Virginia § 16.1-101 - Proceedings against officer failing to make or making improper return

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 16.1-101 — Proceedings against officer failing to make or making improper return, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16.1-101. Proceedings against officer failing to make or making improper return

If an officer fail to make due return of any execution issued from a court not of record, he may, on motion of the plaintiff and after ten days' notice, be fined from time to time by the judge of such court in an amount not less than five nor more than twenty dollars for each offense. And if an officer make such return upon an execution issued from a court not of record as would, on a motion against the officer, authorize judgment to be entered against him for all or any part of the amount of such execution if the execution had issued from a court of record, the creditor on whose behalf such execution issued, or his personal representative, may, on a motion before the judge of such court after like notice obtain such judgment against the officer, his sureties and others as could be given by a court of record if the execution had issued therefrom. Section 16.1-106 with respect to appeals in civil actions shall apply to such judgment. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section any such officer may be proceeded against as provided in Chapter 16 (§ 15.2-1600 et seq.) of Title 15.2, or a motion for judgment may be brought as authorized in § 8.01-227.

1956, c. 555.

Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 16.1-101

What does Code of Virginia § 16.1-101 cover?

Section 16.1-101 ("Proceedings against officer failing to make or making improper return") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Virginia § 16.1-101?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 16.1-101" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.

How does Virginia § 16.1-101 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.