Virginia Code § 20-107.1, showing how each supports your claim for support.
3. Negotiation Leverage: Be prepared to negotiate, potentially offering concessions on other issues (like property division) in exchange for favorable spousal support terms.

Defenses Against Spousal Support Claims:

1. Challenge Need or Ability to Pay:
   • Recipient’s Earning Capacity: Argue that the requesting spouse has a greater earning capacity than claimed or is voluntarily underemployed. Seek vocational assessments to prove potential income.
   • Recipient’s Self-Sufficiency: Demonstrate that the requesting spouse has sufficient assets or income to meet their own needs without support, or can reasonably become self-sufficient within a defined period.
   • Your Financial Constraints: Provide detailed documentation of your own expenses, debts, and decreased income to show that you cannot afford the requested amount without undue hardship.
2. Adultery/Marital Fault:
   • Under Virginia law, if a court finds that the spouse seeking support committed adultery, no spousal support shall be awarded to that spouse unless a denial of support would constitute a “manifest injustice.” This is a powerful defense under Virginia Code § 20-107.1(E). Other forms of marital fault (e.g., cruelty, desertion) may also be considered by the court.
   • Gather irrefutable evidence of adultery, if applicable, to present to the court.
3. Duration of Marriage vs. Requested Term: Argue that the requested duration of support is disproportionate to the length of the marriage, especially in shorter marriages.
4. Pre-Marital Agreements: If a valid pre-marital or post-nuptial agreement addresses spousal support, it can serve as a binding defense against claims contrary to its terms.

Regardless of whether you are seeking or defending against a claim, the critical element is the thorough collection and presentation of evidence. Financial affidavits, tax returns, bank statements, and witness testimony all play a crucial role. A seasoned spousal support lawyer in Roanoke VA will guide you through this evidentiary maze, ensuring your case is presented with the utmost professionalism and persuasive power. We understand the local court’s nuances and how to best advocate for our clients in a divorce financial support Roanoke case.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Virginia Spousal Support Cases

Navigating spousal support without experienced legal guidance can lead to costly errors that undermine your financial well-being. Avoiding these common pitfalls is as crucial as understanding the law itself.

After more than two decades practicing in Roanoke family courts, I’ve seen countless clients inadvertently jeopardize their cases by making avoidable mistakes. Here are some of the most frequent errors and how to steer clear of them:

1. Failing to Disclose All Financial Information: Whether intentional or accidental, incomplete or inaccurate financial disclosure is a serious error. Courts require full transparency. Hiding assets or income can lead to severe penalties, including sanctions, adverse rulings, or even charges of perjury. Always provide complete and accurate financial statements.
2. Ignoring the Tax Implications: With changes in federal tax law, spousal support is generally no longer deductible by the payer or taxable to the recipient at the federal level for divorces finalized after December 31, 2018. However, Virginia state tax implications may still apply. Failing to understand these consequences can lead to unexpected tax burdens.
3. Delaying Legal Action: The longer you wait to address spousal support after separation, the more complex it can become, especially regarding demonstrating the marital standard of living or tracing assets. Furthermore, failing to file for support before a final divorce decree is entered without reservation of spousal support can permanently waive your right to it.
4. Underestimating or Overestimating Earning Capacity: Courts will often consider each party’s potential earning capacity, not just current income. Underestimating your own capacity can lead to insufficient support, while overestimating your spouse’s can lead to an unrealistic demand that the court denies. Vocational evaluations can be crucial here.
5. Neglecting to Document Contributions and Sacrifices: Non-monetary contributions (e.g., homemaking, childcare, supporting a spouse’s career) and career sacrifices are vital factors. Failing to document how these impacted your financial standing or contributed to the marriage’s well-being weakens your argument.
6. Emotional Decision-Making: Spousal support cases are highly emotional, but allowing emotions to dictate strategy can lead to irrational decisions. A seasoned family court lawyer Roanoke provides an objective perspective, focusing on legal and financial realities.
7. Failing to Understand Material Change in Circumstances: If you have an existing support order, a significant change in income, health, or living circumstances for either party could warrant a modification. Failing to petition the court for modification when a material change occurs can result in continued payments that are no longer equitable or missed opportunities to receive deserved support. Referencing Virginia Code § 20-108.1 is key here.
8. Agreeing to Unfavorable Terms Without Legal Review: Never sign a spousal support agreement without a thorough review by an experienced alimony attorney Virginia. What seems fair today might have devastating long-term consequences.

Avoiding these common missteps requires diligent preparation, a clear understanding of Virginia law, and the strategic guidance of a seasoned spousal support lawyer in Roanoke VA. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is dedicated to helping clients navigate these challenges successfully.

Glossary of Essential Spousal Support Terms

Understanding the specialized legal terminology associated with spousal support is crucial for anyone navigating a divorce in Virginia. This glossary defines key terms you’ll encounter.

Alimony:

The traditional term for spousal support, referring to financial payments made by one spouse to another after separation or divorce.

Pendente Lite Support:

Temporary spousal support ordered by a court to be paid by one spouse to the other while a divorce case is pending (Latin for “awaiting the litigation”).

Material Change in Circumstances:

A significant, unanticipated change in either party’s financial situation (e.g., job loss, severe illness) that may warrant a modification of an existing spousal support order under Virginia Code § 20-108.1.

Earning Capacity:

A party’s ability to earn income, considering their education, skills, work history, health, and current job market. Courts often assess earning capacity rather than just current income.

Rehabilitative Spousal Support:

Support awarded for a specific, limited duration, intended to allow the recipient spouse to gain education, training, or experience to become self-supporting.

Indefinite Spousal Support:

Support awarded for an unlimited period, typically in long-term marriages where one spouse has significantly diminished earning capacity due to age, health, or marital decisions.

Marital Fault:

Specific behaviors by a spouse (e.g., adultery, desertion, cruelty) that can impact spousal support decisions in Virginia, potentially barring or reducing an award, as per Virginia Code § 20-107.1(E).

Real-Life Scenarios: Spousal Support Questions in Roanoke

Clients often approach us with similar foundational questions, reflecting common concerns about spousal support in Roanoke. These scenarios illustrate how Virginia law might apply to real-world situations, offering clarity on potential outcomes.

Here are a few common scenarios and how a seasoned family court lawyer Roanoke might approach them:

Scenario 1: Long-Term Marriage with One Stay-at-Home Parent
“My spouse and I have been married for 25 years. I stopped working after our first child was born to raise our family, while my spouse advanced significantly in their career. Now we are divorcing. Can I expect to receive substantial spousal support in Roanoke, VA?”
In this scenario, a court would heavily weigh the long duration of the marriage, your nonmonetary contributions to the family’s well-being, and the significant disparity in current earning capacities. It’s highly probable that a court would award indefinite spousal support, or support for a substantial fixed duration, to allow you to maintain a lifestyle similar to that enjoyed during the marriage, and to compensate for your sacrificed career opportunities. The standard of living during the marriage and your age/health would also be key factors under Virginia Code § 20-107.1. A seasoned spousal support lawyer Roanoke VA would meticulously document your contributions and the financial impact of your career sacrifice.

Scenario 2: Short-Term Marriage and Accusations of Adultery
“I’ve been married for three years, and my spouse is now divorcing me. They are accusing me of adultery and threatening to deny me any spousal support. Is this possible under Virginia law, even though I have limited income right now?”
Under Virginia Code § 20-107.1(E), a court generally will not award spousal support to a spouse who committed adultery, unless denying support would constitute a “manifest injustice.” For a short-term marriage, the argument for manifest injustice is often harder to make. While your current income might be limited, the court would also consider your earning capacity and the short duration of the marriage. Your spouse would need to prove adultery with clear and convincing evidence. An alimony attorney Virginia would investigate the adultery claim, assess the strength of the evidence, and determine if an argument for manifest injustice or other defenses can be made.

Scenario 3: Request for Modification Due to Job Loss
“I was ordered to pay spousal support two years ago, but I recently lost my high-paying job due to company downsizing. My new job pays significantly less. Can I get my spousal support payments reduced in Roanoke, VA?”
Yes, under Virginia Code § 20-108.1, a material change in circumstances could warrant a modification of spousal support. Your job loss and substantial reduction in income would likely constitute such a change, provided it was not voluntary or self-inflicted. You would need to file a petition with the Roanoke Circuit Court, demonstrating the change and its impact on your ability to pay. The court would then re-evaluate the factors under § 20-107.1 based on your new financial reality and potentially adjust the support amount. Prompt action with a family court lawyer Roanoke is crucial, as modifications typically take effect from the date of filing the petition, not the date of job loss.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Virginia Alimony

Gaining clarity on the common questions surrounding spousal support is a critical first step for anyone navigating divorce in Roanoke. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Q1: Is spousal support automatically awarded in every Virginia divorce?
A1: No. Spousal support is not automatic. It must be requested by one of the parties, and the court will only award it after considering the specific factors outlined in Virginia Code § 20-107.1, or if the parties reach a mutual agreement.

Q2: How is the amount of spousal support determined in Roanoke, VA?
A2: The court does not use a rigid formula. Instead, it considers 13 statutory factors, including the parties’ financial resources, needs, earning capacities, marital standard of living, duration of the marriage, and contributions to the family’s well-being. It’s a discretionary decision based on these factors.

Q3: Is marital fault, like adultery, relevant to spousal support in Virginia?
A3: Yes, marital fault is highly relevant. Under Virginia Code § 20-107.1(E), if a court finds that the spouse seeking support committed adultery, no support shall be awarded to that spouse unless a denial would constitute a manifest injustice.

Q4: How long does spousal support usually last in Virginia?
A4: The duration of spousal support varies greatly. It can be for a defined, limited period (rehabilitative) or for an indefinite period, particularly in long-term marriages. The court considers the same 13 factors for duration as for amount and entitlement.

Q5: Can spousal support be modified after the divorce is final?
A5: Yes, generally. Unless the spousal support agreement or order explicitly states it is non-modifiable, either party can petition the court for a modification upon showing a material change in circumstances since the last order, pursuant to Virginia Code § 20-108.1.

Q6: What if my ex-spouse stops paying court-ordered spousal support?
A6: If your ex-spouse fails to make court-ordered payments, you can file a Motion to Show Cause with the Roanoke Circuit Court, requesting that the court compel payment and potentially find them in contempt of court. Arrearages can also be reduced to a judgment.

Q7: Are prenuptial agreements enforceable regarding spousal support in Virginia?
A7: Yes, properly executed and valid prenuptial or postnuptial agreements can dictate spousal support terms, including waiving it entirely. These agreements are generally enforceable in Virginia courts unless specific grounds for invalidation exist.

Q8: What is pendente lite support?
A8: Pendente lite support is temporary spousal support awarded by the court during the pendency of the divorce proceedings. It helps to maintain the financial status quo until a final spousal support order can be issued.

Q9: How do courts determine earning capacity in spousal support cases?
A9: Courts evaluate an individual’s potential to earn income based on their education, work history, skills, health, and current job market. If a spouse is voluntarily underemployed, the court may impute income to them based on their earning capacity.

Q10: What financial documents do I need for a spousal support case?
A10: You will need extensive financial documentation, including tax returns (past 3-5 years), W-2s, pay stubs, bank statements, investment account statements, retirement account statements, debt statements, and detailed expense lists. Our SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist can guide you.

Q11: Can spousal support be awarded if we were never married but lived together?
A11: No. In Virginia, spousal support is a legal remedy available only to parties who are or were legally married. Virginia does not recognize common-law marriage or award support for cohabitation agreements.

Q12: Does child support impact spousal support calculations?
A12: Yes, they are interconnected. Child support is typically determined first, and the income used for child support calculations (after deductions) will then impact the funds available for spousal support for both parties.

Q13: What is the difference between rehabilitative and indefinite spousal support?
A13: Rehabilitative support is for a fixed term, designed to help a spouse become self-sufficient. Indefinite support has no set end date and is typically reserved for longer marriages or where one spouse has a permanent inability to become self-supporting.

Q14: Should I try to reach an agreement on spousal support or go to court?
A14: Reaching a mutual agreement through negotiation or mediation is often preferred as it gives both parties more control over the outcome, reduces legal fees, and can preserve amicability. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, litigation is necessary, and a seasoned spousal support lawyer Roanoke VA is essential.

Q15: What happens to spousal support if the recipient remarries?
A15: In Virginia, unless otherwise agreed upon in a non-modifiable agreement, spousal support automatically terminates upon the remarriage of the recipient spouse, as per Virginia Code § 20-109. Also, under Virginia Code § 20-109, it can terminate upon the death of either party.

Protecting Your Financial Future: Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

The complexities of spousal support in Roanoke, Virginia, demand the attention of an experienced legal team. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our seasoned attorneys bring over 20 years of hands-on experience to every case, providing authoritative guidance and vigorous representation. We understand the local legal landscape, the nuances of Virginia Code § 20-107.1, and the intricate financial details necessary to build a compelling case.

Whether you are seeking spousal support to ensure your financial stability or defending against an unfair claim, our firm is committed to protecting your interests. We will meticulously analyze your situation, help you complete resources like the SRIS Virginia Spousal Support Factors Checklist, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Don’t leave your financial future to chance.

To discuss your spousal support matter with a knowledgeable alimony attorney Virginia, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today at 888-437-7747. Let us provide the strategic counsel and peace of mind you deserve.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a qualified attorney regarding your specific legal situation. Laws vary by jurisdiction and are subject to change. Do not act or refrain from acting based on information presented here without seeking professional legal counsel. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. does not guarantee any specific outcome in any legal matter.