Grounds of Defense
Virginia · Supreme Court of Virginia
This form is used by a defendant to tell the court the reasons why they believe they do not owe the plaintiff money or property. It requires the defendant to list these reasons in numbered paragraphs.
Where this fits in a case
RespondStage: Respond
This form is used in a civil case in the General District Court. It sets deadlines for the defendant to file and serve their written reasons for defense.
Usually filed by the person responding.
Official instructions
How-to guides published by the court for this form.
Common questions
- Who must file this form?
- The form is addressed to the defendant, who must file and serve it according to the court's requirements.
- What does this form ask for?
- It asks the defendant to fully state, in numbered paragraphs, every reason why they do not think they owe the plaintiff money or property.
- What happens if I do not follow this form?
- The form notes that failing to follow the order might lead to the judge awarding summary judgment to the other side.
Revision history
No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 10, 2026.
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