Virginia § 53.1-133.02 - Notice to be given upon prisoner release, escape, etc

Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 53.1-133.02 — Notice to be given upon prisoner release, escape, etc, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 53.1-133.02. Notice to be given upon prisoner release, escape, etc

Prior to the release, including work release, or discharge of any prisoner, and as soon as practicable following his transfer to a prison, a different jail facility, or any other correctional or detention facility, his escape, or the change of his name, the sheriff or superintendent who has custody of the prisoner shall give notice of any such occurrence, delivered by first-class mail or by telephone or both, to any victim of the offense as defined in § 19.2-11.01 who, in writing, requests notice or to any person designated in writing by the victim. The notice shall be given at least 15 days prior to release or discharge and as soon as practicable following a transfer, an escape, or a change of name. Notice shall be given using the address and telephone number provided in writing by the victim. For the purposes of this section, "prisoner" means a person sentenced to serve more than 30 days of incarceration or detention. Such notification may be provided through the Virginia Statewide VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) System or other similar electronic or automated system.

No civil liability shall attach for a failure to give notice as provided in this section.

1995, c. 687; 2007, cc. 94, 109; 2015, c. 101.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 53.1-133.02

What does Code of Virginia § 53.1-133.02 cover?

Section 53.1-133.02 ("Notice to be given upon prisoner release, escape, etc") 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 § 53.1-133.02?

A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 53.1-133.02" (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 § 53.1-133.02 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.