Virginia § 8.01-133 - Who shall be defendants; when and how landlord may defend
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 8.01-133 — Who shall be defendants; when and how landlord may defend, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8.01-133. Who shall be defendants; when and how landlord may defend
The person actually occupying the premises and any person claiming title thereto or claiming any interest therein adversely to the plaintiff may also, at the discretion of the plaintiff, be named defendants in the action. If there be no person actually occupying the premises adversely to the plaintiff, then the action must be against some person exercising ownership thereon or claiming title thereto or some interest therein at the commencement of suit. If a lessee be made defendant at the suit of a party claiming against the title of his landlord such landlord may appear and be made a defendant with or in place of his lessee.
Code 1950, § 8-800; 1954, c. 333; 1977, c. 617.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 8.01-133
What does Code of Virginia § 8.01-133 cover?
Section 8.01-133 ("Who shall be defendants; when and how landlord may defend") 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 § 8.01-133?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 8.01-133" (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 § 8.01-133 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.