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The VS 4 form is an essential document in the Commonwealth of Virginia, specifically designed to report the details of a divorce or annulment. This form must be completed by either the petitioner or their attorney and filed with the clerk of court alongside the divorce petition or decree. It serves as a permanent record, and the clerk is responsible for certifying and forwarding it to the state registrar within ten days following the final decree. The form requires specific information about both parties involved in the marriage, including names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and educational backgrounds. Additionally, it gathers data on the number of children under 18, the grounds for divorce, and the custody arrangements made for those children. The VS 4 form also captures the place and date of marriage, as well as the date of separation. Each section must be filled out clearly, using a typewriter or black ink, to ensure legibility and compliance with state regulations. This form is not just a bureaucratic requirement; it plays a crucial role in maintaining accurate records of marital status changes within the state.

Preview - Vs 4 Form

NOTE:

ITEMS 1-30 ON THIS FORM TO BE COMPLETED BY PETITIONER OR ATTORNEY AND FILED WITH CLERK OF COURT WITH PETITION OR DECREE

PLEASE PREPARE BY TYPEWRITER OR PRINT IN BLACK UNFADING INK. THIS IS A PERMANENT RECORD

CLERK OF COURT WILL CERTIFY AND FORWARD TO STATE REGISTRAR BY 10TH DAY OF MONTH FOLLOWING DATE FINAL DECREE IS GRANTED

Section 32.1-268

CODE OF VIRGINIA

VS4 7/15

 

 

COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA- REPORT OF DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT

 

 

 

 

Department of Health- Division of Vital Records- Richmond

 

1. CIRCUIT COURT FOR CITYOR COUNTYOF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I STATE FILE NUMBER

 

2. FULL NAME

 

 

PARTYA

(check one)

 

0 HUSBAND

 

 

 

 

0 WIFE

D SPOUSE

 

 

(first. middle, last, suffix)

 

 

I 5. DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(maiden name, if any)

 

I

 

3. SOCIAL SECURITYNUMBER

4. PLACE OF BIRTH

(state or foreign country)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16. RACE

 

 

 

 

 

17. SEX

 

8. NUMBER OF THIS MARRIAGE (first, second, etc.)

 

 

 

 

I 9. EDUCATION (specify only highest grade

completed)

 

10. USUAL RESIDENCE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elementary or Secondary (0-12)

 

College (1-4 or 5+)

 

(street number or rural route number)

 

 

 

(city or

town)

 

 

 

(county if not independent city)

(state)

11. FULL NAME

 

 

PARTYB

(check one)

 

0 HUSBAND

 

 

 

 

D

WIFE

D SPOUSE

 

 

(first, middle, last, suffix)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(maiden name, if any)

 

112. SOCIAL SECURITYNUMBER

13. PLACE OF BIRTH (state or foreign country)

 

114. DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

15. RACE

 

 

116. SEX

 

17. NUMBER OF THIS MARRIAGE (first, second, etc.)

 

 

 

 

1

18. EDUCATION (specify only highest grade completed)

 

19. USUAL RESIDENCE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elementary or Secondary (0-12)

 

 

College (1-4 or 5+)

 

(street number or rural route number)

 

 

 

(city or town)

 

 

 

(county if not independent city)

(state)

20. PLACE OF MARRIAGE

(city or town)

 

 

(county)

 

 

(state or foreign country)

121. DATE OF MARRIAGE

 

122. DATE OF SEPARATION

23. NUMBER OF CHILDREN UNDER 18

24. NUMBER OF CHILDREN UNDER 18 IN THIS FAMILYWHOSE PHYSICAL CUSTODY\/VAS

AWARDED TO:

 

IN THIS FAMILY

 

 

 

Party A

Party B

 

Joint (Party A/Party B)

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

DNo Children

 

25. PLAINTIFF

OPARTYB

OBOTH

26. DIVORCE GRANTED TO

0BOTH

 

I

 

27. LEGAL GROUND OR

CAUSE OF DIVORCE (if annulment- so state)

 

OPARTYA

 

DPARTYA

D PARTYB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

28. INFORMANT'S

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D PETITIONER

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

29. NAME OF INFORMANT (Type or Print)

 

 

 

I

30. ADDRESS OF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D ATTORNEYFOR PETITIONER

 

 

 

 

 

(street number or rural route number)

 

(city or town)

(state)

I CERTIFYTHAT A FINAL DECREE OF

 

 

 

 

INFORMANT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONCERNING THE ABOVE

 

 

 

WAS ENTERED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(divorce or annulment)

 

 

 

 

(date of divorce or annulment)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MARRIAGE ANO WAS NUMBERED

 

(court file number)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE OF CLERK OF COURT OR DEPUTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAME OF CLERK OR DEPUTY

(Type or Print)

 

Document Specifics

Fact Name Details
Governing Law The form is governed by Section 32.1-268 of the Code of Virginia.
Purpose This form is used to report a divorce or annulment in Virginia.
Filing Requirements Items 1-30 must be completed by the petitioner or their attorney and filed with the clerk of court.
Certification Process The clerk of court certifies the document and forwards it to the state registrar by the 10th day of the month following the final decree.
Record Keeping This form is considered a permanent record, highlighting its importance in legal documentation.

Vs 4: Usage Instruction

Completing the Vs 4 form is a necessary step for individuals seeking to finalize their divorce or annulment in Virginia. This form gathers essential information that will be submitted to the Clerk of Court and subsequently forwarded to the State Registrar. Below are the steps to fill out the form accurately.

  1. Begin by entering the Circuit Court for City or County and the State File Number at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the Full Name of Party A (first, middle, last, suffix) and check the appropriate box for Husband, Wife, or Spouse.
  3. Provide the Date of Birth and Maiden Name of Party A, if applicable.
  4. Enter the Social Security Number and Place of Birth (state or foreign country) for Party A.
  5. Indicate the Race and Sex of Party A.
  6. Specify the Number of This Marriage (first, second, etc.) for Party A.
  7. Provide the Education Level (highest grade completed) for Party A.
  8. Fill in the Usual Residence details for Party A, including street number, city or town, county, and state.
  9. Repeat steps 2 to 8 for Party B, ensuring to check the appropriate box for Husband, Wife, or Spouse.
  10. Enter the Place of Marriage (city or town, county, state or foreign country).
  11. Provide the Date of Marriage and Date of Separation.
  12. Indicate the Number of Children Under 18 and specify their physical custody arrangements.
  13. Identify the Plaintiff as either Party A, Party B, or Both.
  14. Indicate to whom the Divorce was Granted.
  15. Specify the Legal Ground or Cause of Divorce.
  16. Sign the form as the Informant and print your name.
  17. Provide the Address of the attorney for the petitioner, if applicable.
  18. Finally, certify that a final decree of divorce or annulment was entered, including the Date and Court File Number, and have the Clerk of Court or Deputy sign and print their name.

Learn More on Vs 4

What is the purpose of the VS 4 form?

The VS 4 form is used to report a divorce or annulment in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It collects essential information about the parties involved, including their names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and details about the marriage and separation. This form is filed with the Clerk of Court and is forwarded to the State Registrar for permanent record-keeping.

Who is responsible for completing the VS 4 form?

The petitioner or their attorney must complete items 1-30 on the VS 4 form. It is crucial to fill out the form accurately and legibly, as it becomes a permanent record. The completed form should be filed along with the petition or decree in the appropriate circuit court.

What information is required on the VS 4 form?

The VS 4 form requires various details, including:

  • Full names of both parties
  • Social security numbers
  • Places and dates of birth
  • Number of the marriage (first, second, etc.)
  • Education level
  • Usual residence
  • Date and place of marriage
  • Date of separation
  • Number of children under 18
  • Legal grounds for divorce

This information helps in the accurate documentation of the divorce or annulment.

When should the VS 4 form be filed?

The VS 4 form must be filed with the Clerk of Court at the same time as the petition or decree for divorce or annulment. It is important to ensure that the form is submitted promptly to meet legal requirements and timelines.

What happens after the VS 4 form is filed?

Once the VS 4 form is filed, the Clerk of Court will certify it and forward it to the State Registrar. This process must be completed by the 10th day of the month following the date the final decree is granted. The information on the form becomes part of the permanent public record of the divorce or annulment.

Can the VS 4 form be amended after it is filed?

Amendments to the VS 4 form may be possible, but they typically require specific procedures to be followed. If errors are discovered after filing, it is advisable to consult with an attorney or the Clerk of Court for guidance on how to correct the information.

Is there a fee associated with filing the VS 4 form?

Filing fees may apply when submitting the VS 4 form along with the divorce petition or decree. The exact fee can vary by jurisdiction. It is recommended to check with the local Clerk of Court for current fee schedules and payment methods.

Common mistakes

Filling out the VS 4 form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience.

One frequent error is not completing all required fields. Items 1-30 must be filled out by the petitioner or attorney. Missing information can result in the form being rejected or delayed. Always double-check that every section is complete before submission.

Another mistake is using the wrong ink or method. The instructions clearly state to use a typewriter or print in black unfading ink. Using colored ink or handwriting can make the form difficult to read and may cause issues with processing.

People often overlook the importance of accurate names. Ensure that the full names of both parties are correctly spelled, including any suffixes. A simple typo can lead to confusion and may require additional paperwork to correct.

Additionally, many individuals forget to provide their social security numbers. This information is crucial for identification purposes. Without it, the form may not be processed, leading to unnecessary delays.

Another common mistake involves the education section. Participants should only specify the highest grade completed. Providing unnecessary details can complicate the form and may lead to questions from the court.

Finally, failing to sign the form can be a significant oversight. The informant's signature is required to validate the document. Make sure to sign and date the form before submitting it to avoid any issues.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can fill out the VS 4 form more effectively and help ensure that your divorce or annulment process proceeds smoothly.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the divorce process, several important forms and documents accompany the VS 4 form. Each of these documents plays a critical role in ensuring that the divorce proceedings are properly documented and processed. Understanding these forms can help streamline the process and reduce potential delays.

  • Petition for Divorce: This document initiates the divorce process. It outlines the grounds for divorce and provides essential details about both parties, including their names, addresses, and any children involved. Filing this petition is the first step in formally requesting a divorce from the court.
  • Final Decree of Divorce: Once the court has reviewed the case, this document serves as the official order that terminates the marriage. It includes details about the division of assets, child custody arrangements, and any alimony obligations. This decree is essential for legal recognition of the divorce.
  • Child Custody Agreement: If children are involved, this document outlines the custody arrangements between the parents. It specifies who will have physical and legal custody, visitation rights, and any child support obligations. This agreement is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the children post-divorce.
  • Financial Affidavit: This form provides a comprehensive overview of each party's financial situation. It includes income, expenses, assets, and debts. Courts often require this affidavit to make informed decisions about property division and support obligations.

Each of these documents complements the VS 4 form, collectively ensuring that the divorce process is thorough and legally sound. Properly completing and submitting these forms can help avoid unnecessary complications and ensure a smoother transition for all parties involved.

Similar forms

The Form VS 4 is similar to the Form VS 4A, which is used for reporting a marriage. Both documents require detailed personal information about the parties involved, such as names, dates of birth, and places of birth. Just like the VS 4, the VS 4A must be completed by the petitioner or attorney and filed with the clerk of court. They both serve as official records that are forwarded to the state registrar, ensuring that vital statistics are accurately maintained.

Another document that resembles the VS 4 is the Form VS 5, which is used to report a death. This form collects essential information about the deceased, including their full name, date of birth, and social security number. Similar to the VS 4, the VS 5 must be completed and filed by an authorized individual, such as a funeral director or family member. Both forms contribute to the state's vital records, helping to maintain a comprehensive database of life events.

The Form VS 6 is also akin to the VS 4, as it is used to report a birth. It gathers crucial details such as the child's name, date of birth, and parents' information. Like the VS 4, the VS 6 must be completed and submitted to the clerk of court or the appropriate authority. Both forms play a vital role in documenting significant life events and ensuring that accurate records are kept for future reference.

The Form VS 7 is another similar document, used for reporting an adoption. This form captures information about the child being adopted and the adopting parents. Similar to the VS 4, the VS 7 must be filled out by the petitioner or attorney and submitted to the court. Both forms require the same level of detail and serve as official records that are vital for the legal recognition of significant life changes.

The Form VS 8 is comparable to the VS 4 as it is utilized for reporting a name change. This document requires individuals to provide personal information, including their previous name and the new name they wish to adopt. Like the VS 4, the VS 8 must be filed with the court, and it also becomes part of the public record. Both forms ensure that changes in personal status are officially recognized and documented.

Lastly, the Form VS 9 is similar to the VS 4, as it serves to report a civil union dissolution. This document collects information about the parties involved, including their names and the date of the civil union. Similar to the VS 4, the VS 9 must be completed by the petitioner or attorney and filed with the court. Both forms are essential for maintaining accurate public records regarding personal relationships and their legal statuses.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VS 4 form, it's essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Below are some guidelines on what you should and shouldn't do to ensure your submission is accurate and accepted.

  • Do complete all required fields thoroughly. Missing information can delay processing.
  • Do use a typewriter or print in black, unfading ink. This ensures clarity and permanence.
  • Do check the accuracy of names and dates. Double-checking helps avoid mistakes that could complicate your case.
  • Do sign the form where required. An unsigned form may be deemed invalid.
  • Do file the form with the Clerk of Court along with the petition or decree. This step is crucial for proper processing.
  • Don't use pencil or colored ink. These can fade and are not acceptable for permanent records.
  • Don't leave any fields blank unless specifically instructed. Incomplete forms can lead to delays.
  • Don't forget to include the correct court file number. This number is vital for tracking your case.
  • Don't submit the form without reviewing it for errors. A thorough review can save time and prevent complications.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your VS 4 form is filled out correctly and processed without unnecessary delays.

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about the VS 4 form:

  1. Only attorneys can fill out the VS 4 form.

    This is not true. The form can be completed by either the petitioner or their attorney. Both have the responsibility to provide accurate information.

  2. The VS 4 form is only needed for divorces.

    Many believe this form is exclusive to divorce cases. However, it is also used for annulments, making it applicable in both situations.

  3. The information on the VS 4 form is not important.

    Some may think the details are trivial. In reality, the information is crucial for maintaining accurate public records and for the state registrar.

  4. The form must be filled out in a specific way.

    While the form does have guidelines, it can be filled out using either a typewriter or by hand, as long as black, unfading ink is used.

  5. Submitting the VS 4 form is optional.

    This is a misconception. The form must be filed with the clerk of court along with the petition or decree for it to be valid.

  6. The VS 4 form is only relevant for the parties involved.

    In fact, the information collected on this form serves a broader purpose, as it contributes to vital statistics and public records.

  7. All sections of the VS 4 form must be completed.

    While many sections are required, some may not apply to every case. It is important to only fill out what is relevant.

  8. The VS 4 form can be submitted at any time.

    This is incorrect. The form must be submitted by the 10th day of the month following the final decree date to ensure timely processing.

Key takeaways

Filling out the VS 4 form, which serves as a report of divorce or annulment in Virginia, is a critical step in the legal process. Here are some key takeaways to ensure that you navigate this form effectively:

  • Complete by Typewriter or Ink: It is essential to fill out the form using a typewriter or print in black, unfading ink. This ensures clarity and legibility, as the form becomes a permanent record.
  • Petitioner or Attorney: Items 1-30 on the form must be completed by either the petitioner or their attorney. This responsibility underscores the importance of accuracy in the information provided.
  • Filing with the Clerk of Court: Once completed, the form must be filed with the Clerk of Court alongside the petition or decree. This step is crucial for official processing.
  • Timely Submission: The Clerk of Court is required to certify and forward the form to the State Registrar by the 10th day of the month following the final decree. Adhering to this timeline is important to avoid delays.
  • Provide Accurate Personal Information: Ensure that all personal details, such as names, birth dates, and social security numbers, are accurate. Mistakes can lead to complications in the divorce process.
  • Indicate Marital History: The form asks for the number of the marriage (first, second, etc.) and details about previous marriages. This information helps clarify the context of the current divorce.
  • Custody and Children: If applicable, be sure to specify the number of children under 18 and who has physical custody. This information is critical for legal and welfare considerations.
  • Signature of Informant: The form must be signed by the informant, who can be the petitioner or their attorney. The signature authenticates the information provided and confirms its accuracy.

By keeping these takeaways in mind, you can ensure that the VS 4 form is filled out correctly and submitted in a timely manner, facilitating a smoother divorce or annulment process.