                                 CODE OF VIRGINIA

APPEARANCE OF PARTIES AND CHILD (§ 20-146.21)

A. In a child custody proceeding in this Commonwealth, the court may order a
party to the proceeding who is in this Commonwealth to appear before the court
in person with or without the child. The court may order any person who is in
this Commonwealth and who has physical custody or control of the child to appear
in person with the child.

B. If a party to a child custody proceeding whose presence is desired by the
court is outside this Commonwealth, the court may direct the party to appear in
person with or without the child and inform the party that failure to appear may
result in a decision adverse to the party.

C. The court may enter any orders necessary to ensure the safety of the child
and of any person ordered to appear under this section.

D. If a party to a child custody proceeding who is outside this Commonwealth is
directed to appear under subsection B or desires to appear personally before the
court with or without the child, the court may require another party to pay
reasonable and necessary travel and other expenses of the party so appearing and
of the child.

HISTORY: 1979, c. 229, § 20-134; 2001, c. 305.