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In today’s technological world, it comes as no surprise that almost everything is online.  So, it should not surprise you to learn that the entire Virginia Code, in all its glory, is online with a user-friendly, searchable database.

What is the Virginia Code?

The Virginia Code is, simply put, the laws in Virginia.  The Code is the collection of statutes that the legislature has created and amended over time.  These written statutes (a.k.a. “code sections”) are laws that govern our society.

If you have ever been in criminal or traffic court, you have probably heard the Judge or the clerk announce to a defendant, “You have been charged with violating Section 18.2-xxxx of the Code”.  That is a reference to one statute.  But there are thousands, governing everything including crime, contract, divorce, custody, probate, licensing, insurance, adoption, etc.

In Virginia, Courts across the Commonwealth have made it relatively easy to go online with your computer, tablet or smart phone and check the status of your pending criminal, civil, or divorce case.   The amount of information provided depends on the type of case and the particular Court, but will usually include the Court dates, case numbers, filing dates, offense dates and arrest dates (if applicable).  In some cases, the attorney’s names and the final disposition will also be posted online.

If you find yourself in need of a trial attorney, you are likely in the midst of a serious crisis.  Whether you’ve been charged with a crime, been served with a divorce complaint, or been seriously injured by another’s negligence, the attorney you select to represent you can have a serious impact on the outcome of your case.

That being said, although you want to hire a trial lawyer as soon as possible, it is also important that you not rush your decision.  Make sure you feel comfortable that the attorney you hire is right for your case.