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The VS 4 form serves as a vital document in the context of divorce or annulment proceedings within the Commonwealth of Virginia. This form is required to be completed by either the petitioner or their attorney and must be filed with the clerk of court alongside the petition or decree. It is essential that the form is prepared using a typewriter or printed in black, unfading ink, as it becomes a permanent record. The clerk of court is responsible for certifying the completed form and forwarding it to the state registrar by the 10th day of the month following the final decree. The VS 4 form collects comprehensive information about both parties involved in the marriage, including their full names, social security numbers, dates of birth, and places of birth. It also requires details about the marriage itself, such as the date and place of marriage, the number of children under 18, and the legal grounds for divorce. Additionally, the form addresses custody arrangements for any minor children and specifies which party the divorce is granted to. This structured approach not only ensures accurate record-keeping but also facilitates the processing of divorce cases within the legal system.

Vs 4 Example

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)

 

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Governing Law This form is governed by Section 32.1-268 of the Code of Virginia.
Purpose The form is used to report a divorce or annulment in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Submission Deadline The clerk of court must certify and forward the form to the state registrar by the 10th day of the month following the final decree.
Completion Requirements Items 1-30 must be completed by the petitioner or their attorney, using a typewriter or black ink.
Permanent Record This form becomes a permanent record once filed with the clerk of court.
Information Required Petitioners must provide detailed personal information, including names, birth dates, and social security numbers.
Marriage Details The form requires information about the marriage, including date, place, and number of previous marriages.
Children's Custody Petitioners must indicate the number of children under 18 and who has physical custody.
Informant's Signature The informant, typically the petitioner or their attorney, must sign the form to certify its accuracy.

Guide to Using Vs 4

Filling out the Vs 4 form is an important step in the divorce or annulment process. It requires careful attention to detail. After completing this form, you will need to submit it to the clerk of the court along with your petition or decree. Make sure to provide accurate information, as this form becomes part of a permanent record.

  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. Check the appropriate box for Husband, Wife, or Spouse.
  3. Provide the social security number of Party A.
  4. Indicate the place of birth for Party A (state or foreign country).
  5. Enter the date of birth for Party A, including the maiden name if applicable.
  6. Specify the race and sex of Party A.
  7. Indicate the number of this marriage for Party A (first, second, etc.).
  8. Provide the highest education level completed by Party A.
  9. Fill in the usual residence for Party A, including street number, city or town, county, and state.
  10. Repeat steps 2 through 9 for Party B, ensuring to check the appropriate box for Husband, Wife, or Spouse.
  11. Indicate the place of marriage (city or town, county, state or foreign country).
  12. Enter the date of marriage.
  13. Provide the date of separation.
  14. Fill in the number of children under 18.
  15. Specify the number of children under 18 in this family whose physical custody was awarded to Party A, Party B, Joint, or Other. Indicate if there are no children.
  16. Check the box for plaintiff (Party A, Party B, or Both).
  17. Indicate who the divorce was granted to (Both, Party A, or Party B).
  18. Provide the legal ground or cause of divorce (or state if it is an annulment).
  19. Sign the form as the informant and print your name.
  20. Fill in the address of the attorney for the petitioner, if applicable.
  21. Finally, certify that a final decree of divorce or annulment was entered, including the date and court file number.
  22. Sign and print the name of the clerk of court or deputy.

Get Answers on Vs 4

What is the Vs 4 form?

The Vs 4 form is a report of divorce or annulment used in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is required to be completed by the petitioner or their attorney and filed with the Clerk of Court along with the petition or decree. This form serves as a permanent record and is forwarded to the State Registrar.

Who needs to complete the Vs 4 form?

The form must be completed by either the petitioner or their attorney. This includes providing detailed information about both parties involved in the divorce or annulment, such as names, social security numbers, and places of birth.

What information is required on the Vs 4 form?

The Vs 4 form requires the following information:

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

How should the Vs 4 form be filled out?

The form should be completed using a typewriter or printed in black, unfading ink. It is essential to ensure that all information is accurate and legible, as this form becomes part of a permanent record.

Where do I submit the Vs 4 form?

The completed Vs 4 form must be filed with the Clerk of Court in the jurisdiction where the divorce or annulment is taking place. It should be submitted along with the petition or decree for processing.

What happens after I submit the Vs 4 form?

Once the form is submitted, the Clerk of Court will certify the document and forward it to the State Registrar by the 10th day of the month following the final decree. This ensures that the divorce or annulment is officially recorded.

Is there a deadline for submitting the Vs 4 form?

Yes, the Vs 4 form should be submitted along with the petition or decree at the time of filing for divorce or annulment. It is important to adhere to this timeline to ensure proper processing.

What if I make a mistake on the Vs 4 form?

If a mistake is made on the form, it is advisable to correct it before submission. Errors can lead to delays or complications in the processing of your divorce or annulment. If the form has already been submitted, you may need to contact the Clerk of Court for guidance on how to rectify the issue.

Can I get help with completing the Vs 4 form?

Yes, individuals can seek assistance from an attorney or legal consultant to help complete the Vs 4 form. This can be particularly beneficial for those who may be unfamiliar with the requirements or who have complex situations.

What is the purpose of the information collected on the Vs 4 form?

The information collected on the Vs 4 form is used for vital records purposes. It helps maintain accurate records of divorces and annulments in Virginia, which can be important for legal, statistical, and personal reasons.

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 that your form is completed correctly and submitted without issues.

One frequent error is failing to provide complete names. When filling out the form, it’s essential to include the full names of both parties involved, including any middle names or suffixes. Omitting a middle name or using initials instead of full names can create confusion and may result in the form being rejected.

Another common mistake is neglecting to check the appropriate boxes for party designation. Clearly indicate whether the individual is the husband, wife, or spouse by checking the correct box. Mislabeling can lead to misunderstandings in the legal process and may require additional paperwork to rectify.

Many individuals also overlook the importance of providing accurate social security numbers. This information is crucial for identification purposes. Entering an incorrect number can cause significant delays in processing the form. Always double-check this information before submission.

Additionally, people often forget to specify the number of the marriage. It’s important to indicate whether this is the first, second, or subsequent marriage. This detail can impact the legal proceedings and should not be overlooked.

Another mistake involves the education section. Some individuals do not specify the highest grade completed, which is a required field. This information is necessary for demographic purposes and helps in accurately processing the form.

Lastly, many fail to sign the form or provide the name and address of the informant. The signature of the petitioner or attorney is essential for the form to be valid. Without it, the submission may be considered incomplete. Ensure that all necessary signatures are in place before filing.

By being aware of these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your VS 4 form is filled out correctly, minimizing the chances of delays or complications in your divorce proceedings.

Documents used along the form

The VS 4 form is a crucial document for reporting a divorce or annulment in Virginia. It is often accompanied by various other forms and documents that assist in the legal process. Below is a list of some commonly used forms and documents that may accompany the VS 4 form.

  • Petition for Divorce: This document initiates the divorce process. It outlines the grounds for divorce and includes relevant information about the parties involved.
  • Final Decree of Divorce: This is the court's official order that concludes the divorce proceedings. It includes the terms of the divorce, such as property division and custody arrangements.
  • Notice of Hearing: This document informs the parties involved of the date and time of the court hearing regarding the divorce. It ensures that all parties are aware of the proceedings.
  • Affidavit of Service: This form confirms that the petition for divorce has been properly served to the other party. It is essential for establishing that the court has jurisdiction.
  • Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: If children are involved, this document calculates the appropriate amount of child support based on state guidelines. It takes into account the income of both parents and the needs of the children.
  • Marital Settlement Agreement: This is a written agreement between the parties that outlines the terms of their divorce, including asset division, alimony, and custody arrangements.
  • Financial Disclosure Statement: This form requires both parties to disclose their financial information, including income, expenses, assets, and debts. It is used to ensure transparency during the divorce process.
  • Request for Production of Documents: This document requests specific documents from the other party that are relevant to the divorce proceedings. It can include financial records, communication, and other pertinent information.
  • Parenting Plan: If children are involved, this document outlines the custody and visitation arrangements agreed upon by both parents. It aims to provide a structured approach to co-parenting.
  • Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage: This is a formal document issued by the court that officially records the dissolution of the marriage. It serves as proof of the divorce for legal and personal purposes.

Each of these documents plays a significant role in the divorce process, ensuring that legal requirements are met and that both parties have a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities. Properly completing and submitting these forms can facilitate a smoother resolution of divorce proceedings.

Similar forms

  • Marriage License Application: Like the Vs 4 form, a marriage license application collects essential personal information about both parties, including names, birth dates, and places of birth. It is a legal document required before a marriage can take place.
  • Divorce Petition: A divorce petition outlines the reasons for the divorce and includes details about the parties involved. Similar to the Vs 4 form, it requires personal information and is filed with the court to initiate legal proceedings.
  • Child Custody Agreement: This document specifies custody arrangements for children involved in a divorce. It shares similarities with the Vs 4 form by documenting important details about the parents and children, ensuring clarity in legal responsibilities.
  • Final Judgment of Divorce: This document officially concludes the divorce process and includes details about the division of assets and custody. Like the Vs 4 form, it is a formal record that must be filed with the court and is critical for legal purposes.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VS 4 form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here are five guidelines to follow, as well as some common pitfalls to avoid.

  • Do ensure accuracy: Double-check all information for correctness, including names, dates, and Social Security numbers.
  • Do use black ink: Fill out the form using black, unfading ink or a typewriter to ensure clarity.
  • Do complete all required fields: Make sure to fill in all sections that apply to your situation, as incomplete forms may cause delays.
  • Do keep a copy: Retain a copy of the completed form for your records before submitting it.
  • Do submit on time: File the form with the Clerk of Court by the deadline to avoid complications with the divorce process.
  • Don't leave blanks: If a question does not apply, indicate this clearly instead of leaving it empty.
  • Don't use pencil: Avoid filling out the form in pencil, as it can smudge and is not considered a permanent record.
  • Don't alter the form: Do not make any unauthorized changes or additions to the form's structure or content.
  • Don't forget signatures: Ensure that all necessary signatures are included before submission, as missing signatures can lead to rejection.
  • Don't procrastinate: Submit the form as soon as possible to prevent last-minute issues or stress.

Misconceptions

Understanding the VS 4 form is crucial for anyone navigating the divorce process in Virginia. However, several misconceptions often arise regarding its purpose and requirements. Below are four common misconceptions, along with clarifications to help demystify the process.

  • Misconception 1: The VS 4 form is optional.
  • This is not true. The VS 4 form is a mandatory document that must be completed and filed with the court at the time of the divorce petition. It serves as an official record of the divorce or annulment and is required by the state.

  • Misconception 2: Only one party needs to fill out the form.
  • In fact, both parties involved in the divorce must provide their information on the form. This ensures that the record accurately reflects the details of both individuals, which is essential for legal purposes.

  • Misconception 3: The information on the VS 4 form is not confidential.
  • While the form is a public record, certain sensitive information, such as Social Security numbers, is protected under privacy laws. However, it is still important to handle the form with care and ensure that it is filled out accurately to avoid any potential legal issues.

  • Misconception 4: The VS 4 form can be submitted at any time after the divorce is finalized.
  • This is incorrect. The form must be submitted to the clerk of court within a specific timeframe, typically by the 10th day of the month following the final decree. Timely submission is essential for the proper processing of the divorce record.

By addressing these misconceptions, individuals can better understand their responsibilities and the importance of the VS 4 form in the divorce process.

Key takeaways

When filling out the VS 4 form, keep these key points in mind:

  • Complete all required items: Items 1-30 must be filled out by the petitioner or attorney.
  • Use a typewriter or black ink: It's important to prepare the form using a typewriter or print in black, unfading ink.
  • File with the Clerk of Court: Submit the completed form along with the petition or decree.
  • Permanent record: The Clerk of Court will certify the form and forward it to the State Registrar.
  • Timely submission: Ensure the form is filed by the 10th day of the month following the final decree.
  • Provide accurate information: Double-check details like names, dates of birth, and social security numbers.
  • Specify the number of marriages: Indicate whether this is the first, second, or subsequent marriage for both parties.
  • Indicate education level: Only the highest grade completed needs to be specified for both parties.
  • Children's custody: Clearly state the custody arrangement for any children under 18.
  • Sign the form: The informant must sign and provide their name and address at the end of the form.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that the VS 4 form is filled out correctly and processed without delays.