WomensLaw serves and supports all survivors, no matter their sex or gender.

Legal Information: Virginia

Know the Laws - By State

Please see below for state-specific laws that might be useful for victims and survivors of domestic violence. This information is written in a Q & A format and is meant to provide you with easy-to-understand information. You can also reach us at our Email Hotline if you have more specific questions.

A brief description of the difference between state laws and federal laws.

Information about protective orders for family abuse, protective orders for an act of violence, force, or threat, and substantial risk orders in Virginia.

Information about custody in Virginia.

Basic information about child support in Virginia.

This page has some general information (not state-specific) about when one parent takes a child out of the state or country without the other parent’s consent.

Basic information about divorce laws in Virginia.

Any tenant who is a victim of family abuse, sexual abuse or another criminal sexual assault may be able to terminate his/her obligations under his/her lease or change his/her locks.

Information about crimes the abuser may have committed in Virginia and victim assistance programs.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, it may be illegal for the abuser to buy or have a gun.

You may have a right to sue an abuser for medical costs, lost wages, and to recover your property.