Does the state have mandatory minimum sentences? Yes. Click here to read the Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission's list. The mandatory minimums are in the far right-hand column, and D stands for days, M for months, and Y for years.
Does the state have a sentencing commission? Yes, the Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission.
Does the state have sentencing guidelines? Yes, the “Virginia Sentencing Guidelines.”
If yes, are the sentencing guidelines voluntary/advisory or mandatory? Voluntary/advisory.
Does the state have drug courts? Yes. Click here to learn more.
Does the state have one or more safety valves/exceptions? Yes. Click here to learn more. To learn more about safety valves, read our factsheet, Safety Valves in a Nutshell.
Reports
Recommendations of the Alternatives for Nonviolent Offenders Task Force (2009)
Assessing Consistency and Fairness in Sentencing: A Comparative Study in Three States (2008, The National Center for State Courts)
Helpful links
Governor Bob McDonnell
Virginia Department of Corrections
Virginia Parole Board
Virginia Executive Clemency (pardons and commutations): Requests go to Office of the Secretary of Commonwealth.
Virginia General Assembly (state legislature)
Virginia Court System
Virginia Drug Courts
Want help finding a lawyer in this state? Click here or contact the local association of criminal defense lawyers. You can learn more about how to work with an attorney by reading our answers to frequently asked questions.
Want to search this state’s laws? Click here
Want to find out how a bill becomes a law in this state? Click here
Want to find your state legislative representatives? Click here
Want to work on changing the laws in your state? Learn how through our Citizen Action Kit!
Sentencing/Criminal Justice Reform Groups in the State
ACLU of Virginia
DISCLAIMER: FAMM does not endorse or support and is not affiliated with any of the attorneys, organizations, or sites listed on this page. FAMM cannot guarantee that the laws listed on its website or the content appearing on any of the links listed on this page are accurate or fully up-to-date. Laws change often, and before taking any action in reliance on the information presented on FAMM’s website or on the sites linked to on this page, you should always verify that the information is still accurate or talk with an attorney. If you feel you need legal advice, you should seek the help of an attorney in your state. FAMM cannot provide legal advice, representation, research, or referrals.