Virginia § 55.1-202 - Spouse not responsible for other spouse's contracts, etc.; mutual liability for necessaries; exception; responsibility of personal representative
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 55.1-202 — Spouse not responsible for other spouse's contracts, etc.; mutual liability for necessaries; exception; responsibility of personal representative, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 55.1-202. Spouse not responsible for other spouse's contracts, etc.; mutual liability for necessaries; exception; responsibility of personal representative
Except as otherwise provided in this section, a spouse shall not be responsible for the other spouse's contract or tort liability to a third party, whether such liability arose before or after the marriage. The doctrine of necessaries as it existed at common law shall apply equally to both spouses, except where they are permanently living separate and apart, but shall in no event create any liability between such spouses as to each other. For the purposes of this section, liability shall not be imposed upon one spouse for health care furnished to the patient spouse who predeceases the nonpatient spouse. No lien arising out of a judgment under this section shall attach to the judgment debtors' principal residence held by them as tenants by the entirety or that was held by them as tenants by the entirety prior to the death of either spouse where the tenancy terminated as a result of the death of either spouse.
Code 1919, § 5134; 1932, p. 22; Code 1950, § 55-37; 1984, c. 504; 1985, c. 202; 2012, c. 45; 2019, c. 712; 2023, c. 798.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 55.1-202
What does Code of Virginia § 55.1-202 cover?
Section 55.1-202 ("Spouse not responsible for other spouse's contracts, etc.; mutual liability for necessaries; exception; responsibility of personal representative") 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 § 55.1-202?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 55.1-202" (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 § 55.1-202 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.