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Bill

HB 556

Divorce decrees; reports, includes social security numbers or other control numbers.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Atoosa Reaser

HB 556 requires Virginia divorce and annulment decrees to include additional specified information, strengthening legal documentation for family law cases.

Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
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Bill Summary · HB 556

Legislative bill overview

HB 556 modifies Virginia law regarding the information that must be included in final divorce decrees and annulment orders. The bill requires additional documentation or data to be specified in these final court orders, though the exact requirements are contained in the committee substitute version printed on February 4, 2026.

Why is this important

Divorce and annulment decrees are critical legal documents that establish property division, custody arrangements, support obligations, and other critical matters affecting families. Clear and complete final orders reduce future disputes, facilitate enforcement of court orders, and provide necessary documentation for subsequent legal proceedings, financial transactions, and custody arrangements.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of required information: The specific additional information mandated could increase administrative burdens on courts or create compliance challenges for judges and staff
  • Implementation costs: Courts may need resources to comply with new documentation requirements, raising questions about fiscal impact on the judicial system
  • Standardization concerns: There may be debate over whether uniform statewide requirements are appropriate or whether courts need flexibility to address individual case circumstances

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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