                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

VICTIMS, CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY AND SUPPORT PERSONS NOT TO BE EXCLUDED
(§ 19.2-265.01)

During the trial of every criminal case and in all court proceedings attendant
to trial, whether before, during or after trial, including any proceedings
occurring after an appeal by the defendant or the Commonwealth, at which
attendance by the defendant is permitted, whether in a circuit or district
court, any victim as defined in § 19.2-11.01 may remain in the courtroom and
shall not be excluded unless the court determines, in its discretion, the
presence of the victim would impair the conduct of a fair trial. In any case
involving a minor victim, the court may permit an adult chosen by the minor to
be present in the courtroom during any proceedings in addition to or in lieu of
the minor&#8217;s parent or guardian.
		The attorney for the Commonwealth shall give prior notice when practicable of
such trial and attendant proceedings and changes in the scheduling thereof to
any known victim and to any known adult chosen in accordance with this section
by a minor victim, at the address or telephone number, or both, provided in
writing by such person.

HISTORY: 1993, cc. 447, 452; 1994, cc. 361, 598; 1995, c. 687; 1996, c. 546;
1999, c. 844; 2000, c. 339.