                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

PROCEEDINGS FOR ENFORCEMENT OF CHAPTER (§ 2.2-3816)

A. Any aggrieved person may institute a proceeding for injunction or mandamus
against any agency that has engaged, is engaged, or is about to engage in any
acts in violation of the provisions of this chapter. Venue for the petition
shall be addressed as follows:

   1. In a case involving a local agency, to the general district court or
   circuit court of the county or city from which the agency has been elected or
   appointed to serve;

   2. In a case involving a regional agency, to the general district or circuit
   court of the county or city where the principal business office of such agency
   is located; and

   3. In a case involving a state agency, including a public institution of
   higher education, to the general district court or the circuit court of the
   residence of the aggrieved party or of the City of Richmond.

B. If the court finds a violation of the provisions of this chapter, the
petitioner shall be entitled to recover reasonable costs and attorney fees from
the agency if the petitioner substantially prevails on the merits of the case,
unless special circumstances would make an award unjust. In making this
determination, a court may consider, among other things, the reliance of the
agency on an opinion of the Attorney General or a decision of a court that
substantially supports the agency&#8217;s position.

HISTORY: 2009, c. 213.