Virginia § 18.2-338 - Enforcement of § 18.2-331 by Governor and Attorney General

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 18.2-338 — Enforcement of § 18.2-331 by Governor and Attorney General, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 18.2-338. Enforcement of § 18.2-331 by Governor and Attorney General

If it shall come to the knowledge of the Governor that § 18.2-331 is not being enforced in any county, city or town, the Governor may call upon the Attorney General to direct its enforcement in such county, city or town, and thereupon the Attorney General may instruct the attorney for the Commonwealth, sheriff and chief of police, if any, of such county, or the attorney for the Commonwealth and chief of police of such city, or the attorney for the Commonwealth of the county in which such town is located and the chief of police or sergeant of such town, to take such steps as may be necessary to insure the enforcement of such section in such county, city or town, and if any such officers, after receiving such instructions, shall thereafter fail or refuse to exercise diligence in the enforcement of § 18.2-331, the Attorney General shall make report thereof in writing to the Governor and to the judge of the circuit court having jurisdiction over the acts thereby prohibited, and thereupon the Attorney General upon being directed so to do by the Governor, shall take such steps as he may deem proper in directing the institution and prosecution of criminal proceedings, to secure the enforcement of § 18.2-331.

Code 1950, § 18.1-334; 1960, c. 358; 1975, cc. 14, 15.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 18.2-338

What does Code of Virginia § 18.2-338 cover?

Section 18.2-338 ("Enforcement of § 18.2-331 by Governor and Attorney General") 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 § 18.2-338?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 18.2-338" (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 § 18.2-338 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.