{"formats":[{"name":"JSON","format":"json","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-json\/16.1-241.json"},{"name":"Plain Text","format":"text","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-text\/16.1-241.txt"},{"name":"XML","format":"xml","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-xml\/16.1-241.xml"},{"name":"HTML","format":"html","url":"\/downloads\/2025\/code-html\/16.1-241.html"}],"law_id":71312,"edition_id":1,"section_id":71312,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241","catch_line":"Jurisdiction; consent for abortion","history":"Code 1950, \u00a7 16.1-158; 1956, c. 555; 1960, c. 388; 1968, c. 225; 1970, cc. 232, 600; 1973, c. 440; 1976, cc. 42, 324; 1977, cc. 525, 559; 1978, c. 648; 1979, cc. 597, 605, 628; 1980, cc. 527, 529; 1981, cc. 454, 475, 488, 491, 501, 502, 510; 1982, c. 46; 1983, c. 280; 1984, cc. 631, 645, 651, 665, 669; 1985, c. 270; 1986, cc. 59, 506; 1987, c. 632; 1988, cc. 797, 906; 1989, cc. 368, 733; 1990, cc. 704, 975; 1991, cc. 511, 715; 1992, cc. 585, 742; 1994, cc. 575, 719, 813, 859, 949; 1995, cc. 7, 665, 772, 826, 852; 1996, cc. 755, 914; 1997, cc. 690, 708; 1998, c. 829; 1999, cc. 697, 721, 1028; 2000, c. 830; 2003, cc. 229, 960, 962; 2004, c. 588; 2005, cc. 716, 839, 890; 2007, cc. 284, 370; 2008, cc. 164, 201; 2010, c. 402; 2012, cc. 424, 476, 507, 637; 2014, c. 653; 2017, c. 623; 2019, cc. 27, 412, 631; 2020, cc. 95, 732, 987, 988; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc. 187, 286; 2024, c. 737; 2025, cc. 143, 547.","full_text":"The judges of the juvenile and domestic relations district court elected or appointed under this law shall be conservators of the peace within the corporate limits of the cities and the boundaries of the counties for which they are respectively chosen and within one mile beyond the limits of such cities and counties. Except as hereinafter provided, each juvenile and domestic relations district court shall have, within the limits of the territory for which it is created, exclusive original jurisdiction, and within one mile beyond the limits of said city or county, concurrent jurisdiction with the juvenile court or courts of the adjoining city or county, over all cases, matters and proceedings involving:\n\nA\n\nThe custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child:1\n\nWho is alleged to be abused, neglected, in need of services, in need of supervision, a status offender, or delinquent except where the jurisdiction of the juvenile court has been terminated or divested;2\n\nWho is abandoned by his parent or other custodian or who by reason of the absence or physical or mental incapacity of his parents is without parental care and guardianship;\n\t\t\t\t2a. Who is at risk of being abused or neglected by a parent or custodian who has been adjudicated as having abused or neglected another child in the care of the parent or custodian;3\n\nWhose custody, visitation or support is a subject of controversy or requires determination. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts having equity jurisdiction, except as provided in § 16.1-244;4\n\nWho is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or whose parent or parents for good cause desire to be relieved of his care and custody;5\n\nWhere the termination of residual parental rights and responsibilities is sought. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts having equity jurisdiction, as provided in § 16.1-244;6\n\nWho is charged with a traffic infraction as defined in § 46.2-100; or7\n\nWho is alleged to have refused to take a blood test in violation of § 18.2-268.2.\n\t\t\t\tIn any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony enumerated in subsection B of § 16.1-269.1, and for any charges ancillary thereto, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense, and any matters related thereto. In any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony enumerated in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1, and for all charges ancillary thereto, if the attorney for the Commonwealth has given notice as provided in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense, and any matters related thereto. A determination by the juvenile court following a preliminary hearing pursuant to subsection B or C of § 16.1-269.1 to certify a charge to the grand jury shall divest the juvenile court of jurisdiction over the charge and any ancillary charge. In any case in which a transfer hearing is held pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1, if the juvenile court determines to transfer the case, jurisdiction of the juvenile court over the case shall be divested as provided in § 16.1-269.6.\n\t\t\t\tIn all other cases involving delinquent acts, and in cases in which an ancillary charge remains after a violent juvenile felony charge has been dismissed or a violent juvenile felony has been reduced to a lesser offense not constituting a violent juvenile felony, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall not be divested unless there is a transfer pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1.\n\t\t\t\tThe authority of the juvenile court to adjudicate matters involving the custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child shall not be limited to the consideration of petitions filed by a mother, father or legal guardian but shall include petitions filed at any time by any party with a legitimate interest therein. A party with a legitimate interest shall be broadly construed and shall include, but not be limited to, grandparents, step-grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members. A party with a legitimate interest shall not include any person (i) whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either voluntarily or involuntarily, except for purposes of this title, as otherwise provided by this paragraph; (ii) whose interest in the child derives from or through a person whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either voluntarily or involuntarily, or whose interest in the child derives from or through a person pursuant to clause (iii), including, but not limited to, grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members, if the child subsequently has been legally adopted, except where a final order of adoption is entered pursuant to § 63.2-1241; or (iii) who has been convicted of a violation of subsection A of § 18.2-61, § 18.2-63, subsection B of § 18.2-366, or an equivalent offense of another state, the United States, or any foreign jurisdiction, or who has been found by clear and convincing evidence to have engaged in the conduct prohibited by subsection A of § 18.2-61, § 18.2-63, or subsection B of § 18.2-366, whether or not the person has been charged with or convicted of the alleged violation, when the child who is the subject of the petition was conceived as a result of such violation or conduct. The authority of the juvenile court to consider a petition involving the custody of a child shall not be proscribed or limited where the child has previously been awarded to the custody of a local board of social services. For purposes of this title, a party with a legitimate interest shall also include a parent whose rights previously had been terminated, provided that the child whose custody or visitation is at issue (a) is at least 14 years of age; (b) has had a permanency goal previously achieved by adoption; (c) has had his adoptive parents die or, pursuant to § 16.1-277.02, each of such child’s adoptive parents has permanently been relieved of custody of such child and each adoptive parent has had his parental rights terminated; and (d) is in the custody of a local board of social services, and provided that the parent whose rights had previously been terminated has (1) complied with the terms of any written post-adoption contact and communication agreement entered into pursuant to Article 1.1 (§ 63.2-1220.2 et seq.) of Chapter 12 of Title 63.2 and (2) maintained a positive, continuous relationship with the child since termination.A1\n\nMaking specific findings of fact required by state or federal law to enable a child to apply for or receive a state or federal benefit. For the purposes of this subsection only, when the court has obtained jurisdiction over the case of any child, the court may continue to exercise its jurisdiction until such person reaches 21 years of age, for the purpose of entering findings of fact or amending past orders, to include findings of fact necessary for the person to petition the federal government for status as a special immigrant juvenile, as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(27)(J).B\n\nThe admission of minors for inpatient treatment in a mental health facility in accordance with the provisions of Article 16 (§ 16.1-335 et seq.) and the involuntary admission of a person with mental illness or judicial certification of eligibility for admission to a training center for persons with intellectual disability in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 (§ 37.2-800 et seq.) of Title 37.2. Jurisdiction of the involuntary admission and certification of adults shall be concurrent with the general district court.C\n\nExcept as provided in subsections D and H, judicial consent to such activities as may require parental consent may be given for a child who has been separated from his parents, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis and is in the custody of the court when such consent is required by law.D\n\nJudicial consent for emergency surgical or medical treatment for a child who is neither married nor has ever been married, when the consent of his parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis is unobtainable because such parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis (i) is not a resident of the Commonwealth, (ii) has his whereabouts unknown, (iii) cannot be consulted with promptness, reasonable under the circumstances, or (iv) fails to give such consent or provide such treatment when requested by the judge to do so.E\n\nAny person charged with deserting, abandoning or failing to provide support for any person in violation of law.F\n\nAny parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis of a child:1\n\nWho has been abused or neglected;2\n\nWho is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or is otherwise before the court pursuant to subdivision A 4; or3\n\nWho has been adjudicated in need of services, in need of supervision, or delinquent, if the court finds that such person has by overt act or omission induced, caused, encouraged or contributed to the conduct of the child complained of in the petition.G\n\nPetitions filed by or on behalf of a child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis for the purpose of obtaining treatment, rehabilitation or other services that are required by law to be provided for that child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis. Jurisdiction in such cases shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of that of courts having equity jurisdiction as provided in § 16.1-244.H\n\nJudicial consent to apply for a work permit for a child when such child is separated from his parents, legal guardian or other person standing in loco parentis.I\n\nThe prosecution and punishment of persons charged with ill-treatment, abuse, abandonment or neglect of children or with any violation of law that causes or tends to cause a child to come within the purview of this law, or with any other offense against the person of a child. In prosecution for felonies over which the court has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause.J\n\nAll offenses in which one family or household member is charged with an offense in which another family or household member is the victim and all offenses under § 18.2-49.1.\n\t\t\tIn prosecution for felonies over which the court has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause. Any objection based on jurisdiction under this subsection shall be made before a jury is impaneled and sworn in a jury trial or, in a nonjury trial, before the earlier of when the court begins to hear or receive evidence or the first witness is sworn, or it shall be conclusively waived for all purposes. Any such objection shall not affect or be grounds for challenging directly or collaterally the jurisdiction of the court in which the case is tried.K\n\nPetitions filed by a natural parent, whose parental rights to a child have been voluntarily relinquished pursuant to a court proceeding, to seek a reversal of the court order terminating such parental rights. No such petition shall be accepted, however, after the child has been placed in the home of adoptive parents.L\n\nAny person who seeks spousal support after having separated from his spouse. A decision under this subdivision shall not be res judicata in any subsequent action for spousal support in a circuit court. A circuit court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction in all causes of action under this subdivision.M\n\nPetitions filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 16.1-253.1, 16.1-253.4, or 16.1-279.1, and all petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 19.2-152.8, 19.2-152.9, or 19.2-152.10 if either the alleged victim or the respondent is a juvenile.N\n\nAny person who escapes or remains away without proper authority from a residential care facility in which he had been placed by the court or as a result of his commitment to the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice.O\n\nPetitions for emancipation of a minor pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.).P\n\nPetitions for enforcement of administrative support orders entered pursuant to Chapter 19 (§ 63.2-1900 et seq.) of Title 63.2, or by another state in the same manner as if the orders were entered by a juvenile and domestic relations district court upon the filing of a certified copy of such order in the juvenile and domestic relations district court.Q\n\nPetitions for a determination of parentage pursuant to Chapter 3.1 (§ 20-49.1 et seq.) of Title 20. A circuit court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction to the extent provided for in § 20-49.2.R\n\n[Repealed.]S\n\nPetitions filed by school boards against parents pursuant to §§ 16.1-241.2 and 22.1-279.3.T\n\nPetitions to enforce any request for information or subpoena that is not complied with or to review any refusal to issue a subpoena in an administrative appeal regarding child abuse and neglect pursuant to § 63.2-1526.U\n\nPetitions filed in connection with parental placement adoption consent hearings pursuant to § 63.2-1233. Such proceedings shall be advanced on the docket so as to be heard by the court within 10 days of filing of the petition, or as soon thereafter as practicable so as to provide the earliest possible disposition.V\n\nPetitions filed for the purpose of obtaining the court’s assistance with the execution of consent to an adoption when the consent to an adoption is executed pursuant to the laws of another state and the laws of that state provide for the execution of consent to an adoption in the court of the Commonwealth.W\n\nPetitions filed by a juvenile seeking judicial authorization for a physician to perform an abortion if a minor elects not to seek consent of an authorized person.\n\t\t\tAfter a hearing, a judge shall issue an order authorizing a physician to perform an abortion, without the consent of any authorized person, if he finds that (i) the minor is mature enough and well enough informed to make her abortion decision, in consultation with her physician, independent of the wishes of any authorized person, or (ii) the minor is not mature enough or well enough informed to make such decision, but the desired abortion would be in her best interest.\n\t\t\tIf the judge authorizes an abortion based on the best interests of the minor, such order shall expressly state that such authorization is subject to the physician or his agent giving notice of intent to perform the abortion; however, no such notice shall be required if the judge finds that such notice would not be in the best interest of the minor. In determining whether notice is in the best interest of the minor, the judge shall consider the totality of the circumstances; however, he shall find that notice is not in the best interest of the minor if he finds that (a) one or more authorized persons with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides is abusive or neglectful and (b) every other authorized person, if any, is either abusive or neglectful or has refused to accept responsibility as parent, legal guardian, custodian or person standing in loco parentis.\n\t\t\tThe minor may participate in the court proceedings on her own behalf, and the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor. The court shall advise the minor that she has a right to counsel and shall, upon her request, appoint counsel for her.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of this subsection shall govern proceedings relating to consent for a minor’s abortion. Court proceedings under this subsection and records of such proceedings shall be confidential. Such proceedings shall be given precedence over other pending matters so that the court may reach a decision promptly and without delay in order to serve the best interests of the minor. Court proceedings under this subsection shall be heard and decided as soon as practicable but in no event later than four days after the petition is filed.\n\t\t\tAn expedited confidential appeal to the circuit court shall be available to any minor for whom the court denies an order authorizing an abortion without consent or without notice. Any such appeal shall be heard and decided no later than five days after the appeal is filed. The time periods required by this subsection shall be subject to subsection B of § 1-210. An order authorizing an abortion without consent or without notice shall not be subject to appeal.\n\t\t\tNo filing fees shall be required of the minor at trial or upon appeal.\n\t\t\tIf either the original court or the circuit court fails to act within the time periods required by this subsection, the court before which the proceeding is pending shall immediately authorize a physician to perform the abortion without consent of or notice to an authorized person.\n\t\t\tNothing contained in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a physician to perform an abortion on a minor in circumstances or in a manner that would be unlawful if performed on an adult woman.\n\t\t\tA physician shall not knowingly perform an abortion upon an unemancipated minor unless consent has been obtained or the minor delivers to the physician a court order entered pursuant to this section and the physician or his agent provides such notice as such order may require. However, neither consent nor judicial authorization nor notice shall be required if the minor declares that she is abused or neglected and the attending physician has reason to suspect that the minor may be an abused or neglected child as defined in § 63.2-100 and reports the suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with § 63.2-1509; or if there is a medical emergency, in which case the attending physician shall certify the facts justifying the exception in the minor’s medical record.\n\t\t\tFor purposes of this subsection:\n\t\t\t“Authorization” means the minor has delivered to the physician a notarized, written statement signed by an authorized person that the authorized person knows of the minor’s intent to have an abortion and consents to such abortion being performed on the minor.\n\t\t\t“Authorized person” means (i) a parent or duly appointed legal guardian or custodian of the minor or (ii) a person standing in loco parentis, including, but not limited to, a grandparent or adult sibling with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides and who has care and control of the minor. Any person who knows he is not an authorized person and who knowingly and willfully signs an authorization statement consenting to an abortion for a minor is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.\n\t\t\t“Consent” means that (i) the physician has given notice of intent to perform the abortion and has received authorization from an authorized person, or (ii) at least one authorized person is present with the minor seeking the abortion and provides written authorization to the physician, which shall be witnessed by the physician or an agent thereof. In either case, the written authorization shall be incorporated into the minor’s medical record and maintained as a part thereof.\n\t\t\t“Medical emergency” means any condition which, on the basis of the physician’s good faith clinical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of the pregnant minor as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.\n\t\t\t“Notice of intent to perform the abortion” means that (i) the physician or his agent has given actual notice of his intention to perform such abortion to an authorized person, either in person or by telephone, at least 24 hours previous to the performance of the abortion or (ii) the physician or his agent, after a reasonable effort to notify an authorized person, has mailed notice to an authorized person by certified mail, addressed to such person at his usual place of abode, with return receipt requested, at least 72 hours prior to the performance of the abortion.\n\t\t\t“Perform an abortion” means to interrupt or terminate a pregnancy by any surgical or nonsurgical procedure or to induce a miscarriage as provided in § 18.2-72, 18.2-73, or 18.2-74.\n\t\t\t“Unemancipated minor” means a minor who has not been emancipated by (i) entry into a valid marriage entered into prior to July 1, 2024, or lawfully entered into in another state or country prior to being domiciled in the Commonwealth, even though the marriage may have been terminated by dissolution; (ii) active duty with any of the Armed Forces of the United States; (iii) willingly living separate and apart from his or her parents or guardian, with the consent or acquiescence of the parents or guardian; or (iv) entry of an order of emancipation pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.).X\n\nPetitions filed pursuant to Article 17 (§ 16.1-349 et seq.) relating to standby guardians for minor children.Y\n\nPetitions involving minors filed pursuant to § 32.1-45.1 relating to obtaining a blood specimen or test results.Z\n\nPetitions filed pursuant to § 16.1-283.3 for review of voluntary agreements for continuation of services and support for persons who meet the eligibility criteria for the Fostering Futures program set forth in § 63.2-919.\n\t\t\tThe ages specified in this law refer to the age of the child at the time of the acts complained of in the petition.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, no fees shall be charged by a sheriff for the service of any process in a proceeding pursuant to subdivision A 3, except as provided in subdivision A 6 of § 17.1-272, or subsection B, D, M, or R.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding the provisions of § 18.2-71, any physician who performs an abortion in violation of subsection W shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.\n\t\t\tUpon certification by the juvenile and domestic relations district court of any felony charge and ancillary misdemeanor charge committed by an adult or when an appeal of a conviction or adjudication of delinquency of an offense in the juvenile and domestic relations district court is noted, jurisdiction as to such charges shall vest in the circuit court, unless such case is reopened pursuant to § 16.1-133.1; a final judgment, order, or decree is modified, vacated, or suspended pursuant to Supreme Court of Virginia Rule 1:1; or the appeal has been withdrawn in the juvenile and domestic relations district court within 10 days pursuant to § 16.1-133.","order_by":null,"text":{"0":{"id":257034,"text":"The judges of the juvenile and domestic relations district court elected or appointed under this law shall be conservators of the peace within the corporate limits of the cities and the boundaries of the counties for which they are respectively chosen and within one mile beyond the limits of such cities and counties. Except as hereinafter provided, each juvenile and domestic relations district court shall have, within the limits of the territory for which it is created, exclusive original jurisdiction, and within one mile beyond the limits of said city or county, concurrent jurisdiction with the juvenile court or courts of the adjoining city or county, over all cases, matters and proceedings involving:","type":"section","prefixes":[""],"prefix":"","entire_prefix":"","prefix_anchor":"","level":1,"next_prefix":"A"},"1":{"id":257035,"text":"The custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child:","type":"section","prefixes":["A"],"prefix":"A","entire_prefix":"A","prefix_anchor":"A","level":1,"prior_prefix":"","next_prefix":"A1"},"2":{"id":257036,"text":"Who is alleged to be abused, neglected, in need of services, in need of supervision, a status offender, or delinquent except where the jurisdiction of the juvenile court has been terminated or divested;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"A1","prefix_anchor":"A1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A","next_prefix":"A2"},"3":{"id":257037,"text":"Who is abandoned by his parent or other custodian or who by reason of the absence or physical or mental incapacity of his parents is without parental care and guardianship;\n\t\t\t\t2a. Who is at risk of being abused or neglected by a parent or custodian who has been adjudicated as having abused or neglected another child in the care of the parent or custodian;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"A2","prefix_anchor":"A2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A1","next_prefix":"A3"},"4":{"id":257038,"text":"Whose custody, visitation or support is a subject of controversy or requires determination. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts having equity jurisdiction, except as provided in § 16.1-244;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","3"],"prefix":"3","entire_prefix":"A3","prefix_anchor":"A3","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A2","next_prefix":"A4"},"5":{"id":257039,"text":"Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or whose parent or parents for good cause desire to be relieved of his care and custody;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","4"],"prefix":"4","entire_prefix":"A4","prefix_anchor":"A4","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A3","next_prefix":"A5"},"6":{"id":257040,"text":"Where the termination of residual parental rights and responsibilities is sought. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts having equity jurisdiction, as provided in § 16.1-244;","type":"section","prefixes":["A","5"],"prefix":"5","entire_prefix":"A5","prefix_anchor":"A5","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A4","next_prefix":"A6"},"7":{"id":257041,"text":"Who is charged with a traffic infraction as defined in § 46.2-100; or","type":"section","prefixes":["A","6"],"prefix":"6","entire_prefix":"A6","prefix_anchor":"A6","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A5","next_prefix":"A7"},"8":{"id":257042,"text":"Who is alleged to have refused to take a blood test in violation of § 18.2-268.2.\n\t\t\t\tIn any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony enumerated in subsection B of § 16.1-269.1, and for any charges ancillary thereto, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense, and any matters related thereto. In any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony enumerated in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1, and for all charges ancillary thereto, if the attorney for the Commonwealth has given notice as provided in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense, and any matters related thereto. A determination by the juvenile court following a preliminary hearing pursuant to subsection B or C of § 16.1-269.1 to certify a charge to the grand jury shall divest the juvenile court of jurisdiction over the charge and any ancillary charge. In any case in which a transfer hearing is held pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1, if the juvenile court determines to transfer the case, jurisdiction of the juvenile court over the case shall be divested as provided in § 16.1-269.6.\n\t\t\t\tIn all other cases involving delinquent acts, and in cases in which an ancillary charge remains after a violent juvenile felony charge has been dismissed or a violent juvenile felony has been reduced to a lesser offense not constituting a violent juvenile felony, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall not be divested unless there is a transfer pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1.\n\t\t\t\tThe authority of the juvenile court to adjudicate matters involving the custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child shall not be limited to the consideration of petitions filed by a mother, father or legal guardian but shall include petitions filed at any time by any party with a legitimate interest therein. A party with a legitimate interest shall be broadly construed and shall include, but not be limited to, grandparents, step-grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members. A party with a legitimate interest shall not include any person (i) whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either voluntarily or involuntarily, except for purposes of this title, as otherwise provided by this paragraph; (ii) whose interest in the child derives from or through a person whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either voluntarily or involuntarily, or whose interest in the child derives from or through a person pursuant to clause (iii), including, but not limited to, grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members, if the child subsequently has been legally adopted, except where a final order of adoption is entered pursuant to § 63.2-1241; or (iii) who has been convicted of a violation of subsection A of § 18.2-61, § 18.2-63, subsection B of § 18.2-366, or an equivalent offense of another state, the United States, or any foreign jurisdiction, or who has been found by clear and convincing evidence to have engaged in the conduct prohibited by subsection A of § 18.2-61, § 18.2-63, or subsection B of § 18.2-366, whether or not the person has been charged with or convicted of the alleged violation, when the child who is the subject of the petition was conceived as a result of such violation or conduct. The authority of the juvenile court to consider a petition involving the custody of a child shall not be proscribed or limited where the child has previously been awarded to the custody of a local board of social services. For purposes of this title, a party with a legitimate interest shall also include a parent whose rights previously had been terminated, provided that the child whose custody or visitation is at issue (a) is at least 14 years of age; (b) has had a permanency goal previously achieved by adoption; (c) has had his adoptive parents die or, pursuant to § 16.1-277.02, each of such child’s adoptive parents has permanently been relieved of custody of such child and each adoptive parent has had his parental rights terminated; and (d) is in the custody of a local board of social services, and provided that the parent whose rights had previously been terminated has (1) complied with the terms of any written post-adoption contact and communication agreement entered into pursuant to Article 1.1 (§ 63.2-1220.2 et seq.) of Chapter 12 of Title 63.2 and (2) maintained a positive, continuous relationship with the child since termination.","type":"section","prefixes":["A","7"],"prefix":"7","entire_prefix":"A7","prefix_anchor":"A7","level":2,"prior_prefix":"A6","next_prefix":"A1"},"9":{"id":257043,"text":"Making specific findings of fact required by state or federal law to enable a child to apply for or receive a state or federal benefit. For the purposes of this subsection only, when the court has obtained jurisdiction over the case of any child, the court may continue to exercise its jurisdiction until such person reaches 21 years of age, for the purpose of entering findings of fact or amending past orders, to include findings of fact necessary for the person to petition the federal government for status as a special immigrant juvenile, as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(27)(J).","type":"section","prefixes":["A1"],"prefix":"A1","entire_prefix":"A1","prefix_anchor":"A1","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A7","next_prefix":"B"},"10":{"id":257044,"text":"The admission of minors for inpatient treatment in a mental health facility in accordance with the provisions of Article 16 (§ 16.1-335 et seq.) and the involuntary admission of a person with mental illness or judicial certification of eligibility for admission to a training center for persons with intellectual disability in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 (§ 37.2-800 et seq.) of Title 37.2. Jurisdiction of the involuntary admission and certification of adults shall be concurrent with the general district court.","type":"section","prefixes":["B"],"prefix":"B","entire_prefix":"B","prefix_anchor":"B","level":1,"prior_prefix":"A1","next_prefix":"C"},"11":{"id":257045,"text":"Except as provided in subsections D and H, judicial consent to such activities as may require parental consent may be given for a child who has been separated from his parents, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis and is in the custody of the court when such consent is required by law.","type":"section","prefixes":["C"],"prefix":"C","entire_prefix":"C","prefix_anchor":"C","level":1,"prior_prefix":"B","next_prefix":"D"},"12":{"id":257046,"text":"Judicial consent for emergency surgical or medical treatment for a child who is neither married nor has ever been married, when the consent of his parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis is unobtainable because such parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis (i) is not a resident of the Commonwealth, (ii) has his whereabouts unknown, (iii) cannot be consulted with promptness, reasonable under the circumstances, or (iv) fails to give such consent or provide such treatment when requested by the judge to do so.","type":"section","prefixes":["D"],"prefix":"D","entire_prefix":"D","prefix_anchor":"D","level":1,"prior_prefix":"C","next_prefix":"E"},"13":{"id":257047,"text":"Any person charged with deserting, abandoning or failing to provide support for any person in violation of law.","type":"section","prefixes":["E"],"prefix":"E","entire_prefix":"E","prefix_anchor":"E","level":1,"prior_prefix":"D","next_prefix":"F"},"14":{"id":257048,"text":"Any parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis of a child:","type":"section","prefixes":["F"],"prefix":"F","entire_prefix":"F","prefix_anchor":"F","level":1,"prior_prefix":"E","next_prefix":"F1"},"15":{"id":257049,"text":"Who has been abused or neglected;","type":"section","prefixes":["F","1"],"prefix":"1","entire_prefix":"F1","prefix_anchor":"F1","level":2,"prior_prefix":"F","next_prefix":"F2"},"16":{"id":257050,"text":"Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or is otherwise before the court pursuant to subdivision A 4; or","type":"section","prefixes":["F","2"],"prefix":"2","entire_prefix":"F2","prefix_anchor":"F2","level":2,"prior_prefix":"F1","next_prefix":"F3"},"17":{"id":257051,"text":"Who has been adjudicated in need of services, in need of supervision, or delinquent, if the court finds that such person has by overt act or omission induced, caused, encouraged or contributed to the conduct of the child complained of in the petition.","type":"section","prefixes":["F","3"],"prefix":"3","entire_prefix":"F3","prefix_anchor":"F3","level":2,"prior_prefix":"F2","next_prefix":"G"},"18":{"id":257052,"text":"Petitions filed by or on behalf of a child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis for the purpose of obtaining treatment, rehabilitation or other services that are required by law to be provided for that child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis. Jurisdiction in such cases shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of that of courts having equity jurisdiction as provided in § 16.1-244.","type":"section","prefixes":["G"],"prefix":"G","entire_prefix":"G","prefix_anchor":"G","level":1,"prior_prefix":"F3","next_prefix":"H"},"19":{"id":257053,"text":"Judicial consent to apply for a work permit for a child when such child is separated from his parents, legal guardian or other person standing in loco parentis.","type":"section","prefixes":["H"],"prefix":"H","entire_prefix":"H","prefix_anchor":"H","level":1,"prior_prefix":"G","next_prefix":"I"},"20":{"id":257054,"text":"The prosecution and punishment of persons charged with ill-treatment, abuse, abandonment or neglect of children or with any violation of law that causes or tends to cause a child to come within the purview of this law, or with any other offense against the person of a child. In prosecution for felonies over which the court has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause.","type":"section","prefixes":["I"],"prefix":"I","entire_prefix":"I","prefix_anchor":"I","level":1,"prior_prefix":"H","next_prefix":"J"},"21":{"id":257055,"text":"All offenses in which one family or household member is charged with an offense in which another family or household member is the victim and all offenses under § 18.2-49.1.\n\t\t\tIn prosecution for felonies over which the court has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause. Any objection based on jurisdiction under this subsection shall be made before a jury is impaneled and sworn in a jury trial or, in a nonjury trial, before the earlier of when the court begins to hear or receive evidence or the first witness is sworn, or it shall be conclusively waived for all purposes. Any such objection shall not affect or be grounds for challenging directly or collaterally the jurisdiction of the court in which the case is tried.","type":"section","prefixes":["J"],"prefix":"J","entire_prefix":"J","prefix_anchor":"J","level":1,"prior_prefix":"I","next_prefix":"K"},"22":{"id":257056,"text":"Petitions filed by a natural parent, whose parental rights to a child have been voluntarily relinquished pursuant to a court proceeding, to seek a reversal of the court order terminating such parental rights. No such petition shall be accepted, however, after the child has been placed in the home of adoptive parents.","type":"section","prefixes":["K"],"prefix":"K","entire_prefix":"K","prefix_anchor":"K","level":1,"prior_prefix":"J","next_prefix":"L"},"23":{"id":257057,"text":"Any person who seeks spousal support after having separated from his spouse. A decision under this subdivision shall not be res judicata in any subsequent action for spousal support in a circuit court. A circuit court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction in all causes of action under this subdivision.","type":"section","prefixes":["L"],"prefix":"L","entire_prefix":"L","prefix_anchor":"L","level":1,"prior_prefix":"K","next_prefix":"M"},"24":{"id":257058,"text":"Petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 16.1-253.1, 16.1-253.4, or 16.1-279.1, and all petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 19.2-152.8, 19.2-152.9, or 19.2-152.10 if either the alleged victim or the respondent is a juvenile.","type":"section","prefixes":["M"],"prefix":"M","entire_prefix":"M","prefix_anchor":"M","level":1,"prior_prefix":"L","next_prefix":"N"},"25":{"id":257059,"text":"Any person who escapes or remains away without proper authority from a residential care facility in which he had been placed by the court or as a result of his commitment to the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice.","type":"section","prefixes":["N"],"prefix":"N","entire_prefix":"N","prefix_anchor":"N","level":1,"prior_prefix":"M","next_prefix":"O"},"26":{"id":257060,"text":"Petitions for emancipation of a minor pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.).","type":"section","prefixes":["O"],"prefix":"O","entire_prefix":"O","prefix_anchor":"O","level":1,"prior_prefix":"N","next_prefix":"P"},"27":{"id":257061,"text":"Petitions for enforcement of administrative support orders entered pursuant to Chapter 19 (§ 63.2-1900 et seq.) of Title 63.2, or by another state in the same manner as if the orders were entered by a juvenile and domestic relations district court upon the filing of a certified copy of such order in the juvenile and domestic relations district court.","type":"section","prefixes":["P"],"prefix":"P","entire_prefix":"P","prefix_anchor":"P","level":1,"prior_prefix":"O","next_prefix":"Q"},"28":{"id":257062,"text":"Petitions for a determination of parentage pursuant to Chapter 3.1 (§ 20-49.1 et seq.) of Title 20. A circuit court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction to the extent provided for in § 20-49.2.","type":"section","prefixes":["Q"],"prefix":"Q","entire_prefix":"Q","prefix_anchor":"Q","level":1,"prior_prefix":"P","next_prefix":"R"},"29":{"id":257063,"text":"[Repealed.]","type":"section","prefixes":["R"],"prefix":"R","entire_prefix":"R","prefix_anchor":"R","level":1,"prior_prefix":"Q","next_prefix":"S"},"30":{"id":257064,"text":"Petitions filed by school boards against parents pursuant to §§ 16.1-241.2 and 22.1-279.3.","type":"section","prefixes":["S"],"prefix":"S","entire_prefix":"S","prefix_anchor":"S","level":1,"prior_prefix":"R","next_prefix":"T"},"31":{"id":257065,"text":"Petitions to enforce any request for information or subpoena that is not complied with or to review any refusal to issue a subpoena in an administrative appeal regarding child abuse and neglect pursuant to § 63.2-1526.","type":"section","prefixes":["T"],"prefix":"T","entire_prefix":"T","prefix_anchor":"T","level":1,"prior_prefix":"S","next_prefix":"U"},"32":{"id":257066,"text":"Petitions filed in connection with parental placement adoption consent hearings pursuant to § 63.2-1233. Such proceedings shall be advanced on the docket so as to be heard by the court within 10 days of filing of the petition, or as soon thereafter as practicable so as to provide the earliest possible disposition.","type":"section","prefixes":["U"],"prefix":"U","entire_prefix":"U","prefix_anchor":"U","level":1,"prior_prefix":"T","next_prefix":"V"},"33":{"id":257067,"text":"Petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining the court’s assistance with the execution of consent to an adoption when the consent to an adoption is executed pursuant to the laws of another state and the laws of that state provide for the execution of consent to an adoption in the court of the Commonwealth.","type":"section","prefixes":["V"],"prefix":"V","entire_prefix":"V","prefix_anchor":"V","level":1,"prior_prefix":"U","next_prefix":"W"},"34":{"id":257068,"text":"Petitions filed by a juvenile seeking judicial authorization for a physician to perform an abortion if a minor elects not to seek consent of an authorized person.\n\t\t\tAfter a hearing, a judge shall issue an order authorizing a physician to perform an abortion, without the consent of any authorized person, if he finds that (i) the minor is mature enough and well enough informed to make her abortion decision, in consultation with her physician, independent of the wishes of any authorized person, or (ii) the minor is not mature enough or well enough informed to make such decision, but the desired abortion would be in her best interest.\n\t\t\tIf the judge authorizes an abortion based on the best interests of the minor, such order shall expressly state that such authorization is subject to the physician or his agent giving notice of intent to perform the abortion; however, no such notice shall be required if the judge finds that such notice would not be in the best interest of the minor. In determining whether notice is in the best interest of the minor, the judge shall consider the totality of the circumstances; however, he shall find that notice is not in the best interest of the minor if he finds that (a) one or more authorized persons with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides is abusive or neglectful and (b) every other authorized person, if any, is either abusive or neglectful or has refused to accept responsibility as parent, legal guardian, custodian or person standing in loco parentis.\n\t\t\tThe minor may participate in the court proceedings on her own behalf, and the court may appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor. The court shall advise the minor that she has a right to counsel and shall, upon her request, appoint counsel for her.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of this subsection shall govern proceedings relating to consent for a minor’s abortion. Court proceedings under this subsection and records of such proceedings shall be confidential. Such proceedings shall be given precedence over other pending matters so that the court may reach a decision promptly and without delay in order to serve the best interests of the minor. Court proceedings under this subsection shall be heard and decided as soon as practicable but in no event later than four days after the petition is filed.\n\t\t\tAn expedited confidential appeal to the circuit court shall be available to any minor for whom the court denies an order authorizing an abortion without consent or without notice. Any such appeal shall be heard and decided no later than five days after the appeal is filed. The time periods required by this subsection shall be subject to subsection B of § 1-210. An order authorizing an abortion without consent or without notice shall not be subject to appeal.\n\t\t\tNo filing fees shall be required of the minor at trial or upon appeal.\n\t\t\tIf either the original court or the circuit court fails to act within the time periods required by this subsection, the court before which the proceeding is pending shall immediately authorize a physician to perform the abortion without consent of or notice to an authorized person.\n\t\t\tNothing contained in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a physician to perform an abortion on a minor in circumstances or in a manner that would be unlawful if performed on an adult woman.\n\t\t\tA physician shall not knowingly perform an abortion upon an unemancipated minor unless consent has been obtained or the minor delivers to the physician a court order entered pursuant to this section and the physician or his agent provides such notice as such order may require. However, neither consent nor judicial authorization nor notice shall be required if the minor declares that she is abused or neglected and the attending physician has reason to suspect that the minor may be an abused or neglected child as defined in § 63.2-100 and reports the suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with § 63.2-1509; or if there is a medical emergency, in which case the attending physician shall certify the facts justifying the exception in the minor’s medical record.\n\t\t\tFor purposes of this subsection:\n\t\t\t“Authorization” means the minor has delivered to the physician a notarized, written statement signed by an authorized person that the authorized person knows of the minor’s intent to have an abortion and consents to such abortion being performed on the minor.\n\t\t\t“Authorized person” means (i) a parent or duly appointed legal guardian or custodian of the minor or (ii) a person standing in loco parentis, including, but not limited to, a grandparent or adult sibling with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides and who has care and control of the minor. Any person who knows he is not an authorized person and who knowingly and willfully signs an authorization statement consenting to an abortion for a minor is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.\n\t\t\t“Consent” means that (i) the physician has given notice of intent to perform the abortion and has received authorization from an authorized person, or (ii) at least one authorized person is present with the minor seeking the abortion and provides written authorization to the physician, which shall be witnessed by the physician or an agent thereof. In either case, the written authorization shall be incorporated into the minor’s medical record and maintained as a part thereof.\n\t\t\t“Medical emergency” means any condition which, on the basis of the physician’s good faith clinical judgment, so complicates the medical condition of the pregnant minor as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.\n\t\t\t“Notice of intent to perform the abortion” means that (i) the physician or his agent has given actual notice of his intention to perform such abortion to an authorized person, either in person or by telephone, at least 24 hours previous to the performance of the abortion or (ii) the physician or his agent, after a reasonable effort to notify an authorized person, has mailed notice to an authorized person by certified mail, addressed to such person at his usual place of abode, with return receipt requested, at least 72 hours prior to the performance of the abortion.\n\t\t\t“Perform an abortion” means to interrupt or terminate a pregnancy by any surgical or nonsurgical procedure or to induce a miscarriage as provided in § 18.2-72, 18.2-73, or 18.2-74.\n\t\t\t“Unemancipated minor” means a minor who has not been emancipated by (i) entry into a valid marriage entered into prior to July 1, 2024, or lawfully entered into in another state or country prior to being domiciled in the Commonwealth, even though the marriage may have been terminated by dissolution; (ii) active duty with any of the Armed Forces of the United States; (iii) willingly living separate and apart from his or her parents or guardian, with the consent or acquiescence of the parents or guardian; or (iv) entry of an order of emancipation pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.).","type":"section","prefixes":["W"],"prefix":"W","entire_prefix":"W","prefix_anchor":"W","level":1,"prior_prefix":"V","next_prefix":"X"},"35":{"id":257069,"text":"Petitions filed pursuant to Article 17 (§ 16.1-349 et seq.) relating to standby guardians for minor children.","type":"section","prefixes":["X"],"prefix":"X","entire_prefix":"X","prefix_anchor":"X","level":1,"prior_prefix":"W","next_prefix":"Y"},"36":{"id":257070,"text":"Petitions involving minors filed pursuant to § 32.1-45.1 relating to obtaining a blood specimen or test results.","type":"section","prefixes":["Y"],"prefix":"Y","entire_prefix":"Y","prefix_anchor":"Y","level":1,"prior_prefix":"X","next_prefix":"Z"},"37":{"id":257071,"text":"Petitions filed pursuant to § 16.1-283.3 for review of voluntary agreements for continuation of services and support for persons who meet the eligibility criteria for the Fostering Futures program set forth in § 63.2-919.\n\t\t\tThe ages specified in this law refer to the age of the child at the time of the acts complained of in the petition.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, no fees shall be charged by a sheriff for the service of any process in a proceeding pursuant to subdivision A 3, except as provided in subdivision A 6 of § 17.1-272, or subsection B, D, M, or R.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding the provisions of § 18.2-71, any physician who performs an abortion in violation of subsection W shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.\n\t\t\tUpon certification by the juvenile and domestic relations district court of any felony charge and ancillary misdemeanor charge committed by an adult or when an appeal of a conviction or adjudication of delinquency of an offense in the juvenile and domestic relations district court is noted, jurisdiction as to such charges shall vest in the circuit court, unless such case is reopened pursuant to § 16.1-133.1; a final judgment, order, or decree is modified, vacated, or suspended pursuant to Supreme Court of Virginia Rule 1:1; or the appeal has been withdrawn in the juvenile and domestic relations district court within 10 days pursuant to § 16.1-133.","type":"section","prefixes":["Z"],"prefix":"Z","entire_prefix":"Z","prefix_anchor":"Z","level":1,"prior_prefix":"Y"}},"ancestry":[{"id":13723,"edition_id":1,"name":"Jurisdiction and Venue","identifier":"3","label":"article","depth":3,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12701,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:45:40","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:45:40","permalink":{"id":161481,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":13723,"identifier":"3","token":"16.1\/11\/3","url":"\/16.1\/11\/3\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12701,"edition_id":1,"name":"Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts","identifier":"11","label":"chapter","depth":2,"order_by":1,"parent_id":12700,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","permalink":{"id":160945,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12701,"identifier":"11","token":"16.1\/11","url":"\/16.1\/11\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}},{"id":12700,"edition_id":1,"name":"Courts Not of Record","identifier":"16.1","label":"title","depth":1,"order_by":1,"parent_id":null,"metadata":{},"date_created":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","date_modified":"2026-06-26 03:43:49","permalink":{"id":160919,"object_type":"structure","relational_id":12700,"identifier":"16.1","token":"16.1","url":"\/16.1\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1}}],"structure_contents":[{"id":71312,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241","catch_line":"Jurisdiction; consent for abortion","url":"\/16.1-241\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241","metadata":false},{"id":56537,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241.1","catch_line":"Repealed","url":"\/16.1-241.1\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241.1","metadata":false},{"id":64854,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241.2","catch_line":"Proceedings against certain parents","url":"\/16.1-241.2\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241.2","metadata":false},{"id":69856,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241.3","catch_line":"Newborn children; substance abuse","url":"\/16.1-241.3\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241.3","metadata":false},{"id":54717,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-242","catch_line":"Retention of jurisdiction","url":"\/16.1-242\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-242","metadata":false},{"id":83429,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-242.1","catch_line":"Retention of jurisdiction; appeals involving children in foster care","url":"\/16.1-242.1\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-242.1","metadata":false},{"id":71654,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-243","catch_line":"Venue","url":"\/16.1-243\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-243","metadata":false},{"id":60259,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-244","catch_line":"Concurrent jurisdiction; exceptions","url":"\/16.1-244\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-244","metadata":false},{"id":69416,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-245","catch_line":"Transfer from other courts","url":"\/16.1-245\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-245","metadata":false},{"id":59845,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-245.1","catch_line":"Medical evidence admissible in juvenile and domestic relations district court","url":"\/16.1-245.1\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-245.1","metadata":false},{"id":72275,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-245.2","catch_line":"Evidence of medical reports, statements, or records; testimony of health care provider or custodian of records in juvenile and domestic relations district court; custody, visitation, placement, and support cases","url":"\/16.1-245.2\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-245.2","metadata":false}],"next_section":{"id":56537,"structure_id":13723,"section_number":"16.1-241.1","catch_line":"Repealed","url":"\/16.1-241.1\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241.1","metadata":false},"metadata":false,"official_url":"https:\/\/law.lis.virginia.gov\/vacode\/16.1-241\/","history_text":"

The record of this law\u2019s original creation isn\u2019t available online. It has been modified 42 times. Those modifications are cataloged by \u201cThe Acts of Assembly,\u201d a state publication, by year and chapter. Those modifications that can be read on the General Assembly\u2019s website will be linked accordingly. Those modifications are as follows: in 1956, chapter 555; in 1960, chapter 388; in 1968, chapter 225; in 1970, chapters 232 and 600; in 1973, chapter 440; in 1976, chapters 42 and 324; in 1977, chapters 525 and 559; in 1978, chapter 648; in 1979, chapters 597, 605, and 628; in 1980, chapters 527 and 529; in 1981, chapters 454, 475, 488, 491, 501, 502, and 510; in 1982, chapter 46; in 1983, chapter 280; in 1984, chapters 631, 645, 651, 665, and 669; in 1985, chapter 270; in 1986, chapters 59 and 506; in 1987, chapter 632; in 1988, chapters 797 and 906; in 1989, chapters 368 and 733; in 1990, chapters 704 and 975; in 1991, chapters 511 and 715; in 1992, chapters 585 and 742; in 1994, chapters 575<\/a>, 719<\/a>, 813<\/a>, 859<\/a>, and 949<\/a>; in 1995, chapters 7<\/a>, 665<\/a>, 772<\/a>, 826<\/a>, and 852<\/a>; in 1996, chapters 755<\/a> and 914<\/a>; in 1997, chapters 690<\/a> and 708<\/a>; in 1998, chapter 829<\/a>; in 1999, chapters 697<\/a>, 721<\/a>, and 1028<\/a>; in 2000, chapter 830<\/a>; in 2003, chapters 229<\/a>, 960<\/a>, and 962<\/a>; in 2004, chapter 588<\/a>; in 2005, chapters 716<\/a>, 839<\/a>, and 890<\/a>; in 2007, chapters 284<\/a> and 370<\/a>; in 2008, chapters 164<\/a> and 201<\/a>; in 2010, chapter 402<\/a>; in 2012, chapters 424<\/a>, 476<\/a>, 507<\/a>, and 637<\/a>; in 2014, chapter 653<\/a>; in 2017, chapter 623<\/a>; in 2019, chapters 27<\/a>, 412<\/a>, and 631<\/a>; in 2020, chapters 95<\/a>, 732<\/a>, 987<\/a>, and 988<\/a>; in 2024, chapter 737<\/a>; in 2025, chapters 143<\/a> and 547<\/a>.<\/p>","references":[{"id":71654,"section_number":"16.1-243","catch_line":"Venue","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-243\/"},{"id":68644,"section_number":"16.1-259","catch_line":"Procedure in cases of adults","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-259\/"},{"id":57160,"section_number":"16.1-260","catch_line":"Intake; petition; investigation","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-260\/"},{"id":56254,"section_number":"16.1-263","catch_line":"Summonses","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-263\/"},{"id":78366,"section_number":"16.1-266","catch_line":"Appointment of counsel and guardian ad litem","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-266\/"},{"id":74910,"section_number":"16.1-272.1","catch_line":"Claim of error to be raised within one year","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-272.1\/"},{"id":79168,"section_number":"16.1-276.2","catch_line":"Transportation orders in certain proceedings","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-276.2\/"},{"id":73490,"section_number":"16.1-277.01","catch_line":"Approval of entrustment agreement","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-277.01\/"},{"id":73075,"section_number":"16.1-277.02","catch_line":"(Effective January 1, 2026) Petition for relief of care and custody","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-277.02\/"},{"id":63604,"section_number":"16.1-278.12","catch_line":"When judicial consent in lieu of parental consent authorized","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-278.12\/"},{"id":78408,"section_number":"16.1-278.15","catch_line":"Custody or visitation, child or spousal support generally","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-278.15\/"},{"id":61778,"section_number":"16.1-278.16","catch_line":"Failure to comply with support obligation; payroll deduction; commitment","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-278.16\/"},{"id":63607,"section_number":"16.1-278.17","catch_line":"Pendente lite support","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-278.17\/"},{"id":64090,"section_number":"16.1-302","catch_line":"Dockets, indices, and order books; when hearings and records private; right to public hearing; presence of juvenile in court","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-302\/"},{"id":78870,"section_number":"16.1-309","catch_line":"Penalty","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-309\/"},{"id":77366,"section_number":"16.1-69.48:5","catch_line":"Fees for services of juvenile and domestic relations district court judges and clerks in certain civil cases","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-69.48_5\/"},{"id":84768,"section_number":"20-103","catch_line":"Court may make orders pending suit for divorce, custody or visitation, etc","order_by":null,"url":"\/20-103\/"},{"id":72435,"section_number":"20-107.1","catch_line":"Court may decree as to maintenance and support of spouses","order_by":null,"url":"\/20-107.1\/"},{"id":53938,"section_number":"20-109","catch_line":"Changing maintenance and support for a spouse; effect of stipulations as to maintenance and support for a spouse; cessation upon cohabitation, remarriage, or death; effect of retirement","order_by":null,"url":"\/20-109\/"},{"id":73881,"section_number":"20-109.1","catch_line":"Affirmation, ratification and incorporation by reference in decree of agreement between parties","order_by":null,"url":"\/20-109.1\/"},{"id":81084,"section_number":"63.2-1521","catch_line":"Testimony by child using two-way closed-circuit television","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1521\/"},{"id":66316,"section_number":"63.2-1522","catch_line":"Admission of evidence of sexual acts with children","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1522\/"},{"id":58382,"section_number":"63.2-1523","catch_line":"Use of videotaped statements of complaining witnesses as evidence","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1523\/"},{"id":59524,"section_number":"8.01-407","catch_line":"How summons for witness issued and to whom directed; how witness released from subpoena; prior permission of court to summon certain officials and judges","order_by":null,"url":"\/8.01-407\/"},{"id":83191,"section_number":"9.1-151","catch_line":"Court-Appointed Special Advocate Program; appointment of advisory committee","order_by":null,"url":"\/9.1-151\/"}],"refers_to":[{"id":73076,"section_number":"1-210","catch_line":"Computation of time","order_by":null,"url":"\/1-210\/"},{"id":61066,"section_number":"16.1-133","catch_line":"Withdrawal of appeal","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-133\/"},{"id":56683,"section_number":"16.1-133.1","catch_line":"Reopening case after conviction","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-133.1\/"},{"id":64854,"section_number":"16.1-241.2","catch_line":"Proceedings against certain parents","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-241.2\/"},{"id":60259,"section_number":"16.1-244","catch_line":"Concurrent jurisdiction; exceptions","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-244\/"},{"id":61705,"section_number":"16.1-253.1","catch_line":"Preliminary protective orders in cases of family abuse; confidentiality","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-253.1\/"},{"id":60177,"section_number":"16.1-253.4","catch_line":"Emergency protective orders authorized in certain cases; penalty","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-253.4\/"},{"id":66829,"section_number":"16.1-269.1","catch_line":"Trial in circuit court; preliminary hearing; direct indictment; remand","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-269.1\/"},{"id":72657,"section_number":"16.1-269.6","catch_line":"Circuit court hearing; jury; termination of juvenile court jurisdiction; objections and appeals","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-269.6\/"},{"id":73075,"section_number":"16.1-277.02","catch_line":"(Effective January 1, 2026) Petition for relief of care and custody","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-277.02\/"},{"id":62456,"section_number":"16.1-279.1","catch_line":"Protective order in cases of family abuse","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-279.1\/"},{"id":55428,"section_number":"16.1-283.3","catch_line":"Review of voluntary continuing services and support agreements for former foster youth","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-283.3\/"},{"id":57297,"section_number":"16.1-331","catch_line":"Petition for emancipation","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-331\/"},{"id":74549,"section_number":"16.1-335","catch_line":"Short title","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-335\/"},{"id":70620,"section_number":"16.1-349","catch_line":"Definitions","order_by":null,"url":"\/16.1-349\/"},{"id":85531,"section_number":"17.1-272","catch_line":"Process and service fees generally","order_by":null,"url":"\/17.1-272\/"},{"id":74659,"section_number":"18.2-268.2","catch_line":"Implied consent to post-arrest testing to determine drug or alcohol content of blood","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-268.2\/"},{"id":76153,"section_number":"18.2-366","catch_line":"Sexual intercourse by persons forbidden to marry; incest; penalties","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-366\/"},{"id":86277,"section_number":"18.2-49.1","catch_line":"Violation of court order regarding custody and visitation; penalty","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-49.1\/"},{"id":75662,"section_number":"18.2-61","catch_line":"Rape","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-61\/"},{"id":76651,"section_number":"18.2-63","catch_line":"Carnal knowledge of child between thirteen and fifteen years of age","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-63\/"},{"id":56913,"section_number":"18.2-71","catch_line":"Producing abortion or miscarriage, etc.; penalty","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-71\/"},{"id":76148,"section_number":"18.2-72","catch_line":"When abortion lawful during first trimester of pregnancy","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-72\/"},{"id":67072,"section_number":"18.2-73","catch_line":"When abortion lawful during second trimester of pregnancy","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-73\/"},{"id":72692,"section_number":"18.2-74","catch_line":"When abortion or termination of pregnancy lawful after second trimester of pregnancy","order_by":null,"url":"\/18.2-74\/"},{"id":83461,"section_number":"19.2-152.10","catch_line":"Protective order","order_by":null,"url":"\/19.2-152.10\/"},{"id":67602,"section_number":"19.2-152.8","catch_line":"Emergency protective orders authorized","order_by":null,"url":"\/19.2-152.8\/"},{"id":57556,"section_number":"19.2-152.9","catch_line":"Preliminary protective orders","order_by":null,"url":"\/19.2-152.9\/"},{"id":79167,"section_number":"20-49.1","catch_line":"How parent and child relationship established","order_by":null,"url":"\/20-49.1\/"},{"id":71237,"section_number":"32.1-45.1","catch_line":"Deemed consent to testing and release of test results related to infection with human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis B or C viruses","order_by":null,"url":"\/32.1-45.1\/"},{"id":76779,"section_number":"37.2-800","catch_line":"(Effective July 1, 2026). Applicability of chapter","order_by":null,"url":"\/37.2-800\/"},{"id":82691,"section_number":"46.2-100","catch_line":"Definitions","order_by":null,"url":"\/46.2-100\/"},{"id":72379,"section_number":"63.2-100","catch_line":"Definitions","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-100\/"},{"id":65888,"section_number":"63.2-1220.2","catch_line":"Authority to enter into post-adoption contact and communication agreements","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1220.2\/"},{"id":69788,"section_number":"63.2-1233","catch_line":"Consent to be executed in juvenile and domestic relations district court; exceptions","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1233\/"},{"id":62936,"section_number":"63.2-1241","catch_line":"Adoption of child by spouse of birth or adoptive parent or other person with legitimate interest","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1241\/"},{"id":86098,"section_number":"63.2-1509","catch_line":"Requirement that certain injuries to children be reported by physicians, nurses, teachers, etc.; penalty for failure to report","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1509\/"},{"id":64749,"section_number":"63.2-1817","catch_line":"Acceptance and control over children by licensed child-placing agency, children's residential facility or independent foster home","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1817\/"},{"id":54048,"section_number":"63.2-1900","catch_line":"Definitions","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-1900\/"},{"id":83322,"section_number":"63.2-903","catch_line":"Entrustment agreements; adoption","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-903\/"},{"id":69786,"section_number":"63.2-919","catch_line":"Fostering Futures program; eligibility","order_by":null,"url":"\/63.2-919\/"}],"permalink":{"id":161483,"object_type":"law","relational_id":71312,"identifier":"16.1-241","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241","url":"\/16.1-241\/","edition_id":1,"permalink":0,"preferred":1},"url":"\/16.1-241\/","token":"16.1\/11\/3\/16.1-241","dublin_core":{"Title":"Jurisdiction; consent for abortion","Type":"Text","Format":"text\/html","Identifier":"\u00a7 16.1-241","Relation":"Code of Virginia"},"html":"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

The judges<\/span> of the juvenile and domestic relations district court elected or appointed under this law<\/span> shall be conservators of the peace within the corporate limits of the cities and the boundaries of the counties for which they are respectively chosen and within one mile beyond the limits of such cities and counties. Except as hereinafter provided, each juvenile and domestic relations district court shall have, within the limits of the territory for which it is created, exclusive original jurisdiction<\/span>, and within one mile beyond the limits of said city or county, concurrent jurisdiction with the juvenile court<\/span> or courts<\/span> of the adjoining city or county, over all cases, matters and proceedings involving:<\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A.<\/span> The custody<\/span>, visitation, support, control or disposition<\/span> of a child: <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

1.<\/span> Who is alleged to be abused, neglected, in need of services, in need of supervision, a status offender<\/span>, or delinquent except where the jurisdiction of the juvenile court<\/span> has been terminated or divested; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

2.<\/span> Who is abandoned by his parent or other custodian or who by reason of the absence or physical or mental incapacity<\/span> of his parents is without parental care and guardianship;\n\t\t\t\t2a. Who is at risk of being abused or neglected by a parent or custodian who has been adjudicated as having abused or neglected another child in the care of the parent or custodian; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

3.<\/span> Whose custody<\/span>, visitation or support is a subject of controversy or requires determination. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts<\/span> having equity<\/span> jurisdiction, except as provided in § 16.1-244<\/a>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

4.<\/span> Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903<\/a> or 63.2-1817<\/a> or whose parent or parents for good cause desire to be relieved of his care and custody<\/span>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

5.<\/span> Where the termination of residual parental rights and responsibilities<\/span> is sought. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of courts<\/span> having equity<\/span> jurisdiction, as provided in § 16.1-244<\/a>; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

6.<\/span> Who is charged with a traffic infraction as defined in § 46.2-100<\/a>; or <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

7.<\/span> Who is alleged to have refused to take a blood test in violation of § 18.2-268.2<\/a>.\n\t\t\t\tIn any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony<\/span> enumerated in subsection B of § 16.1-269.1<\/a>, and for any charges ancillary thereto, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court<\/span> shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing<\/span> to determine if there is probable cause<\/span> to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense<\/span>, and any matters related thereto. In any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony<\/span> enumerated in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1<\/a>, and for all charges ancillary thereto, if the attorney for the Commonwealth has given notice as provided in subsection C of § 16.1-269.1<\/a>, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court<\/span> shall be limited to conducting a preliminary hearing<\/span> to determine if there is probable cause<\/span> to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense<\/span>, and any matters related thereto. A determination by the juvenile court<\/span> following a preliminary hearing<\/span> pursuant to subsection B or C of § 16.1-269.1<\/a> to certify a charge to the grand jury<\/span> shall divest the juvenile court<\/span> of jurisdiction over the charge and any ancillary charge<\/span>. In any case in which a transfer hearing is held pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1<\/a>, if the juvenile court<\/span> determines to transfer the case, jurisdiction of the juvenile court<\/span> over the case shall be divested as provided in § 16.1-269.6<\/a>.\n\t\t\t\tIn all other cases involving delinquent acts<\/span>, and in cases in which an ancillary charge<\/span> remains after a violent juvenile felony<\/span> charge has been dismissed or a violent juvenile felony<\/span> has been reduced to a lesser offense<\/span> not constituting a violent juvenile felony<\/span>, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court<\/span> shall not be divested unless there is a transfer pursuant to subsection A of § 16.1-269.1<\/a>.\n\t\t\t\tThe authority of the juvenile court<\/span> to adjudicate<\/span> matters involving the custody<\/span>, visitation, support, control or disposition<\/span> of a child shall not be limited to the consideration of petitions<\/span> filed by a mother, father or legal guardian but shall include petitions<\/span> filed at any time by any party<\/span> with a legitimate interest therein. A party<\/span> with a legitimate interest shall be broadly construed and shall include, but not be limited to, grandparents, step-grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members. A party<\/span> with a legitimate interest shall not include any person (i) whose parental rights have been terminated by court order<\/span>, either voluntarily or involuntarily, except for purposes of this title, as otherwise provided by this paragraph; (ii) whose interest in the child derives from or through a person whose parental rights have been terminated by court order<\/span>, either voluntarily or involuntarily, or whose interest in the child derives from or through a person pursuant to clause (iii), including, but not limited to, grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members, if the child subsequently has been legally adopted, except where a final order<\/span> of adoption is entered pursuant to § 63.2-1241<\/a>; or (iii) who has been convicted of a violation of subsection A of § 18.2-61<\/a>, § 18.2-63<\/a>, subsection B of § 18.2-366<\/a>, or an equivalent offense<\/span> of another state, the United States, or any foreign jurisdiction, or who has been found by clear and convincing evidence<\/span> to have engaged in the conduct prohibited by subsection A of § 18.2-61<\/a>, § 18.2-63<\/a>, or subsection B of § 18.2-366<\/a>, whether or not the person has been charged with or convicted of the alleged violation, when the child who is the subject of the petition<\/span> was conceived as a result of such violation or conduct. The authority of the juvenile court<\/span> to consider a petition<\/span> involving the custody<\/span> of a child shall not be proscribed or limited where the child has previously been awarded to the custody<\/span> of a local board of social services. For purposes of this title, a party<\/span> with a legitimate interest shall also include a parent whose rights previously had been terminated, provided that the child whose custody<\/span> or visitation is at issue<\/span> (a) is at least 14 years of age; (b) has had a permanency goal previously achieved by adoption; (c) has had his adoptive parents die or, pursuant to § 16.1-277.02<\/a>, each of such child’s adoptive parents has permanently been relieved of custody<\/span> of such child and each adoptive parent has had his parental rights terminated; and (d) is in the custody<\/span> of a local board of social services, and provided that the parent whose rights had previously been terminated has (1) complied with the terms of any written post-adoption contact and communication agreement entered into pursuant to Article 1.1 (§ 63.2-1220.2<\/a> et seq.) of Chapter 12 of Title 63.2 and (2) maintained a positive, continuous relationship with the child since termination. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

A1.<\/span> Making specific findings<\/span> of fact<\/span> required by state or federal law to enable a child to apply for or receive a state or federal benefit. For the purposes of this subsection only, when the court<\/span> has obtained jurisdiction over the case of any child, the court<\/span> may continue to exercise its jurisdiction until such person reaches 21 years of age, for the purpose of entering findings<\/span> of fact<\/span> or amending past orders<\/span>, to include findings<\/span> of fact<\/span> necessary for the person to petition<\/span> the federal government for status as a special immigrant juvenile, as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(27)(J). <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

B.<\/span> The admission of minors<\/span> for inpatient treatment in a mental health facility in accordance with the provisions of Article 16 (§ 16.1-335<\/a> et seq.) and the involuntary admission of a person with mental illness or judicial certification of eligibility for admission to a training center for persons with intellectual disability in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 (§ 37.2-800<\/a> et seq.) of Title 37.2. Jurisdiction of the involuntary admission and certification of adults<\/span> shall be concurrent with the general district court. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

C.<\/span> Except as provided in subsections D and H, judicial consent<\/span> to such activities as may require parental consent<\/span> may be given for a child who has been separated from his parents, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis and is in the custody<\/span> of the court<\/span> when such consent<\/span> is required by law. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

D.<\/span> Judicial consent<\/span> for emergency surgical or medical treatment for a child who is neither married nor has ever been married, when the consent<\/span> of his parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis is unobtainable because such parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis (i) is not a resident of the Commonwealth, (ii) has his whereabouts unknown, (iii) cannot be consulted with promptness, reasonable under the circumstances, or (iv) fails to give such consent<\/span> or provide such treatment when requested by the judge<\/span> to do so. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

E.<\/span> Any person charged with deserting, abandoning or failing to provide support for any person in violation of law. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

F.<\/span> Any parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis of a child: <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

1.<\/span> Who has been abused or neglected; <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

2.<\/span> Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to § 63.2-903<\/a> or 63.2-1817<\/a> or is otherwise before the court<\/span> pursuant to subdivision A 4; or <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

3.<\/span> Who has been adjudicated in need of services, in need of supervision, or delinquent, if the court<\/span> finds that such person has by overt act or omission induced, caused, encouraged or contributed to the conduct of the child complained of in the petition<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

G.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed by or on behalf of a child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis for the purpose of obtaining treatment, rehabilitation or other services that are required by law to be provided for that child or such child’s parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis. Jurisdiction in such cases shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of that of courts<\/span> having equity<\/span> jurisdiction as provided in § 16.1-244<\/a>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

H.<\/span> Judicial consent<\/span> to apply for a work permit for a child when such child is separated from his parents, legal guardian or other person standing in loco parentis. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

I.<\/span> The prosecution<\/span> and punishment of persons charged with ill-treatment, abuse, abandonment or neglect of children or with any violation of law that causes or tends to cause a child to come within the purview of this law<\/span>, or with any other offense<\/span> against the person of a child. In prosecution<\/span> for felonies over which the court<\/span> has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

J.<\/span> All offenses<\/span> in which one family or household member<\/span> is charged with an offense<\/span> in which another family or household member<\/span> is the victim and all offenses<\/span> under § 18.2-49.1<\/a>.\n\t\t\tIn prosecution<\/span> for felonies over which the court<\/span> has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable cause<\/span>. Any objection based on jurisdiction under this subsection shall be made before a jury is impaneled and sworn in a jury trial<\/span> or, in a nonjury trial, before the earlier of when the court<\/span> begins to hear or receive evidence<\/span> or the first witness<\/span> is sworn, or it shall be conclusively waived for all purposes. Any such objection shall not affect or be grounds for challenging directly or collaterally the jurisdiction of the court<\/span> in which the case is tried. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

K.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed by a natural parent, whose parental rights to a child have been voluntarily relinquished pursuant to a court proceeding, to seek a reversal of the court order<\/span> terminating such parental rights. No such petition<\/span> shall be accepted, however, after the child has been placed in the home of adoptive parents. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

L.<\/span> Any person who seeks spousal support after having separated from his spouse. A decision under this subdivision shall not be res judicata in any subsequent action for spousal support in a circuit<\/span> court. A circuit<\/span> court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction<\/span> in all causes of action under this subdivision. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

M.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 16.1-253.1<\/a>, 16.1-253.4<\/a>, or 16.1-279.1<\/a>, and all petitions<\/span> filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 19.2-152.8<\/a>, 19.2-152.9<\/a>, or 19.2-152.10<\/a> if either the alleged victim or the respondent is a juvenile. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

N.<\/span> Any person who escapes or remains away without proper authority from a residential care facility in which he had been placed by the court<\/span> or as a result of his commitment to the Virginia Department<\/span> of Juvenile Justice. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

O.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> for emancipation of a minor<\/span> pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331<\/a> et seq.). <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

P.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> for enforcement of administrative support orders<\/span> entered pursuant to Chapter 19 (§ 63.2-1900<\/a> et seq.) of Title 63.2, or by another state in the same manner as if the orders<\/span> were entered by a juvenile and domestic relations district court upon the filing of a certified copy of such order in the juvenile and domestic relations district court. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

Q.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> for a determination of parentage pursuant to Chapter 3.1 (§ 20-49.1<\/a> et seq.) of Title 20. A circuit<\/span> court shall have concurrent original jurisdiction<\/span> to the extent provided for in § 20-49.2<\/a>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

R.<\/span> [Repealed.] <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

S.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed by school boards against parents pursuant to §§ 16.1-241.2<\/a> and 22.1-279.3<\/a>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

T.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> to enforce any request for information or subpoena<\/span> that is not complied with or to review any refusal to issue<\/span> a subpoena<\/span> in an administrative appeal<\/span> regarding child abuse and neglect pursuant to § 63.2-1526<\/a>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

U.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed in connection with parental placement adoption consent<\/span> hearings<\/span> pursuant to § 63.2-1233<\/a>. Such proceedings shall be advanced on the docket<\/span> so as to be heard by the court<\/span> within 10 days of filing of the petition<\/span>, or as soon thereafter as practicable so as to provide the earliest possible disposition<\/span>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

V.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed for the purpose of obtaining the court<\/span>’s assistance with the execution of consent<\/span> to an adoption when the consent<\/span> to an adoption is executed pursuant to the laws<\/span> of another state and the laws<\/span> of that state provide for the execution of consent<\/span> to an adoption in the court<\/span> of the Commonwealth. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

W.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed by a juvenile seeking judicial authorization<\/span> for a physician to perform an abortion<\/span> if a minor elects not to seek consent<\/span> of an authorized person<\/span>.\n\t\t\tAfter a hearing, a judge shall issue<\/span> an order authorizing a physician to perform an abortion<\/span>, without the consent<\/span> of any authorized person<\/span>, if he finds that (i) the minor is mature enough and well enough informed to make her abortion decision, in consultation with her physician, independent of the wishes of any authorized person<\/span>, or (ii) the minor is not mature enough or well enough informed to make such decision, but the desired abortion would be in her best interest.\n\t\t\tIf the judge<\/span> authorizes an abortion based on the best interests of the minor, such order shall expressly state that such authorization<\/span> is subject to the physician or his agent giving notice of intent to perform the abortion<\/span>; however, no such notice shall be required if the judge<\/span> finds that such notice would not be in the best interest of the minor. In determining whether notice is in the best interest of the minor, the judge<\/span> shall consider the totality of the circumstances; however, he shall find that notice is not in the best interest of the minor if he finds that (a) one or more authorized persons<\/span> with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides is abusive or neglectful and (b) every other authorized person<\/span>, if any, is either abusive or neglectful or has refused to accept responsibility as parent, legal guardian, custodian or person standing in loco parentis.\n\t\t\tThe minor may participate in the court<\/span> proceedings on her own behalf, and the court<\/span> may appoint a guardian ad litem<\/span> for the minor. The court<\/span> shall advise the minor that she has a right to counsel<\/span> and shall, upon her request, appoint counsel<\/span> for her.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of this subsection shall govern proceedings relating to consent<\/span> for a minor’s abortion. Court proceedings under this subsection and records of such proceedings shall be confidential. Such proceedings shall be given precedence over other pending matters so that the court<\/span> may reach a decision promptly and without delay in order to serve the best interests of the minor. Court proceedings under this subsection shall be heard and decided as soon as practicable but in no event later than four days after the petition<\/span> is filed.\n\t\t\tAn expedited confidential appeal<\/span> to the circuit<\/span> court shall be available to any minor for whom the court<\/span> denies an order authorizing an abortion without consent<\/span> or without notice. Any such appeal<\/span> shall be heard and decided no later than five days after the appeal<\/span> is filed. The time periods required by this subsection shall be subject to subsection B of § 1-210<\/a>. An order authorizing an abortion without consent<\/span> or without notice shall not be subject to appeal<\/span>.\n\t\t\tNo filing fees shall be required of the minor at trial or upon appeal<\/span>.\n\t\t\tIf either the original court or the circuit<\/span> court fails to act within the time periods required by this subsection, the court<\/span> before which the proceeding is pending shall immediately authorize a physician to perform the abortion without consent<\/span> of or notice to an authorized person<\/span>.\n\t\t\tNothing contained in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a physician to perform an abortion<\/span> on a minor in circumstances or in a manner that would be unlawful if performed on an adult<\/span> woman.\n\t\t\tA physician shall not knowingly perform an abortion<\/span> upon an unemancipated minor<\/span> unless consent<\/span> has been obtained or the minor delivers to the physician a court order<\/span> entered pursuant to this section and the physician or his agent provides such notice as such order may require. However, neither consent<\/span> nor judicial authorization<\/span> nor notice shall be required if the minor declares that she is abused or neglected and the attending physician has reason to suspect that the minor may be an abused or neglected child<\/span> as defined in § 63.2-100<\/a> and reports the suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with § 63.2-1509<\/a>; or if there is a medical emergency<\/span>, in which case the attending physician shall certify the facts<\/span> justifying the exception in the minor’s medical record.\n\t\t\tFor purposes of this subsection:\n\t\t\t“Authorization<\/span>” means the minor has delivered to the physician a notarized, written statement signed by an authorized person<\/span> that the authorized person<\/span> knows of the minor’s intent to have an abortion and consents<\/span> to such abortion being performed on the minor.\n\t\t\t“Authorized person<\/span>” means (i) a parent or duly appointed legal guardian or custodian of the minor or (ii) a person standing in loco parentis, including, but not limited to, a grandparent or adult<\/span> sibling with whom the minor regularly and customarily resides and who has care and control of the minor. Any person who knows he is not an authorized person<\/span> and who knowingly and willfully signs an authorization<\/span> statement consenting to an abortion for a minor is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor<\/span>.\n\t\t\t“Consent<\/span>” means that (i) the physician has given notice of intent to perform the abortion<\/span> and has received authorization<\/span> from an authorized person<\/span>, or (ii) at least one authorized person<\/span> is present with the minor seeking the abortion and provides written authorization<\/span> to the physician, which shall be witnessed by the physician or an agent thereof. In either case, the written authorization<\/span> shall be incorporated into the minor’s medical record and maintained as a part thereof.\n\t\t\t“Medical emergency<\/span>” means any condition which, on the basis of the physician’s good faith clinical judgment<\/span>, so complicates the medical condition of the pregnant minor as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her pregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.\n\t\t\t“Notice of intent to perform the abortion<\/span>” means that (i) the physician or his agent has given actual notice of his intention to perform such abortion to an authorized person<\/span>, either in person or by telephone, at least 24 hours previous to the performance of the abortion or (ii) the physician or his agent, after a reasonable effort to notify an authorized person<\/span>, has mailed notice to an authorized person<\/span> by certified mail, addressed to such person at his usual place of abode, with return receipt requested, at least 72 hours prior to the performance of the abortion.\n\t\t\t“Perform an abortion<\/span>” means to interrupt or terminate a pregnancy by any surgical or nonsurgical procedure or to induce a miscarriage as provided in § 18.2-72<\/a>, 18.2-73<\/a>, or 18.2-74<\/a>.\n\t\t\t“Unemancipated minor<\/span>” means a minor who has not been emancipated by (i) entry into a valid marriage entered into prior to July 1, 2024, or lawfully entered into in another state or country prior to being domiciled in the Commonwealth, even though the marriage may have been terminated by dissolution; (ii) active duty with any of the Armed Forces of the United States; (iii) willingly living separate and apart from his or her parents or guardian, with the consent<\/span> or acquiescence of the parents or guardian; or (iv) entry of an order of emancipation pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331<\/a> et seq.). <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

X.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed pursuant to Article 17 (§ 16.1-349<\/a> et seq.) relating to standby guardians for minor children. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

Y.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> involving minors<\/span> filed pursuant to § 32.1-45.1<\/a> relating to obtaining a blood specimen or test results. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t

Z.<\/span> Petitions<\/span> filed pursuant to § 16.1-283.3<\/a> for review of voluntary agreements for continuation of services and support for persons who meet the eligibility criteria for the Fostering Futures program set forth in § 63.2-919<\/a>.\n\t\t\tThe ages specified in this law<\/span> refer to the age of the child at the time of the acts complained of in the petition<\/span>.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, no fees shall be charged by a sheriff for the service of any process in a proceeding pursuant to subdivision A 3, except as provided in subdivision A 6 of § 17.1-272<\/a>, or subsection B, D, M, or R.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding the provisions of § 18.2-71<\/a>, any physician who performs an abortion in violation of subsection W shall be guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor<\/span>.\n\t\t\tUpon certification by the juvenile and domestic relations district court of any felony charge and ancillary misdemeanor<\/span> charge committed by an adult<\/span> or when an appeal<\/span> of a conviction<\/span> or adjudication of delinquency of an offense<\/span> in the juvenile and domestic relations district court is noted, jurisdiction as to such charges shall vest in the circuit<\/span> court, unless such case is reopened pursuant to § 16.1-133.1<\/a>; a final judgment<\/span>, order, or decree<\/span> is modified, vacated, or suspended pursuant to Supreme Court of Virginia Rule 1:1; or the appeal<\/span> has been withdrawn in the juvenile and domestic relations district court within 10 days pursuant to § 16.1-133<\/a>. <\/i><\/a><\/p><\/section>","plain_text":" CODE OF VIRGINIA\n\nJURISDICTION; CONSENT FOR ABORTION (\u00a7 16.1-241)\n\nThe judges of the juvenile and domestic relations district court elected or\nappointed under this law shall be conservators of the peace within the corporate\nlimits of the cities and the boundaries of the counties for which they are\nrespectively chosen and within one mile beyond the limits of such cities and\ncounties. Except as hereinafter provided, each juvenile and domestic relations\ndistrict court shall have, within the limits of the territory for which it is\ncreated, exclusive original jurisdiction, and within one mile beyond the limits\nof said city or county, concurrent jurisdiction with the juvenile court or\ncourts of the adjoining city or county, over all cases, matters and proceedings\ninvolving:\n\nA. The custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child:\n\n 1. Who is alleged to be abused, neglected, in need of services, in need of\n supervision, a status offender, or delinquent except where the jurisdiction of\n the juvenile court has been terminated or divested;\n\n 2. Who is abandoned by his parent or other custodian or who by reason of the\n absence or physical or mental incapacity of his parents is without parental\n care and guardianship;\n \t\t\t\t2a. Who is at risk of being abused or neglected by a parent or custodian\n who has been adjudicated as having abused or neglected another child in the\n care of the parent or custodian;\n\n 3. Whose custody, visitation or support is a subject of controversy or\n requires determination. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with\n and not exclusive of courts having equity jurisdiction, except as provided in\n § 16.1-244;\n\n 4. Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to\n § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or whose parent or parents for good cause desire\n to be relieved of his care and custody;\n\n 5. Where the termination of residual parental rights and responsibilities is\n sought. In such cases jurisdiction shall be concurrent with and not exclusive\n of courts having equity jurisdiction, as provided in § 16.1-244;\n\n 6. Who is charged with a traffic infraction as defined in § 46.2-100; or\n\n 7. Who is alleged to have refused to take a blood test in violation of §\n 18.2-268.2.\n \t\t\t\tIn any case in which the juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent\n juvenile felony enumerated in subsection B of § 16.1-269.1, and for any\n charges ancillary thereto, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be\n limited to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable\n cause to believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the\n juvenile was 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the\n alleged offense, and any matters related thereto. In any case in which the\n juvenile is alleged to have committed a violent juvenile felony enumerated in\n subsection C of § 16.1-269.1, and for all charges ancillary thereto, if\n the attorney for the Commonwealth has given notice as provided in subsection C\n of § 16.1-269.1, the jurisdiction of the juvenile court shall be limited\n to conducting a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to\n believe that the juvenile committed the act alleged and that the juvenile was\n 16 years of age or older at the time of the commission of the alleged offense,\n and any matters related thereto. A determination by the juvenile court\n following a preliminary hearing pursuant to subsection B or C of §\n 16.1-269.1 to certify a charge to the grand jury shall divest the juvenile\n court of jurisdiction over the charge and any ancillary charge. In any case in\n which a transfer hearing is held pursuant to subsection A of §\n 16.1-269.1, if the juvenile court determines to transfer the case,\n jurisdiction of the juvenile court over the case shall be divested as provided\n in § 16.1-269.6.\n \t\t\t\tIn all other cases involving delinquent acts, and in cases in which an\n ancillary charge remains after a violent juvenile felony charge has been\n dismissed or a violent juvenile felony has been reduced to a lesser offense\n not constituting a violent juvenile felony, the jurisdiction of the juvenile\n court shall not be divested unless there is a transfer pursuant to subsection\n A of § 16.1-269.1.\n \t\t\t\tThe authority of the juvenile court to adjudicate matters involving the\n custody, visitation, support, control or disposition of a child shall not be\n limited to the consideration of petitions filed by a mother, father or legal\n guardian but shall include petitions filed at any time by any party with a\n legitimate interest therein. A party with a legitimate interest shall be\n broadly construed and shall include, but not be limited to, grandparents,\n step-grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family\n members. A party with a legitimate interest shall not include any person (i)\n whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either voluntarily\n or involuntarily, except for purposes of this title, as otherwise provided by\n this paragraph; (ii) whose interest in the child derives from or through a\n person whose parental rights have been terminated by court order, either\n voluntarily or involuntarily, or whose interest in the child derives from or\n through a person pursuant to clause (iii), including, but not limited to,\n grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family\n members, if the child subsequently has been legally adopted, except where a\n final order of adoption is entered pursuant to § 63.2-1241; or (iii) who\n has been convicted of a violation of subsection A of § 18.2-61, §\n 18.2-63, subsection B of § 18.2-366, or an equivalent offense of another\n state, the United States, or any foreign jurisdiction, or who has been found\n by clear and convincing evidence to have engaged in the conduct prohibited by\n subsection A of § 18.2-61, § 18.2-63, or subsection B of §\n 18.2-366, whether or not the person has been charged with or convicted of the\n alleged violation, when the child who is the subject of the petition was\n conceived as a result of such violation or conduct. The authority of the\n juvenile court to consider a petition involving the custody of a child shall\n not be proscribed or limited where the child has previously been awarded to\n the custody of a local board of social services. For purposes of this title, a\n party with a legitimate interest shall also include a parent whose rights\n previously had been terminated, provided that the child whose custody or\n visitation is at issue (a) is at least 14 years of age; (b) has had a\n permanency goal previously achieved by adoption; (c) has had his adoptive\n parents die or, pursuant to § 16.1-277.02, each of such child’s\n adoptive parents has permanently been relieved of custody of such child and\n each adoptive parent has had his parental rights terminated; and (d) is in the\n custody of a local board of social services, and provided that the parent\n whose rights had previously been terminated has (1) complied with the terms of\n any written post-adoption contact and communication agreement entered into\n pursuant to Article 1.1 (§ 63.2-1220.2 et seq.) of Chapter 12 of Title\n 63.2 and (2) maintained a positive, continuous relationship with the child\n since termination.\n\nA1. Making specific findings of fact required by state or federal law to enable\na child to apply for or receive a state or federal benefit. For the purposes of\nthis subsection only, when the court has obtained jurisdiction over the case of\nany child, the court may continue to exercise its jurisdiction until such person\nreaches 21 years of age, for the purpose of entering findings of fact or\namending past orders, to include findings of fact necessary for the person to\npetition the federal government for status as a special immigrant juvenile, as\ndefined by 8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(27)(J).\n\nB. The admission of minors for inpatient treatment in a mental health facility\nin accordance with the provisions of Article 16 (§ 16.1-335 et seq.) and\nthe involuntary admission of a person with mental illness or judicial\ncertification of eligibility for admission to a training center for persons with\nintellectual disability in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 8 (§\n37.2-800 et seq.) of Title 37.2. Jurisdiction of the involuntary admission and\ncertification of adults shall be concurrent with the general district court.\n\nC. Except as provided in subsections D and H, judicial consent to such\nactivities as may require parental consent may be given for a child who has been\nseparated from his parents, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing\nin loco parentis and is in the custody of the court when such consent is\nrequired by law.\n\nD. Judicial consent for emergency surgical or medical treatment for a child who\nis neither married nor has ever been married, when the consent of his parent,\nguardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis is\nunobtainable because such parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person\nstanding in loco parentis (i) is not a resident of the Commonwealth, (ii) has\nhis whereabouts unknown, (iii) cannot be consulted with promptness, reasonable\nunder the circumstances, or (iv) fails to give such consent or provide such\ntreatment when requested by the judge to do so.\n\nE. Any person charged with deserting, abandoning or failing to provide support\nfor any person in violation of law.\n\nF. Any parent, guardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco\nparentis of a child:\n\n 1. Who has been abused or neglected;\n\n 2. Who is the subject of an entrustment agreement entered into pursuant to\n § 63.2-903 or 63.2-1817 or is otherwise before the court pursuant to\n subdivision A 4; or\n\n 3. Who has been adjudicated in need of services, in need of supervision, or\n delinquent, if the court finds that such person has by overt act or omission\n induced, caused, encouraged or contributed to the conduct of the child\n complained of in the petition.\n\nG. Petitions filed by or on behalf of a child or such child’s parent,\nguardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis for the\npurpose of obtaining treatment, rehabilitation or other services that are\nrequired by law to be provided for that child or such child’s parent,\nguardian, legal custodian or other person standing in loco parentis.\nJurisdiction in such cases shall be concurrent with and not exclusive of that of\ncourts having equity jurisdiction as provided in § 16.1-244.\n\nH. Judicial consent to apply for a work permit for a child when such child is\nseparated from his parents, legal guardian or other person standing in loco\nparentis.\n\nI. The prosecution and punishment of persons charged with ill-treatment, abuse,\nabandonment or neglect of children or with any violation of law that causes or\ntends to cause a child to come within the purview of this law, or with any other\noffense against the person of a child. In prosecution for felonies over which\nthe court has jurisdiction, jurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether\nor not there is probable cause.\n\nJ. All offenses in which one family or household member is charged with an\noffense in which another family or household member is the victim and all\noffenses under § 18.2-49.1.\n\t\t\tIn prosecution for felonies over which the court has jurisdiction,\njurisdiction shall be limited to determining whether or not there is probable\ncause. Any objection based on jurisdiction under this subsection shall be made\nbefore a jury is impaneled and sworn in a jury trial or, in a nonjury trial,\nbefore the earlier of when the court begins to hear or receive evidence or the\nfirst witness is sworn, or it shall be conclusively waived for all purposes. Any\nsuch objection shall not affect or be grounds for challenging directly or\ncollaterally the jurisdiction of the court in which the case is tried.\n\nK. Petitions filed by a natural parent, whose parental rights to a child have\nbeen voluntarily relinquished pursuant to a court proceeding, to seek a reversal\nof the court order terminating such parental rights. No such petition shall be\naccepted, however, after the child has been placed in the home of adoptive\nparents.\n\nL. Any person who seeks spousal support after having separated from his spouse.\nA decision under this subdivision shall not be res judicata in any subsequent\naction for spousal support in a circuit court. A circuit court shall have\nconcurrent original jurisdiction in all causes of action under this subdivision.\n\nM. Petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant\nto § 16.1-253.1, 16.1-253.4, or 16.1-279.1, and all petitions filed for the\npurpose of obtaining an order of protection pursuant to § 19.2-152.8,\n19.2-152.9, or 19.2-152.10 if either the alleged victim or the respondent is a\njuvenile.\n\nN. Any person who escapes or remains away without proper authority from a\nresidential care facility in which he had been placed by the court or as a\nresult of his commitment to the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice.\n\nO. Petitions for emancipation of a minor pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331\net seq.).\n\nP. Petitions for enforcement of administrative support orders entered pursuant\nto Chapter 19 (§ 63.2-1900 et seq.) of Title 63.2, or by another state in\nthe same manner as if the orders were entered by a juvenile and domestic\nrelations district court upon the filing of a certified copy of such order in\nthe juvenile and domestic relations district court.\n\nQ. Petitions for a determination of parentage pursuant to Chapter 3.1 (§\n20-49.1 et seq.) of Title 20. A circuit court shall have concurrent original\njurisdiction to the extent provided for in § 20-49.2.\n\nR. [Repealed.]\n\nS. Petitions filed by school boards against parents pursuant to §§\n16.1-241.2 and 22.1-279.3.\n\nT. Petitions to enforce any request for information or subpoena that is not\ncomplied with or to review any refusal to issue a subpoena in an administrative\nappeal regarding child abuse and neglect pursuant to § 63.2-1526.\n\nU. Petitions filed in connection with parental placement adoption consent\nhearings pursuant to § 63.2-1233. Such proceedings shall be advanced on the\ndocket so as to be heard by the court within 10 days of filing of the petition,\nor as soon thereafter as practicable so as to provide the earliest possible\ndisposition.\n\nV. Petitions filed for the purpose of obtaining the court’s assistance\nwith the execution of consent to an adoption when the consent to an adoption is\nexecuted pursuant to the laws of another state and the laws of that state\nprovide for the execution of consent to an adoption in the court of the\nCommonwealth.\n\nW. Petitions filed by a juvenile seeking judicial authorization for a physician\nto perform an abortion if a minor elects not to seek consent of an authorized\nperson.\n\t\t\tAfter a hearing, a judge shall issue an order authorizing a physician to\nperform an abortion, without the consent of any authorized person, if he finds\nthat (i) the minor is mature enough and well enough informed to make her\nabortion decision, in consultation with her physician, independent of the wishes\nof any authorized person, or (ii) the minor is not mature enough or well enough\ninformed to make such decision, but the desired abortion would be in her best\ninterest.\n\t\t\tIf the judge authorizes an abortion based on the best interests of the minor,\nsuch order shall expressly state that such authorization is subject to the\nphysician or his agent giving notice of intent to perform the abortion; however,\nno such notice shall be required if the judge finds that such notice would not\nbe in the best interest of the minor. In determining whether notice is in the\nbest interest of the minor, the judge shall consider the totality of the\ncircumstances; however, he shall find that notice is not in the best interest of\nthe minor if he finds that (a) one or more authorized persons with whom the\nminor regularly and customarily resides is abusive or neglectful and (b) every\nother authorized person, if any, is either abusive or neglectful or has refused\nto accept responsibility as parent, legal guardian, custodian or person standing\nin loco parentis.\n\t\t\tThe minor may participate in the court proceedings on her own behalf, and the\ncourt may appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor. The court shall advise the\nminor that she has a right to counsel and shall, upon her request, appoint\ncounsel for her.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, the provisions of this subsection\nshall govern proceedings relating to consent for a minor’s abortion. Court\nproceedings under this subsection and records of such proceedings shall be\nconfidential. Such proceedings shall be given precedence over other pending\nmatters so that the court may reach a decision promptly and without delay in\norder to serve the best interests of the minor. Court proceedings under this\nsubsection shall be heard and decided as soon as practicable but in no event\nlater than four days after the petition is filed.\n\t\t\tAn expedited confidential appeal to the circuit court shall be available to\nany minor for whom the court denies an order authorizing an abortion without\nconsent or without notice. Any such appeal shall be heard and decided no later\nthan five days after the appeal is filed. The time periods required by this\nsubsection shall be subject to subsection B of § 1-210. An order\nauthorizing an abortion without consent or without notice shall not be subject\nto appeal.\n\t\t\tNo filing fees shall be required of the minor at trial or upon appeal.\n\t\t\tIf either the original court or the circuit court fails to act within the\ntime periods required by this subsection, the court before which the proceeding\nis pending shall immediately authorize a physician to perform the abortion\nwithout consent of or notice to an authorized person.\n\t\t\tNothing contained in this subsection shall be construed to authorize a\nphysician to perform an abortion on a minor in circumstances or in a manner that\nwould be unlawful if performed on an adult woman.\n\t\t\tA physician shall not knowingly perform an abortion upon an unemancipated\nminor unless consent has been obtained or the minor delivers to the physician a\ncourt order entered pursuant to this section and the physician or his agent\nprovides such notice as such order may require. However, neither consent nor\njudicial authorization nor notice shall be required if the minor declares that\nshe is abused or neglected and the attending physician has reason to suspect\nthat the minor may be an abused or neglected child as defined in § 63.2-100\nand reports the suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with § 63.2-1509;\nor if there is a medical emergency, in which case the attending physician shall\ncertify the facts justifying the exception in the minor’s medical record.\n\t\t\tFor purposes of this subsection:\n\t\t\t“Authorization” means the minor has delivered to the physician a\nnotarized, written statement signed by an authorized person that the authorized\nperson knows of the minor’s intent to have an abortion and consents to\nsuch abortion being performed on the minor.\n\t\t\t“Authorized person” means (i) a parent or duly appointed legal\nguardian or custodian of the minor or (ii) a person standing in loco parentis,\nincluding, but not limited to, a grandparent or adult sibling with whom the\nminor regularly and customarily resides and who has care and control of the\nminor. Any person who knows he is not an authorized person and who knowingly and\nwillfully signs an authorization statement consenting to an abortion for a minor\nis guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.\n\t\t\t“Consent” means that (i) the physician has given notice of intent\nto perform the abortion and has received authorization from an authorized\nperson, or (ii) at least one authorized person is present with the minor seeking\nthe abortion and provides written authorization to the physician, which shall be\nwitnessed by the physician or an agent thereof. In either case, the written\nauthorization shall be incorporated into the minor’s medical record and\nmaintained as a part thereof.\n\t\t\t“Medical emergency” means any condition which, on the basis of\nthe physician’s good faith clinical judgment, so complicates the medical\ncondition of the pregnant minor as to necessitate the immediate abortion of her\npregnancy to avert her death or for which a delay will create a serious risk of\nsubstantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.\n\t\t\t“Notice of intent to perform the abortion” means that (i) the\nphysician or his agent has given actual notice of his intention to perform such\nabortion to an authorized person, either in person or by telephone, at least 24\nhours previous to the performance of the abortion or (ii) the physician or his\nagent, after a reasonable effort to notify an authorized person, has mailed\nnotice to an authorized person by certified mail, addressed to such person at\nhis usual place of abode, with return receipt requested, at least 72 hours prior\nto the performance of the abortion.\n\t\t\t“Perform an abortion” means to interrupt or terminate a pregnancy\nby any surgical or nonsurgical procedure or to induce a miscarriage as provided\nin § 18.2-72, 18.2-73, or 18.2-74.\n\t\t\t“Unemancipated minor” means a minor who has not been emancipated\nby (i) entry into a valid marriage entered into prior to July 1, 2024, or\nlawfully entered into in another state or country prior to being domiciled in\nthe Commonwealth, even though the marriage may have been terminated by\ndissolution; (ii) active duty with any of the Armed Forces of the United States;\n(iii) willingly living separate and apart from his or her parents or guardian,\nwith the consent or acquiescence of the parents or guardian; or (iv) entry of an\norder of emancipation pursuant to Article 15 (§ 16.1-331 et seq.).\n\nX. Petitions filed pursuant to Article 17 (§ 16.1-349 et seq.) relating to\nstandby guardians for minor children.\n\nY. Petitions involving minors filed pursuant to § 32.1-45.1 relating to\nobtaining a blood specimen or test results.\n\nZ. Petitions filed pursuant to § 16.1-283.3 for review of voluntary\nagreements for continuation of services and support for persons who meet the\neligibility criteria for the Fostering Futures program set forth in §\n63.2-919.\n\t\t\tThe ages specified in this law refer to the age of the child at the time of\nthe acts complained of in the petition.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding any other provision of law, no fees shall be charged by a\nsheriff for the service of any process in a proceeding pursuant to subdivision A\n3, except as provided in subdivision A 6 of § 17.1-272, or subsection B, D,\nM, or R.\n\t\t\tNotwithstanding the provisions of § 18.2-71, any physician who performs\nan abortion in violation of subsection W shall be guilty of a Class 3\nmisdemeanor.\n\t\t\tUpon certification by the juvenile and domestic relations district court of\nany felony charge and ancillary misdemeanor charge committed by an adult or when\nan appeal of a conviction or adjudication of delinquency of an offense in the\njuvenile and domestic relations district court is noted, jurisdiction as to such\ncharges shall vest in the circuit court, unless such case is reopened pursuant\nto § 16.1-133.1; a final judgment, order, or decree is modified, vacated,\nor suspended pursuant to Supreme Court of Virginia Rule 1:1; or the appeal has\nbeen withdrawn in the juvenile and domestic relations district court within 10\ndays pursuant to § 16.1-133.\n\nHISTORY: Code 1950, \u00a7 16.1-158; 1956, c. 555; 1960, c. 388; 1968, c. 225; 1970,\ncc. 232, 600; 1973, c. 440; 1976, cc. 42, 324; 1977, cc. 525, 559; 1978, c. 648;\n1979, cc. 597, 605, 628; 1980, cc. 527, 529; 1981, cc. 454, 475, 488, 491, 501,\n502, 510; 1982, c. 46; 1983, c. 280; 1984, cc. 631, 645, 651, 665, 669; 1985, c.\n270; 1986, cc. 59, 506; 1987, c. 632; 1988, cc. 797, 906; 1989, cc. 368, 733;\n1990, cc. 704, 975; 1991, cc. 511, 715; 1992, cc. 585, 742; 1994, cc. 575, 719,\n813, 859, 949; 1995, cc. 7, 665, 772, 826, 852; 1996, cc. 755, 914; 1997, cc.\n690, 708; 1998, c. 829; 1999, cc. 697, 721, 1028; 2000, c. 830; 2003, cc. 229,\n960, 962; 2004, c. 588; 2005, cc. 716, 839, 890; 2007, cc. 284, 370; 2008, cc.\n164, 201; 2010, c. 402; 2012, cc. 424, 476, 507, 637; 2014, c. 653; 2017, c.\n623; 2019, cc. 27, 412, 631; 2020, cc. 95, 732, 987, 988; 2021, Sp. Sess. I, cc.\n187, 286; 2024, c. 737; 2025, cc. 143, 547.","edition":{"id":1,"name":"2025","slug":"2025","date_created":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","date_modified":"2026-06-21 22:39:22","current":1,"order_by":1,"last_import":null}}